Purpose
This article outlines the procedure for verifying proper operation of the pilot valve assembly on South-Tek industrial units using the Maintenance Menu. This test confirms that each pilot valve is actuating correctly and supplying air as expected.
Safety Notice
This procedure involves removing pneumatic tubing while the system is energized. When actuated, disconnected air lines may move suddenly (“whip”).
Use appropriate PPE, maintain control of all tubing, and ensure personnel are clear of moving lines before proceeding.
Prerequisites
Unit powered on and in a safe state to perform maintenance Access to the Maintenance Menu Ability to safely disconnect and reconnect pneumatic tubing Means to document findings (service report, notes, photos if needed). Be advised, not all units will have the full list of valves below. Reach out to support to determine which valves your system is equipped with.
Test Procedure
1. SV1 / EX2
Remove the tubing from SV1/EX2. Navigate to the Maintenance Menu and actuate SV1/EX2. Verify that air is blowing out of both supply lines that were disconnected. Document your findings. Reconnect the tubing securely.
2. SV2 / EX1
Remove the tubing from SV2/EX1. Actuate SV2/EX1 in the Maintenance Menu. Confirm that air is blowing out of both disconnected supply lines. Document your findings. Reconnect the tubing securely.
3. EQ1 / EQ2
Remove the tubing from EQ1/EQ2. Actuate EQ1/EQ2 in the Maintenance Menu. Verify that air is blowing out of both disconnected supply lines. Document your findings. Reconnect the tubing securely.
4. CV
Remove the tubing from the CV valve. Actuate CV in the Maintenance Menu. Verify that air is blowing out of the disconnected supply line. Document your findings. Reconnect the tubing securely.
5. FV1 and FV2
Remove the tubing from FV1 and FV2. Actuate FV1 and FV2 in the Maintenance Menu. Verify that air is blowing out of the respective supply line for each valve when actuated. Document your findings. Reconnect the tubing securely.
Expected Results
Air should be present at each valve’s supply line when actuated. Lack of airflow, weak airflow, or inconsistent operation may indicate a faulty valve, wiring issue, or upstream air supply problem.
Next Steps if Issues Are Found
If any valve does not respond as expected:
Confirm upstream air supply and system pressure Verify electrical connections and I/O mapping Contact South-Tek Technical Support with documented findings for further guidance