Lockout Valves with Soft Start, 15 Series Manual Energy Isolation L-O-X® Valves with EEZ-ON®

Product Overview

The ROSS Controls encompasses the 15 Series Manual Energy Isolation L-O-X Lockout Valves with EEZ-ON Soft-Start, a product family that integrates two critical pneumatic machine safety functions into a single compact valve assembly. The L-O-X (Lockout and Exhaust) function provides OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 and ISO 14118 compliant padlock-capable energy isolation during maintenance. The EEZ-ON (pronounced ease-on) function provides controlled gradual pressurization of the downstream pneumatic circuit when the valve is returned to the open position after lockout or routine shutdown.

When pneumatic systems are isolated for maintenance and then re-energized, cylinders and actuators that have shifted position under gravity or opposing loads may move rapidly and unexpectedly as full pressure is restored. This sudden surge creates significant risk of personnel injury from unexpected actuator motion and equipment damage from high-impact loading. The EEZ-ON mechanism eliminates this hazard by restricting initial downstream flow through an internal needle restriction, allowing pressure to build gradually until approximately 50 percent of inlet pressure is reached, at which point the valve automatically transitions to full flow.

The blue operating handle on the series distinguishes it visually from the standard red-handle L-O-X (1287 Series), providing an important color-coded distinction for maintenance personnel. Like the standard L-O-X, the blue handle can only be padlocked in the closed (OFF) position. When pulled to the open position, the EEZ-ON function is active, controlling the initial rate of downstream pressure rise before transitioning to full flow. The valve body is yellow, consistent with all ROSS L-O-X family products.

The Series covers the same port size range as the 15 Series standard L-O-X, spanning Slim-Line (1/4 to 3/8 inch), Modular (1/4 to 3/4 inch), Classic (3/8 to 1-1/4 inch), and High-Capacity (1-1/2 to 2 inch) sub-families. Fluorocarbon slipper seals and 316 stainless steel spools ensure reliable operation across the ambient and media temperature range of 40 to 175 degrees F (4 to 80 degrees C). Integrated 1/8 NPT sensing ports accept ROSS pressure switches and pop-up indicators for zero-energy verification.

Key Engineering Features

• Dual Function: Lockout and Soft-Start in One Valve - Combines OSHA-compliant padlock-capable energy isolation with EEZ-ON gradual pressure buildup in a single valve body, eliminating the need for a separate soft-start valve downstream. Two safety functions, one component, one set of installation connections.
• Blue Handle Color Coding for Soft-Start Identification - The blue operating handle on the series clearly distinguishes it from the standard red-handle 15 Series L-O-X (1287 Series). Maintenance procedures and LOTO written programs can specify handle color to ensure workers use the correct valve type for the application.
• EEZ-ON Gradual Pressurization with Automatic Full-Flow Transition - When the handle is pulled to the open position, the EEZ-ON mechanism restricts initial downstream flow, allowing pressure to rise gradually. At approximately 50 percent of inlet pressure, the valve automatically shifts to fully open, providing unrestricted flow for normal operation. No manual adjustment is required for the transition to full flow.
• Lockable Only in OFF Position - As with all ROSS L-O-X valves, the blue handle can be padlocked only in the closed position. The open position does not accept a padlock, enforcing the fundamental energy isolation principle that lockout occurs only in the de-energized state.
• Yellow Body for Energy Isolation Device Identification - Yellow valve body, consistent with the full ROSS L-O-X product family, provides visual plant-wide identification of energy isolation devices distinct from standard flow control or directional control valves.
• Fluorocarbon Slipper Seals for Reliable Manual Operation - Fluorocarbon seals maintain elastomeric flexibility and reliable shifting across the full temperature range, including after extended periods without actuation in low-cycle maintenance isolation applications.
• Full-Size Exhaust Ports for Rapid Downstream Pressure Relief - Exhaust ports sized equal to or larger than supply ports ensure fast air evacuation when the valve is closed. Threaded ports accept silencers or remote exhaust lines.
• Integrated 1/8 NPT Sensing Port - Every Series valve includes a 1/8 NPT sensing port for the ROSS pop-up indicator (988A30) or pressure switch (586A86 / 1153A30), providing visual or electrical confirmation that downstream pressure has been removed before maintenance access.
• Safety Category 1 and PL c Certification - Certified to ISO 13849-1 Category 1, PL c. Supports pneumatic machine safety risk assessments and energy isolation documentation requirements under global machinery safety standards.
• OSHA and ISO 14118 Compliant Energy Isolation Designation - Designated as an energy isolation device per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 and ISO 14118. Not classified as an emergency stop device. Supports written LOTO programs as the primary pneumatic energy isolation point.

