How Solenoid Control Valves Work

Definition

Solenoid control valves are electromagnetic valves that are used with both gas and liquid, and are controlled by the starting and stopping of electrical current through a solenoid. A solenoid is the coil in a wire that changes the state of the value. Solenoid control valves dictate the flow of water or air, and are used in fluidics. Fluidics uses fluid to perform both digital and analog operations. Solenoid control valves are designed to release, distribute or mix different fluids.

Function

Solenoid control valves are broken up into two main parts; they are the solenoid and the valves. The solenoid works to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy. This allows the valves to open and control mechanically. Solenoid control valves have metal seals that allow the electrical interfaces to be easily controlled. When the valves are not activated, a spring is used to hold the valve open or closed.

Process

Solenoid control valves begin in a closed state, and water begins to enter an elastic diaphragm. The water pushes a spring in the elastic diaphragm down. The diaphragm has a pinhole in its center, which slowly allows water to flow through it. The water fills the other side of the diaphragm, so water pressure is now the same on each side. Even though the pressure is the same, the force is higher on the upper side, and that forces the valves to shut off the incoming pressure. This results in the control valves being tightly shut to any water flow. The solenoid control valves are activated when the pin is forced upward from the force of the solenoid current. The chamber's water flows through the conduit, and onto the output side of the valve. The chamber's pressure will begin to drop and lift the diaphragm's main valve, allowing water to flow through.