Collection:2-Way Solenoid Valves

2-way solenoid valves stand out for their simplicity and effectiveness. Unlike more complex multi-port valves, 2-way solenoid valves offer a straightforward solution for controlling flow in a binary manner—either allowing flow or preventing it. This simplicity makes them highly reliable and easy to control, often being the preferred choice for applications that require a fast and efficient response to an electrical signal.

The valve can be designed to be normally open (NO), normally closed (NC), or bistable, meaning it remains in its last state whether power is applied or not. This versatility is one of the reasons why 2-way solenoid valves are so widely used across various industries.

Common 2-way solenoid valve applications

• Water and irrigation systems
• Medical and dental equipment
• Fuel and oil dispensing
• Gas control in heating systems
• Air compressors and pneumatic systems
• Car wash systems
• Beverage dispensing
• Chemical processing
• Laboratory equipment
• Industrial automation
• HVAC systems
• Fire suppression systems
• Steam boilers
• Vacuum services
• Sterilization equipment
• Power generation

Selecting the right 2-way solenoid valve

When selecting a 2-way solenoid valve for your application, it is crucial to consider several factors to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Here are the selection criteria to keep in mind:

• Material: The body material of a solenoid valve can significantly impact its compatibility with the media it will control. Common materials include stainless steel, brass, plastic, cast iron, and aluminum.
  • Stainless steel: Durable and rust-resistant, ideal for high heat and clean environments like food and healthcare. It's a long-lasting option but may cost more initially.
  • Brass: Easy to work with and good for general use with water, air, and some chemicals. It's more affordable than stainless steel but not suitable for harsh chemicals.
  • Plastic: Lightweight and resistant to many chemicals, making it suitable for handling acids and bases in low-pressure and temperature settings. Common in medical and water treatment applications, but not for use with heat or high pressure.
  • Aluminum: Light and somewhat rust-resistant, aluminum is good for heat transfer and lightweight applications. It's moderately priced but may not be ideal for very corrosive environments.
  • Cast iron: Strong and able to withstand high pressure, cast iron is used for large systems and is cheaper than stainless steel. However, it can rust or corrode without proper treatment and is heavy.
• Connection size: The size of the valve's connections must match the piping or tubing of the system to ensure a proper fit and prevent leaks.
• Connection type: Connection types can vary from threaded to flanged or push-fit, among others. The choice depends on the system's design and the ease of installation and maintenance required.
• Function: The valve's function is critical—whether it is normally open, normally closed, or bistable will depend on the system's needs and the desired default state in the absence of power.
• Voltage: The voltage required to operate the solenoid must be compatible with the available power supply. It is also important to choose between AC and DC solenoid coils depending on the power supply and performance desired.
• Seal material: The seal material must be compatible with the media to prevent degradation and ensure a tight seal. Common materials include NBR, EPDM, Viton, and PTFE.
• Operation: The operation type—semi-direct, indirect, or direct—will depend on the pressure differential in the system.
  • Direct-acting: Best for low-pressure applications. Direct-acting valves can operate effectively even when there is no pressure differential across the valve. This makes them ideal for systems where the pressure is consistently low or can fluctuate significantly.
  • Indirect-acting (pilot-operated): Requires a pressure differential to operate. Indirect-acting valves, also known as pilot-operated valves, use the pressure differential of the medium to open and close the valve. These valves are suitable for applications with a sufficient and stable pressure differential, as they rely on the pressure of the medium to function correctly.
  • Semi-direct: Works with low or no pressure differential. Semi-direct valves are a hybrid of direct and indirect-acting valves. They can control the flow of the medium like a direct-acting valve but also utilize the pressure differential like an indirect-acting valve when available. This dual functionality allows semi-direct valves to be versatile and reliable in a wider range of pressure conditions, making them suitable for various applications.
• Recommended media: The media that the valve is designed to control—such as air, water, oil, or gas—must be considered to ensure compatibility with the valve's materials and design.
• Pressure: The operating pressure range of the valve must be suitable for the system's pressure requirements to ensure proper operation and prevent damage.