Technical Specifications

General Specifications

Flow Performance Data

Representative flow data for 15 Series L-O-X with EEZ-ON (Series). EEZ-ON operation restricts initial 1-2 flow during gradual startup phase; full Cv values apply after automatic transition to full flow at approximately 50% inlet pressure. Classic sub-family 1/2 inch body example shown with confirmed data.

Certifications & Compliance

Typical Applications & Industries

General Industrial Manufacturing

• Pneumatic press restart safety: After isolation and maintenance of pneumatic presses, the EEZ-ON feature prevents press slides, clamps, or material hold-down cylinders from snapping to their working positions when air is restored. Cylinders move slowly through the startup phase before full pressure is applied, giving operators time to confirm all personnel are clear before full cycle resumes.
• Conveyor pneumatic systems: Material handling conveyors with multiple pneumatically-actuated gates, diverters, and stops benefit from gradual restart after a maintenance isolation. Without soft-start, all actuators restore simultaneously at full pressure, potentially causing product jams, equipment collisions, or injury from unexpected motion.
• Machine tool workholding and clamping: Machining centers with pneumatic chuck, fixture clamp, and pallet shuttle systems benefit from gradual pressure reapplication after setup changes, preventing workpieces from being impacted at full cylinder force before the operator has confirmed correct seating.

Automotive Assembly

• Welding fixture restart control: Body shop welding fixtures with multiple pneumatic clamps, locating pins, and part-present sensors require controlled restart after maintenance entry. The Series L-O-X with EEZ-ON ensures clamps do not snap shut at full force when air is restored, allowing operators to verify component loading before full clamping pressure is achieved.
• Conveyor and transfer line startup: Assembly line transfer mechanisms with pneumatic lifts, rotary indexers, and part transfer arms benefit from gradual restart to prevent equipment damage from shock loading on simultaneous full-pressure actuation of multiple cylinders.
• Paint booth air supply isolation: Air-operated conveyors, paint agitators, and substrate handlers in paint booths benefit from the combined lockout and gradual restart capabilities where repeated LOTO cycles per shift are common during color changes and equipment cleaning.

Food and Beverage Processing

• Filling and capping machine restart: High-speed filling and capping machines with multiple pneumatic actuators for piston movement, cap feeder escapements, and reject gate operations benefit from gradual restart after sanitation shutdowns to prevent product spills, jam events, or nozzle damage from sudden actuator surges.
• Packaging and wrapping equipment: Form-fill-seal machines, case packers, and shrink-wrap systems with intermittent pneumatic bar sealers and pushers benefit from EEZ-ON restart to prevent product crushing or bag failures from sudden high-force sealer actuation before the machine reaches operating temperature.
• Sanitary stainless steel wash-down environments: Select Series variants with stainless steel bodies for food-contact-area installations where daily CIP washdown is performed and the combined lockout and soft-start function supports sanitation protocol compliance.

Woodworking and Furniture Manufacturing

• Panel press restart: Pneumatic flat-bed and laminating presses benefit from gradual platen re-engagement after maintenance or material changeovers, protecting press frames, tooling surfaces, and workpiece edges from impact loading when air is restored at full system pressure.
• Edge banding and routing equipment: Multiple pneumatically-driven hold-down pads, pressure rollers, and trim units on edge banders restart gradually with EEZ-ON, preventing edge material from being pulled or panels from shifting during the initial pressurization phase.
• CNC router and tenoning machine workholding: Vacuum hold-down and pneumatic clamp systems on woodworking CNC machines benefit from gradual clamp restoration after bit changes, ensuring workpiece is secured at controlled force levels before machining resumes.

