What is a solenoid valve

A solenoid valve is a pneumatic product used to control the flow of liquids or gases. It consists of a solenoid coil and a plunger or armature that is activated when current is passed through the coil. When the solenoid coil is energized, it creates a magnetic field that causes the plunger to move, thereby opening or closing the valve. Through this mechanism, solenoid valves can be used in a variety of applications such as controlling the flow of water in a plumbing system, regulating airflow in an HVAC system, or directing the flow of fuel in an automobile engine. Solenoid valves are widely used because of their fast response time, high reliability, and wide range of operating temperatures and pressures

How solenoid valve works

Electromagnetic Coil:

The solenoid valve contains a coil of wire wound around a hollow core, typically made of ferromagnetic material like iron. When an electric current is passed through this coil, it generates a magnetic field.

Plunger or Armature:

Inside the coil is a movable plunger or armature that is attracted to the magnetic field when the coil is energized. The plunger is usually made of a ferromagnetic material, so it moves in response to changes in the magnetic field.

Valve Body and Orifice:

The valve body contains an orifice or port through which the fluid flows. The position of the plunger determines whether the orifice is open or closed. In the de-energized state, the plunger is typically held in a closed position by a spring, blocking the flow of fluid.

Flow Control:

When the solenoid coil is energized by applying an electric current, it creates a magnetic field that pulls the plunger towards it, overcoming the spring force and opening the valve. This allows the fluid to flow through the orifice. When the current is turned off, the magnetic field dissipates, and the spring returns the plunger to its original position, closing the valve and stopping the flow of fluid.

Solenoid valves are commonly used in various applications such as controlling the flow of water in irrigation systems, regulating the flow of gas in HVAC systems, and controlling the flow of air in pneumatic systems. They are valued for their reliability, fast response times, and ability to be easily automated through electrical signals.