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What Is a Solenoid Valve?

In many industrial systems, automated flow control is critical for safety, accuracy, and efficiency.

A common issue faced by engineers and procurement managers is choosing the correct control valve to avoid failures. such as leakage, slow response, or energy waste. One of the most widely used options is the solenoid valve.

This article explains what a solenoid valve is, how it works, its applications, and key specifications that matter for B2B engineering projects.

Definition: What Is a Solenoid Valve?

A solenoid valve is an electromechanically operated valve that uses an electric current (through a solenoid coil) to control the opening or closing of a valve seat.

It functions as an on/off control device for liquids or gases, enabling automated, remote, or timed operation.

Core components

  • Solenoid coil:An electromagnetic coil that generates force when energized.
  • Plunger / armature:Moves up or down under magnetic force to open/close the orifice.
  • Valve body & orifice:Directs the flow of fluid or gas through the system.
  • Seal:Usually elastomeric (NBR, EPDM, FKM) depending on media compatibility.

Buyer tip: Always match seal material with process media (e.g., FKM for fuels, EPDM for water).

How Does a Solenoid Valve Work?

The principle is straightforward: when the solenoid coil is energized, it creates a magnetic field that pulls the plunger upward, opening the valve and allowing fluid to pass.

When the coil is de-energized, a spring pushes the plunger back to seal the orifice, stopping flow. This rapid switching mechanism allows precise control of flow in automated systems.

Types of solenoid valve designs

  • Direct-acting:Coil directly lifts the plunger to open the valve. Best for small orifice sizes and low flow.
  • Pilot-operated:Uses line pressure and a small pilot orifice controlled by the solenoid. Suitable for larger flows and higher pressures.
  • Normally closed (NC):Default state is closed, opens when energized.
  • Normally open (NO):Default state is open, closes when energized.

Engineer’s tip: For high-pressure systems (>10 bar), pilot-operated designs reduce coil power requirements.

Industrial Applications

Solenoid valves are used across multiple industries where fast, reliable, and automated shut-off is needed:

  • Water treatment:Automated dosing, filtration, and distribution systems.
  • Oil & Gas:Fuel supply, compressor skids, safety shut-off systems.
  • HVAC:Chiller and cooling tower flow regulation, condensate drains.
  • Pharmaceutical & Food:Hygienic systems requiring precise dosing and sterilization.

Case example: A water treatment plant replaced manual globe valves with automated solenoid valves, reducing operator intervention by 40% and improving dosing accuracy.

Procurement reminder: Always check IP protection (e.g., IP65/IP67) for coils in outdoor or wash-down environments.

Comparison with Other Valve Types

  • Solenoid vs Ball valve:Solenoids provide faster actuation, while ball valves handle higher pressures and diameters.
  • Solenoid vs Gate valve:Gate valves are manual and better for full open/close isolation, solenoids excel at automation.
  • Solenoid vs Pneumatic control valve:Pneumatics allow modulation, solenoids are best for quick on/off switching.

Buyer tip: For modulating control, consider globe or pneumatic valves; solenoids are primarily on/off devices.

Choosing the Right Solenoid Valve

  • Voltage & power:AC (110/220V) or DC (12/24V) depending on site availability.
  • Body material:Brass (general use), stainless steel (corrosive fluids), plastic (low-cost, non-corrosive duty).
  • Seal material:NBR (water/oil), EPDM (steam/water), FKM (chemicals/fuels).
  • Pressure rating:Verify against line pressure and flow coefficient (Cv/Kv values).
  • Certifications:CE, RoHS, ATEX (for explosive environments).
  • Procurement tip: Always specify duty cycle (continuous or intermittent) to avoid coil overheating.

Experience, Certifications & Warranty (E-E-A-T)

With 40+ years of valve manufacturing experience and supply to 60+ global markets, DKV Valve ensures solenoid valves meet ISO 9001 quality standards and hold CE certification.
Our products are backed by a 12–18 month warranty, covering both manufacturing and material quality.

Call to Action

Looking for reliable solenoid valves for your project? Our engineering team provides technical datasheets, compliance documents, and sample testing to ensure the right fit for your application. Contact us today to request a quote or receive technical specifications.

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