Plastics Processing

• Injection molding machine restart after maintenance: After mold changes or hot runner maintenance, the series provides gradual reapplication of air to core pull cylinders, ejector assist systems, and mold cooling air blowers. Preventing sudden core pull actuation at full force protects both the mold and the machine operator during initial pressurization.
• Thermoforming machine startup: Thermoforming equipment with pneumatic plug-assist, clamp-frame, and trim-die actuators benefits from gradual startup after sheet loading changeovers or heating element maintenance to avoid shocking the tooling structure.

Printing and Converting

• Web offset printing press restart: Impression cylinders, ink fountain rollers, and blanket cylinder throw-off mechanisms on offset presses use pneumatic actuation that benefits from gradual pressure reapplication after blanket washes or plate changes, preventing sudden cylinder contact that can damage freshly-loaded printing plates.
• Converting equipment startup: Slitter-rewinders, die cutters, and laminating machines with multiple pneumatic tension systems, nip rollers, and blade engagement mechanisms benefit from EEZ-ON gradual restart to prevent web breaks, blade crashes, or roller contact at uncontrolled force.

Ordering and Model Number Configuration

The ROSS 15 Series L-O-X with EEZ-ON model number follows the same structure as the standard 1287 Series, with a Soft Start code in the model number indicating the EEZ-ON mechanism is included. Select sub-family and port size to match line size and flow requirements. For G (BSPP) threads, prefix with D.

For G (BSPP) threads, add prefix D to the model number.

All Series valves include the EEZ-ON soft-start mechanism and are identified by the blue operating handle. Standard 1287 Series (red handle) does not include EEZ-ON.

The EEZ-ON automatic transition to full flow occurs at approximately 50 percent of inlet pressure. No adjustment is available for the transition point; it is set by the internal mechanism.

Sensing port accessories (988A30 pop-up indicator, 586A86 and 1153A30 pressure switches) and multiple lockout device (356A30) are compatible with all Series variants.

For applications requiring piloted on/off control in addition to manual lockout and soft-start, specify the 27 Series L-O-X with EEZ-ON (1290 Series).

Operating pressure limits: Classic and High-Capacity variants are rated to 150 psig (10 bar); Modular to 200 psig (14 bar); Slim-Line to 145 psig (10 bar).

Accessories

Pop-Up Pressure Indicator

Model 988A30. Visual mechanical indicator for the 1/8 NPT sensing port. Button pops up when pressure is present and retracts at zero pressure.

Pressure Switch (EN 175301-803 Form A Connector)

Model 586A86. Contacts close at 5 psig falling pressure. Provides electrical signal for safety PLC integration and zero-energy verification.

Pressure Switch (M12 Connector)

Model 1153A30. M12-connector pressure switch. Contacts close at 5 psig on falling pressure.

Multiple Lockout Device

Model 356A30. Hasp for group lockout. Multiple workers each apply a personal padlock; valve cannot be opened until all are removed.

Exhaust Silencers

ROSS aluminum silencers for Series exhaust ports, rated to 290 psig.

Warning: Silencers must have flow capacities at least as great as the valve exhaust capacity. Clogged silencers increase back pressure and can prevent complete downstream exhaust during isolation.

Related Products & Accessories

• 15 Series Standard L-O-X (1287 Series) - Manual L-O-X without soft-start for applications where gradual restart is not required. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/1287-lockout-valves-15-series
• 27 Series L-O-X with EEZ-ON (1290 Series) - Piloted lockout valve with soft-start for larger port sizes and remote actuation capability. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/1290-lockout-valves-with-soft-start-27-series
• 27 Series Standard L-O-X (1288 Series) - Piloted L-O-X without soft-start for larger flows and remote electrical or pneumatic control. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/1288-lockout-valves-27-series
• Exhaust Silencers - ROSS silencers for L-O-X exhaust ports rated to 290 psig. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/90-silencers
• DM2 Series Double Valves - Redundant safety valves for Category 4, PL e press control and machine guarding. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/dm2-series
• 27 Series Soft-Start EEZ-ON Valves (standalone) - Standalone EEZ-ON soft-start valves without lockout function for soft-start-only applications. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/1290-lockout-valves-with-soft-start-27-series

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the EEZ-ON function and why is it important for machine safety?

