3 Questions to Ask Before You Choose a Solenoid Valve
Posted on: 27 May 2022
If you need to install a solenoid valve on a system to control material flow, you need to know certain things before you can source the right type of valve. The answers to the following questions will help you gather the information you need to make the right choice.
1. What Does the Valve Have to Handle?
Solenoid valves do the same kind of job in any application. However, you can't fit any valve and expect it to work. The application you use the valve on—and its substances or materials—affect your choice of product.
For example, you might need to use different valves to control gas, air, chemicals, or oils. You need a valve that can cope with the material it carries without getting damaged.
You should also check whether your valve will work on cold or hot operations. Some valves won't be able to cope with different temperature extremes. Factors such as high-pressure levels or hydraulics might also require a special valve.
2. Do You Need an Open or Closed Flow?
Solenoid valves can control flow in different ways—you can buy open or closed products.
An open valve allows a constant flow. The substance that passes through the valve will flow naturally unless it reaches a certain pressure or flow rate. At this point, the valve will start to close to reduce the flow. In some cases, valves shut down completely at certain points.
A closed valve restricts flow through a pipe or system. Typically, this valve stays in a closed position. However, when needed, the valve will open to allow flow to run unimpeded.
It's important to choose the right flow control for your application. If you choose the wrong valve, it won't meet your operational needs.
3. What Is Your Flow Rate?
Solenoid valves have flow rate settings. These settings tell you how much of a material the valve can handle at any given time. You will need to know your system flow rates before you choose which valve to buy.
If your valve's flow rate is too small for your application, it won't supply the flow you need for your system. It can't deliver at the right rate, so your connected applications might not work.
While it's better to go too big than too small, try not to buy an oversized valve with too high of a flow rate. The valve will be more expensive; you simply waste money you could save by buying the right size of valve.
For more help choosing the right product for your application, ask a solenoid valve supplier for advice.
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