How can I prevent vacuum leakage in my 3-way valve application?

[OpticalDyn]

Hello, I am using a 3 way NC, manifold mount bullet valve from mac. I am finding that with my current setup, the valve leaks vacuum in ports 2 and 3 (I was told this is intentional). For my application, I would like to use two 3-way valves to control vacuum from a reservoir to a suction cup that is intended to pick up a lens. Essentially port 1
(with the mesh) is the only one that is sealed tight. So I use this
port to control the vacuum flow from the reservoir to the suction cup.
Port 2 of the same solenoid is connected to the reservoir. Thus, when
activated, the vacuum will flow from the reservoir through port 2 and
into 1. Once shut off, the vacuum will now seal between port 1 and the
suction cup which is intended.

Additionally, we then use a secondary solenoid to vent port 1 from the
first solenoid to atmosphere when we wish to let go of the lens. The
problem arises that we are using port 2 in the first solenoid for the
vacuum reservoir. The vacuum from this reservoir leaks through ports 2
and 3 (i believe) and depletes the reservoir. We would like to plug
these leaks up so that we do not have to use our vacuum pump.

Any suggestions would be helpful.

I saw somewhere on this forum that the directionality and precise hook up is necessary otherwise the valves will be leaky.

 

[Navin A S]

So, I would suggest double-checking your current setup and making sure that it is all connected properly and in the right direction. Additionally, you could try using a check valve between the reservoir and the intake of the valve to prevent the vacuum from leaking back into the reservoir. Another option would be to use a different type of valve with better sealing capability, like a needle valve.