A: EEZ-ON (Lockout and Exhaust with Ease-On) is ROSS Controls' trademark name for an integrated pneumatic soft-start mechanism. When the blue handle is pulled to the open position, the EEZ-ON internal restriction limits initial downstream airflow, causing pressure to rise slowly in the downstream circuit. This gradual pressure buildup allows cylinders and actuators that shifted position during isolation (due to gravity, opposing loads, or manual repositioning by maintenance personnel) to return to their working positions slowly and at controlled force, before full system pressure is applied. At approximately 50 percent of inlet pressure, the valve automatically transitions to full unrestricted flow. This automatic transition prevents the sudden high-force actuator motion that can injure personnel or damage equipment when standard valves deliver instantaneous full pressure on restart.

Q: How does the series (L-O-X with EEZ-ON) differ from the 1287 Series (standard L-O-X)?

A: Both series provide identical OSHA-compliant manual padlock-capable energy isolation in the closed position. The difference is what happens when the valve is returned to the open position. The 1287 Series standard L-O-X (red handle) delivers full system pressure immediately when opened. The Series with EEZ-ON (blue handle) delivers a controlled gradual pressure rise before automatically transitioning to full flow at approximately 50 percent inlet pressure. The blue handle color coding distinguishes the two types visually. If an application has cylinders or actuators that could move dangerously on restart after isolation, the series is the appropriate specification.

Q: Can the EEZ-ON transition point be adjusted?

A: The automatic full-flow transition point in the series 15 Series L-O-X with EEZ-ON is fixed at approximately 50 percent of inlet pressure by the internal mechanism design. There is no field adjustment for the transition point in this series. The ROSS 27 Series EEZ-ON and 27 Series L-O-X with EEZ-ON (1290 Series) include an adjustable needle restriction that allows field-setting of the pressure buildup rate. For applications where a specific startup time or pressure buildup rate must be tuned, specify the 1290 Series.

Q: Does the EEZ-ON function affect the exhaust speed when the valve is closed?

A: No. The EEZ-ON restriction applies only to the supply-to-outlet flow path during the opening (soft-start) phase. When the blue handle is pushed to the closed position, the exhaust path (outlet to exhaust port) is fully unrestricted, allowing rapid downstream pressure relief. Full-size exhaust ports sized equal to or larger than the supply port are maintained on all Series variants, ensuring that isolation results in rapid complete exhaust of downstream pressure.

Q: What color is the handle on the series, and why does it matter?

A: The Series uses a blue operating handle, versus the red handle on the standard 1287 Series L-O-X. This color difference is intentional and operationally significant. Maintenance workers trained on written LOTO procedures can confirm they are at the correct valve type before applying a padlock. Safety auditors can identify at a glance whether a valve includes soft-start capability. In plants where both 1287 (red) and 1289 (blue) valves are installed, the color coding prevents accidental substitution of a soft-start valve for a standard lockout valve or vice versa during maintenance.

Q: What is the operating pressure range for the series Classic sub-family?

A: Classic and High-Capacity sub-family Series variants have a confirmed operating pressure range of 0 to 150 psig (0 to 10 bar) based on catalog data for the EEZ-ON variants. Modular sub-family variants are rated to 200 psig (14 bar) and Slim-Line to 145 psig (10 bar). The full standard 1287 Series Classic and High-Capacity valves are rated to 300 psig, but the EEZ-ON mechanism adds a restriction in the supply path that limits the applicable pressure to 150 psig for the Classic EEZ-ON variants. Verify operating pressure requirements before selecting between the 1287 and Series.

Q: What is the temperature rating of the series?

A: All Series 15 Series L-O-X with EEZ-ON variants share an ambient and media temperature range of 40 to 175 degrees F (4 to 80 degrees C), consistent with the standard 15 Series L-O-X. The Fluorocarbon slipper seals maintain elastomeric performance across this range, including reliable manual shifting after extended periods at temperature extremes.

Q: How do I verify that downstream pressure has been removed before maintenance access?

A: Install the ROSS pop-up indicator model 988A30 or pressure switch model 586A86 (EN connector) or 1153A30 (M12 connector) in the 1/8 NPT sensing port on the valve body. The pop-up indicator provides visual mechanical confirmation: the button retracts to flush when pressure reaches zero. The pressure switches provide electrical confirmation with contacts that close at 5 psig falling pressure. Both accessories are standard ROSS catalog items and install directly into the sensing port provided on every Series valve body.

Q: Is the series L-O-X with EEZ-ON suitable as a standalone soft-start valve where lockout is not required?

