Kuhnke & Mixed-Maker Pneumatic/Hydraulic Solenoid Valve Training Kit, ca. 1990s

This is a complete (or near-complete) industrial fluid-power demonstration and training kit, most likely produced for or used in a German-speaking vocational or technical college (Berufsschule/Fachhochschule) environment during the 1990s. The kit is stored in a purpose-built aluminium carry case with machined foam inserts cut to each component's profile, ensuring safe transport between classrooms or training facilities.

The collection centres on transparent acrylic-bodied solenoid valves and manifold blocks that allow students to observe internal spool, poppet, and diaphragm movements in real time during operation. Several distinct valve types are represented: 2/2-way and 3/2-way directional-control valves, a multi-station (4- or 5-position) manifold assembly, and what appears to be a proportional or servo valve with an integrated motor/actuator. Brass compression fittings and threaded ports throughout indicate compatibility with standard pneumatic tubing and hydraulic line connections.

The centrepiece cut-away model — labelled SDI 5002 / PN 0–10 bar / DN 1.0 / 24V DC — is a fully halved pressure-regulating solenoid valve with red-anodised sectioning to highlight internal components: the diaphragm, main seal, valve needle, return spring, and pilot chamber are all clearly visible and intact. This type of artefact is rarely encountered outside institutional disposal sales and is highly sought by collectors of industrial didactic material, engineering museums, and contemporary fluid-power educators.

The Kuhnke M040-F-HS2626/2 (24V DC, 45% ED, batch 9216) is a well-regarded German-made solenoid actuator still referenced in industrial maintenance literature. Its presence with intact wiring loom adds operational and documentary value. Additional components include a group of three stacked solenoid valves with brass body inserts (lower left of case), a small PCB driver/sensor board with BNC-style connector and blue wiring, a compact inline solenoid with yellow-labelled transparent body, and a dark polymer-body actuator/valve unit with visible wiring.

Material: Acrylic (clear sectioned bodies), brass fittings and ports, steel solenoid housings, aluminium carrying case with egg-crate foam interior, copper/bronze actuator components, PCB electronics, rubber seals