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Solenoid valves are highly versatile devices that very efficiently control the flow of liquids or gases in pipes with minimal energy consumption. Find out how a solenoid valve works and how to choose one.
A solenoid valve contains a coil, or solenoid, which creates a magnetic field using electric current. This magnetic field then moves the valve piston.
A standard solenoid valve has two positions – default and active. The default position can be either "open" or "closed" and is achieved without voltage. To reach the active position, the valve requires electrical energy.
If you want to automate the operation of a solenoid valve, additional sensors and detectors need to be installed on the piping. Typically, this could be a water leak sensor that automatically shuts off the water supply to the pipe upon detecting a leak, thus preventing an accident.
Generally speaking, solenoid valves control the flow of liquid or gaseous media through pipes. These valves can open or close the flow, and three-way variants can even be used for mixing and distributing media or switching flows.
Solenoid valves are thus used in plumbing, air conditioning, irrigation and heating systems, dishwashers and washing machines, cars, and other devices in both industry and households.
Solenoid valves differ in many parameters.
The range of solenoid valves on the market is truly wide, and individual models can differ significantly, whether in terms of their intended use, quality of construction, or technical parameters. Therefore, it is necessary to consider several parameters when choosing.
There are two basic types of solenoid valves – two-way and three-way. A two-way valve has two positions – open and closed. This type is therefore suitable for closed circuits.
A three-way valve has a third position, allowing the flow of media to be redirected from one pipe to another or to mix media from two pipes or, conversely, to divide from one into two pipes. For even more complex applications, multi-way valves exist.
Solenoid valves are further divided into directly and indirectly controlled. Indirectly controlled valves are controlled by the differential pressure between the inlet and outlet, which should be at least 0.5 bar. If the differential pressure is lower, the indirectly controlled valve will not function properly, and a directly controlled model must be chosen. Directly controlled valves are suitable even for small flows with zero pressure.
For the proper functioning of the solenoid valve, the applied electrical voltage must match the coil voltage. Some modern solenoid valves can also be controlled via SMS or WiFi.
As mentioned earlier, solenoid valves typically have two positions, open and closed. One of these is the default, meaning the piston is without voltage in this position. Choosing the default position is important in terms of energy consumption and coil lifespan.
If you need the flow to be mostly closed, choose a so-called normally closed (NC) valve; otherwise, a normally open (NO) valve is the right choice for you.
Solenoid valves are used to control the flow of a wide range of liquids and gases, most commonly water, oil, steam, coolants, and air. Each valve is suitable for a different type of medium, which must be considered when choosing. If you want to install a valve on a drinking water pipe, it must also have the appropriate certifications.
Equally important is to consider the temperature and pressure of the operating liquid in the pipe – improperly chosen parameters can lead to malfunction or damage to the water valve.
Solenoid valves for water are not suitable for liquids with mechanical impurities – these particles can damage the valve seal and cause media leakage or piston failure to close. If there are impurities in the medium, it is essential to install a mechanical impurity filter on the pipe.
Different models of solenoid valves have different types of connections. Ensure that the given connection is compatible with the pipe on which you will install the valve. This could be, for example, a thread or flange in various sizes.
On the market, you will find solenoid valves in stainless steel, brass, plastic, aluminum, or cast iron, with brass and stainless steel being the ideal choice in terms of their lifespan. The manufacturing material of the valve and seal must also be compatible with the medium in the pipe.
The quality of the material and construction naturally affects the price, but more importantly, the functionality and lifespan of the solenoid valve. Therefore, choose solenoid water valves from reputable manufacturers such as Tork, Danfoss, or Peveko. This will ensure worry-free and trouble-free operation of the valve for a long time. We are happy to help you choose the right solenoid valve.
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