A: Yes. In applications where the combined lockout and soft-start function is useful but the lockout is not exercised on every cycle (such as systems that restart daily or weekly after night shutdown), the series performs its EEZ-ON soft-start function every time the blue handle is pulled to open regardless of whether a padlock is present. The lockout capability is available whenever needed but does not need to be used on every restart. This makes the series useful both as a dedicated maintenance isolation device and as a safety-oriented startup control valve in applications that benefit from controlled re-pressurization.

Q: Can I use the series in a food processing or washdown environment?

A: The standard Series uses cast aluminum or bar stock aluminum valve bodies with 316 stainless steel spools and Fluorocarbon seals. For food-grade or washdown environments where the external valve body contacts cleaning agents, sanitizers, or process fluids, select the stainless steel body option (316 SS body). This option is available for select sub-families. Consult ROSS for stainless steel body model numbers for the specific port size and sub-family required.

Q: How does the EEZ-ON mechanism compare to using a flow control fitting for startup control?

A: Flow control fittings (needle valves or flow restrictors) placed in the air supply line control the initial stroke speed of one cylinder but do not prevent full system pressure from reaching the outlet immediately. They control actuator speed rather than downstream pressure rise rate. The EEZ-ON mechanism controls the rate of downstream pressure buildup across the entire downstream circuit, allowing all connected actuators and cylinders to experience gradual pressurization simultaneously before full pressure is applied. EEZ-ON also carries Safety Category 1, PL c, SIL 2 certification, which flow control fittings do not. Additionally, flow control settings can be easily tampered with or accidentally disturbed; the EEZ-ON mechanism is integrated into the valve body with a fixed transition point not subject to external adjustment.

Q: What happens if the valve is opened too quickly from the padlocked closed position?

A: The EEZ-ON mechanism activates every time the blue handle is pulled from the closed to the open position, regardless of how quickly the handle is moved. The gradual pressurization is a function of the internal restriction mechanism, not the speed of handle operation. The pneumatic system downstream will receive a controlled pressure ramp regardless of operator technique, as long as the handle is fully pulled to the open position.

Installation & Maintenance Guidelines

• Install the series L-O-X with EEZ-ON as the first valve in the compressed air supply line to the machine or protected zone, upstream of all control valves, cylinders, and actuators.
• Connect inlet (Port 1) to the upstream supply, outlet (Port 2) to the downstream pneumatic circuit, and exhaust (Port 3) to atmosphere via a silencer or remote exhaust line.
• Ensure supply line sizing does not restrict airflow below the valve's minimum operating pressure.
• Do not restrict the exhaust port. The EEZ-ON restriction is in the supply path only; the exhaust path must remain unrestricted for rapid downstream pressure relief during isolation.
• Install the pop-up indicator (988A30) or pressure switch (586A86 or 1153A30) in the 1/8 NPT sensing port and verify functional operation before placing in service.
• For group lockout with multiple workers, install the 356A30 multiple lockout device on the handle.
• Verify that all personnel are clear of actuator hazard zones before pulling the blue handle to the open position. The EEZ-ON soft-start reduces risk from unexpected motion but does not eliminate the need for personnel clearance verification before restart.
• Blue handle is the visual indicator: pushed in equals closed and isolated; pulled out equals EEZ-ON soft-start active then transitioning to full flow.
• Supply filtered compressed air (5-micron filter recommended) upstream of the valve for best service life.
• Do not use the series L-O-X with EEZ-ON as an emergency stop device. It is designated as an energy isolation device only.

Warranty & Global Support

ROSS Controls provides a one-year warranty on all Series L-O-X with EEZ-ON products covering defects in material and workmanship from date of purchase.

Technical support available through ROSS USA at 1-888-TEK-ROSS (1-888-835-7677), Customer Service at 1-800-GET-ROSS (1-800-438-7677), and globally through ROSS offices in Canada, Brazil, Germany, France, UK, India, China, and Japan.

SISTEMA library files for ISO 13849-1 safety calculations are available at rosscontrols.com.

Contact ROSS Application Engineering for system-level soft-start timing analysis and safety architecture integration support.

Download Catalog: https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/documents/331?filename=Energy_Isolation_Manual_Lockout_Valves_with_Soft-Start_ROSS-LOX_EEZON_EN.pdf