Asco Numatics has introduced the Series 298-398 process valve, a new range of piston-operated valves for steam, superheated water, hot and cold liquids and inert gases. Available for use on positive pressure or vacuum service, the new range of stainless steel bodied valves has been designed to withstand the most aggressive of manufacturing processes. An ATEX 94/9/EC version is also available for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, categories 2GD and 3GD. The range comprises DN15-20-25-32-40-50 actuators in 2/2 N/C or 2/2 N/O and 3/2U styles, with a tapped body G/RP-NPT-RC, or suitable for socket welding. Alternatively the valves are available with DIN, ANSI or JIS flanges. The valves are suitable for a maximum 40bar pressure drop and the balanced design enables them to be used with backpressures up to 40bar. The valves can handle fluids with a viscosity up to 5000cS and temperatures in the range -10C to +250C. The ambient temperature range is from -25C to +180C. Applications include the manufacture of tyres and rubber vulcanisation machines, and industrial processes including industrial autoclaves, foundries, heat exchangers, dyeing machines, laundry, food and beverage, chemical processing and pulp and paper.