Overview and Design
The Festo VAME-XA-Z-19 tie rod (manufacturer ID 8191756) is a compact, precision-machined component intended for use in pneumatic valve assemblies and related actuation systems. With a 19 mm length and a product weight of 10.5 g, it is designed for applications where space is limited but reliability is not negotiable. The tie rod is manufactured from high-alloy stainless steel, providing inherent corrosion resistance and mechanical strength suitable for moderate corrosive environments, as indicated by its corrosion resistance class (CRC) of 2.
The mounting configuration is versatile: it features an internal hexagon (AF 4) with an external M4 thread and an internal M4 thread. This dual-thread design allows for flexible integration into various valve stacks or actuator linkages. The nominal tightening torque is specified at 1.4 Nm with a tolerance of ±15%, giving engineers a clear target for consistent assembly and preventing over-torquing that could damage threads or affect performance.
Material and Compliance Considerations
For procurement and engineering teams, material selection is often a critical factor. The VAME-XA-Z-19 is made from high-alloy stainless steel, which offers a balance of strength and corrosion resistance. This makes it suitable for applications exposed to humidity, washdown, or mild chemical exposure, though it is not intended for severe corrosive conditions (CRC 2 indicates moderate stress). The product is RoHS-compliant, ensuring it meets current environmental directives regarding hazardous substances. Additionally, it conforms to VDMA24364-B1/B2-L for LABS (PWIS) conformity, which is particularly relevant for paint and surface finishing industries where silicone-free and low-emission materials are required to avoid defects in coating processes.
Packaging and Handling
Each pack contains three tie rods, which is a practical quantity for small-scale maintenance or assembly tasks. The product weight of 10.5 g per unit is minimal, reducing shipping costs and making handling easy. The internal hexagon drive (AF 4) allows for secure tightening with standard tools, and the specified torque tolerance helps ensure uniform clamping force across multiple tie rods in a stack. This is especially important in valve manifolds where even pressure distribution is necessary to prevent leaks or misalignment.
Application Scenarios
While the VAME-XA-Z-19 is a simple accessory, its role is fundamental in maintaining the integrity of pneumatic systems. Typical applications include securing valve plates, connecting actuator components, or serving as a structural tie in custom automation rigs. The combination of stainless steel and moderate corrosion resistance makes it a dependable choice for factory floors, packaging lines, and robotic cells where exposure to coolants or cleaning agents is common. The precise thread tolerances and defined torque specification reduce the risk of thread galling, a common issue with stainless steel fasteners, thereby extending service life and minimizing downtime.
Selection and Integration Value
When selecting tie rods for a pneumatic system, engineers must consider not only the mechanical dimensions but also the environmental and assembly requirements. The VAME-XA-Z-19 addresses these by offering a defined torque specification, a corrosion resistance class that matches many industrial settings, and a material that resists degradation. Its compliance with LABS standards is an added benefit for companies operating in the automotive or appliance finishing sectors. For buyers, the pack size of three simplifies inventory management, while the RoHS and VDMA conformity reduce compliance risks. Overall, this tie rod provides a straightforward, reliable solution for maintaining the structural integrity of valve assemblies without introducing unnecessary complexity.