External factors such as environmental conditions and fluid contaminants can affect the operation of solenoid valves, while internal factors include natural wear and electrical faults. Regular maintenance is necessary, and design specifications such as valve sizing and media compatibility should be considered.
There are several internal and external factors that can affect the operation of the solenoid valve. Some common external factors include the environmental conditions to which the unit is subjected and the fluids passing through the valve. Contaminants in fluids and adverse environmental conditions can shorten the operating life of a solenoid valve. Internal factors include natural wear issues with the solenoid, electrical connections and faults in the valve body. The design specifications of a unit, such as valve sizing, can also affect the operation of the solenoid valve.
Solenoid valves are components that use an electrical signal to regulate the flow of various liquids and gases. These components consist of a solenoid, activated by an electric current, and a valve body activated by the solenoid. Proper operation of the solenoid valve typically requires regular maintenance, although some of these components are inexpensive enough that they can simply be replaced when they stop working properly.
Many of the factors that can influence the operation of the solenoid valve are of an external nature. The environmental conditions to which a valve is exposed can play a large role in causing premature failure or malfunction. Adverse environmental conditions, such as heat or exposure to caustic elements, often cause a dramatic reduction in the operating life of a solenoid valve. Contaminants in the media that a valve is responsible for controlling can also cause problems, such as staying open or closed.
Environmental conditions often lead to electrical solenoid failure, although these components can also fail naturally over time. If the coil in a solenoid is blown, or the slug is stuck, the valve also typically won’t open properly. When an electrical connection fails, this will also prevent the solenoid from functioning and, in turn, prevent the valve from opening or closing.
Several design factors can be examined to help determine whether or not the operation of the solenoid valve will be affected by various internal and external stresses. Key features that are typically considered include valve flow factor, fluid compatibility, temperature and pressure ratings, and process fitting. Valve sizing is important to consider, as too low or high a flow factor will adversely affect the operation of the solenoid valve. Media compatibility can also play an important role in the operation of a solenoid valve, as a drive that is incompatible with the media running through it will tend to fail very quickly. Temperature and pressure ratings play similar roles, as it is important that a solenoid valve is robust enough to withstand the conditions to which it is subjected.
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