A solenoid valve uses an electrical current to create a magnetic field that moves a metal actuator, which opens or closes a mechanical valve. They come in different types and sizes, and are commonly used in factory automation for controlling the flow of liquids or gases.
A solenoid is an electromechanical device that allows an electrical device to control the flow of a gas or liquid. The electrical device causes a current to flow through a coil located on the solenoid valve. This current flow in turn causes a magnetic field which causes a metal actuator to move.
The actuator is mechanically linked to a mechanical valve inside the solenoid valve. The valve then changes state, opening or closing to allow a liquid or gas to flow through or be blocked by the valve. A spring is used to return the actuator and valve to their quiescent state when current flow is removed.
These devices are available in various configurations and sizes. Solenoid valves can be normally open, normally closed or two-way. A normally open one allows a liquid or gas to pass unless a current is applied. A normally closed valve works in the opposite way. A two-way version has three ports; one port is common, one is normally open, and the third is normally closed.
Factory automation makes frequent use of solenoid valves. A computer device running a factory automation program to fill a container with liquid can send a signal to the solenoid valve to open, allowing the container to fill, then remove the signal to close the valve and stop the flow of liquid until the next container is in place. A gripper on a robot is often an air-controlled device. A solenoid valve can be used to allow air pressure to close the caliper and a second valve can be used to open the caliper. If a two-way valve is used, two separate valves are not required in this application.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
