A further distinguishing feature is the number of port connections or the number of flow paths (“ways”). To the mode of actuation, a distinction is made between direct- valves, internally piloted valves, and externally piloted valves. When de-energized, the plunger or pivoted armature is returned to its original position by the spring action. When energized, a magnetic field builds up which pulls a plunger or pivoted armature against the action of a spring. The actuator takes the form of an electromagnet.

Multiple solenoid valves can be placed together on a manifold.Ī Solenoid valve is a control units which, when electrically energized or de-energized, either shut off or allow fluid flow. The valve can use a two-port design to regulate a flow or use a three or more port design to switch flows between ports. The mechanism varies from linear action, plunger-type actuators to pivoted-armature actuators and rocker actuators. Solenoid valves differ in the characteristics of the electric current they use, the strength of the magnetic field they generate, the mechanism they use to regulate the fluid, and the type and characteristics of fluid they control. With automatic operation, solenoid valves are incredibly useful to engineers as they remove the need to manually operate valves.Ĭan lead to a reduction of energy usage compared to a direct acting valve Solenoid valves are electromechanically operated valves and are used to control the rate of flow in fluid or air powered systems and are quite often just referred to as just ’solenoids’.

The variety of different designs which are available enables a valve to be selected to specifically suit the application in question. They are being used to an increasing degree in the most varied types of plants and equipment. Solenoid valves can be used with fluid power pneumatic and hydraulic systems to control larger industrial valves, fluid power motors or cylinders. Solenoid valves are versatile and can be used to distribute fluids, mix fluids, shut off fluids or release them. The Flow Control team have the knowledge and expertise to identify the correct valve for the desired application.Ī Solenoid valve is used wherever fluid flow has to be controlled automatically. The specification and selection of a valve and its operating protocols is essential to the optimum performance of any valve. The Flow Control Group supply a complete range of Solenoid Valves for a wide range of applications in the water, wastewater, oil and gas and industrial process sectors.

3 way electric solenoid valve for water