Clippard JPC-3FPN Pilot-Operated Check Valve, 1/8 NPT

The Clippard JPC-3FPN is a high-flow pilot-operated check valve for pneumatic circuits. It works as a standard check valve, but an air pilot signal opens it to allow free flow in the normally checked direction. This model has 1/8 inch NPT at port 1 and port 2, a #10-32 pilot port 3 and a #10-32 auxiliary port 2 that is plugged as supplied.

Holding a cylinder in position

The bulletin draws the key use: a cylinder held at any point along its stroke, because the check valve traps air until a remote pilot signal releases it. Clippard lists three sample circuits: an air-loss lock that stops a cylinder moving if pressure is lost, a detented lock position adjustment where integrating JPCs locks a cylinder when a signal is absent, and a simplified position adjustment using its TV-4 3-position toggle valve. The high-flow poppet design gives low pressure drop at the cylinder port, the side port rotates for positioning, and the auxiliary port eases plumbing and reduces fittings.

Technical specification

Two charts are printed: minimum pilot-to-supply pressure, which rises with supply pressure on a graph spanning 15 to 40 psig of pilot over 0 to 100 psig supply, and flow from port 1 to port 2 against supply pressure, where the JPC-3 passes more than the JPC-2. For pilot-to-supply above 100 psig, Clippard asks to be contacted.

Understanding the JPC-3FPN code

The data sheet shows the JPC-2 size with #10-32 ports and the JPC-3 size with 1/8 inch NPT. Within the JPC-3 group the code letters describe port styles: FPN, FPF and FQF differ in the thread arrangement on ports 1 and 2, and the data sheet prints a separate drawing for each, so read the dimension for the exact suffix before laying out pipework. For specialty options such as seal materials, manual override or specific pilot-to-supply ratios, consult the factory.

Installation guidance

Connect port 1 to the cylinder side, port 2 to the supply side and the pilot to a signal that is pressurised whenever free flow is wanted. Check that the pilot pressure at your supply value sits above the minimum on the chart, otherwise the valve may not release. Plug the auxiliary port if unused, as supplied. Because it is a poppet valve, keep media clean to protect the seat.

Where it fits

Clippard’s own examples are locking a cylinder in position on air loss, holding it at any point along its stroke, and detented or momentary position adjustment. Use only within the 230 F and 300 psig limits and note the data sheet prints no hazardous-area approvals. A related Clippard bulletin covers multi check valves; see also the Check Valves range.

Dimensions and option details

The data sheet prints a separate outline drawing for each model, with overall lengths between about 35 mm and 51 mm across the five listed codes, and the pilot port above the body. The corrosion-resistant versions use an ENP brass body, listed as CR-JPC-3FPN, CR-JPC-3FPF and CR-JPC-3FQF. Specialty options such as other seal materials, manual override or particular pilot-to-supply ratios are by consultation with the factory, so state the ratio you need when enquiring.

The bulletin draws the family with two circuit symbols: the pilot-operated check valve, where a pilot signal at port 3 opens the checked path between port 1 (cylinder port) and port 2, and a high-flow 2-way valve arrangement. Reading the symbol correctly matters during commissioning, because reversing port 1 and port 2 turns a holding function into a free-flow one. Clippard describes the aim as a reliable way to check flow in one direction with the ability to signal free flow remotely, all in a single valve that is easy to connect.

JPC-3FPN questions

What does a pilot-operated check valve do?

It blocks flow in one direction like a check valve until an air pilot signal opens it for free flow.

What are the JPC-3FPN pressure and temperature limits?

0 to 300 psig and 32 to 230 F (0 to 110 C).

What are the port sizes?

1/8 inch NPT at ports 1 and 2, #10-32 pilot port 3 and a plugged #10-32 auxiliary port.

What are the wetted materials?

ENP brass, anodized aluminum and stainless steel with Buna-N seals.

Is there a corrosion-resistant version?

Clippard lists CR-JPC-3FPN with an ENP brass body.

Using it in Oman and the GCC

Pilot-operated check valves are used in the region on automation equipment, packaging machines, lifting devices and test rigs to hold cylinders in position when the valve is not piloted. They are not a replacement for a safety-rated holding device, so where a load could fall, the circuit should be designed to the applicable machine safety rules. Supply clean, dry, filtered air, as water and dust in compressed air are common in hot and humid coastal plants and can affect the sealing of small valves.

Mount the valve as close to the cylinder as possible, so the trapped air volume is small and the cylinder holds its position more firmly.

Check for leaks during routine maintenance.

Information to send with an enquiry

• Port sizes and pilot connection
• Pressure and application
• Quantity

Related Clippard products: Clippard NPV3-1C-05-24 Solenoid Pinch Valve, 24 VDC, Clippard EC-P-10-09A0 EVP Proportional Valve, 2.7 l/min, Clippard EV-3M-12 3-Way Miniature Solenoid Valve, 12 VDC, Clippard SCPV-1-3 Stepper-Controlled Proportional Needle Valve, Clippard DR-2 Precision Miniature Pressure Regulator and Clippard MAR-1PK-3 Miniature Pressure Regulator, 10-30 psig.

Documents and quotation

The JPC data sheet can be downloaded from this page. Seven Star LLC supplies Clippard valves from Muscat; send the part number and quantity for a quotation.