The Solenoid Valve is a modern invention in the valve industry. That is why this article is prepared to introduce it to you. In this post, we will cover the functions of a solenoid valve along with its components, uses, why and where you should use it, etc… So, stay with us until the end.
What Is A Solenoid Valve?
The term “solenoid” refers to an electromagnetic coil. And a solenoid valve is a valve with a solenoid that can automatically control the media flow. To clarify, a solenoid valve is an electromechanical actuator valve that consists of a solenoid and a valve… which is used to control the flow of liquid or gas with electricity automatically.
Types
We can divide solenoid valves into different terms. In terms of ports, there are two types which are 2-way and 3-way. 2-way and 3-way solenoid valves have 2 and 3 ports, respectively. Also, in terms of functions, it has two types which are normally open (NO) and normally closed (NC). Normally open valve remains open while the electricity is off, and the reverse is true for the normally closed one. Further, there are also three types available in terms of operations: direct, indirect, and semi-direct.
Elements
A solenoid valve consists of two separate parts. The lower section is the valve body, and the upper section is the solenoid. Both join with nut and bolt join or sometimes thread joins.
The main components are installed inside the solenoid section:
- There is a coil winding that surrounds the armature. Also, the lead wires connect to that and go out to supply electricity to the valve.
- There’s a spring that joins to the plunger. Both of them are placed inside of the armature. Also, there’s a seal at the bottom of the plunger that sits on the valve seat.
- The plastic cover wraps up the whole thing.
At last, a valve body joins with the solenoid to make it complete. The valve body comes with an inlet and an outlet if it’s a 2-way valve. But if it’s a 3-way valve, then there will be another inlet.
How A Solenoid Valve Works
A solenoid valve has to control (open or close) the media flow and sometimes mix it before flowing. However, it does its job with the help of electricity. Let’s see how.
Since there are two types of solenoid valve (NC and NO) available in terms of working procedure. So, we will discuss both of them.
Normally Closed
In this type of case, the spring forces the plunger to sit on the valve seat and seal the drain when there is no electricity. But when the valve receives electric current… it charges the coil and creates an electromagnetic field. After that, the magnet attracts the plunger to move up. Then the plunger overcomes the spring pressure and moves up. Therefore, the valve seat opens and allows the media to flow.
Again when the power goes off, the magnetic field disappears, and the spring presses down on the plunger to shut off the drain.
Normally Open
The drain in this valve remains open till the electric current comes. This is because the spring is doing the opposite here. The spring pulls and holds the plunger to open the valve seat. When the coil gets the electricity, it charges and makes a magnetic field. But this time, the magnetic field forces the plunger down. As a result, it seals the valve seat and stops the media flow.
Similarly, the magnet vanishes when there’s no electricity, and the spring pulls the plunger up to open up the drain.
Why And Where Use Solenoid Valve
In some situations, it’s not possible to open or close the valve again and again for a long time. That’s where the solenoid valve comes into action. It allows you to control the media autonomously and remotely within a system. Also, the media can be anything like water, gas or air, refrigerant, steam, oil, etc… Moreover, it does the job fast and efficiently.
The use of solenoid valves is spreading rapidly. Here is a short list:
· Home appliances like dishwashers, washing machines,
· Water supply and wastewater treatment
· Air conditioning, compressors, vacuum pumps, and HVAC systems
· Steam boilers
· Oil and gas power plants
· Food and beverage production
· Industrial cleaning equipment
Features And Benefits
Solenoid valves have many great features and benefits that will encourage you to use them.
1 Operates automatically, with no need for human help.
2 You can adjust the response time.
3 Supports almost all types of media.
4 It may seem weak but can tolerate a good amount of pressure.
5 Needs a small current pulse for energy buildup.
6 Specially made of brass that makes the valve more durable.
7 Light and efficient during work.
Buyers Guide
First of all, determine which type of solenoid valve your application needs. Decide whether the normally closed one will be good for you or the normally open one. Also, consider the number of ports. And the valve should be able to endure the pressure and the temperature of your system.
Take the decision wisely while selecting the valve material cause not all materials suit all media. However, it would be great if the valve body is brass. You can read our post “difference between the brass valve and bronze valve” to know why brass is a better valve material. Don’t forget to think of the response time you need and ensure that the valve is certified for your application.
Most importantly, this is a sensitive valve and needs extra care while making. So, please don’t take the risk of buying it from unprofessional manufacturers. Plumberstar is a professional brass valve manufacturer… and produces a variety of solenoid valves with 100% accuracy for your needs. Check out Plumberstar’s solenoid valves and pick up the suitable ones for your application.
To Conclude
I hope you’ve read it all and got a crystal clear idea of solenoid valves. This valve can make your things easier but choosing the right one is important. And we believe you can do it now, don’t you?