Electromagnetic valves for water: types and description

In the modern world, automation of water flow management processes has become a part of our life. Electromagnetic valve (solenoid) for water is widely used in a variety of pipeline systems and devices with automatic control. The device is used not only in complex technological processes, but also for domestic purposes. With the help of a solenoid valve, you can remotely deliver the right amount of water in a certain period of time. For example, irrigation systems with automatic water supply, monitoring of heating processes, regulation of boiler facilities and drainage.

The device of the electromagnetic valve

A typical water solenoid valve, the photo of which is shown on the left, consists of such basic elements:

• Solenoid coil;
• Coil armature;
• Closing spring;
• A solenoid valve plate;
• A pilot hole;
• Diaphragm of the membrane amplifier;
• The main flow hole;
• Leveling flow hole;
• Forced valve opening by means of a spring.

What are the electromagnetic valves for water made of?

The design of the solenoid valves is quite understandable:

• The valve body and cover are usually made of brass, special polymers, cast iron and stainless steel, because the device works in different environments, at different temperatures and pressures;
• As a basis for the creation of membranes, gaskets and gaskets of enclosures, rubber, rubber, silicone and fluoroplastic are best suited;
• Plungers and rods are made of special magnetic material;
• The electrical coils of the valves are located in sealed enclosures that protect the device from dust;
• For the winding of the coils an enamel wire made of electrical copper is used.

Principle of operation

In the static position, when the coil of the device is de-energized, due to the mechanical action of the spring, the diaphragm or the valve piston is in tight connection with the valve seat. Under the influence of electrical voltage, the solenoid valve opens. This is because the magnetic field created inside the device draws the plunger into the valve coil.

In the event of a power outage or a remote control panel failure, the electromagnetic valves for water can be used as a conventional tap. To do this, turn the tap in the direction indicated by the arrow by ¼ turn.

Types of solenoid valves

Shut-off solenoid valve for water, depending on the mechanism of turning on and off happens:

• Direct action;
• Pilot action.

Electromagnetic valves for direct water are used at low flow rates. The mechanism of opening and closing the valve is as follows: the device is triggered by the force that occurs when it is connected to the electrical network.

Unlike the previous one, the pilot action valve is closed and opened by the energy of the water flow, which is controlled by an electrical voltage. This device is used mainly at high flow rates. It is worth remembering that for a trouble-free operation of the solenoid valve, a pressure drop (0.2 atm) is important.

Depending on the main operating position, the solenoid valves are divided:

• On normally open - in the absence of an energy source are in the open state, and when the current is supplied, they are closed;
• Normally closed - in the absence of electrical voltage are in the closed state, and when the energy is supplied, they are closed;
• Bistable - are able to switch from one position to another under the action of a control pulse.

Types of induction coils:

• DC - the valve is characterized by a small force of the electromagnetic field. Used to adjust the low pressure flow;
• AC - have a greater strength of the electromagnetic field. When you consume large amounts of electricity, the closing speed of the valve increases, which provides a more powerful flow.

Installation of solenoid valves

By the method of connection to the pipeline it is found:

• Solenoid valve flanged for water;
• Threaded solenoid valve.

Mount the solenoid valve on a pre-cleaned pipeline. It is desirable that the system be equipped with a mud filter. The location in the pipeline should be chosen so that the valve is easily accessible. However, due to its compact dimensions, it is easy to install it even in cramped conditions.

The position of the valve does not affect the operation of the device, so it can be anything. It is worth remembering that the reverse solenoid valve for water should be installed taking into account the direction of the flow of water.

Application area

In the modern world, the field of use of electromagnetic valves is quite extensive. Most often they are installed:

• In industrial production - in automatic washing systems for water treatment lines, to maintain the required level of water in oil, gas, chemical and energy storage tanks;
• In housing construction - when creating a "smart house" system, to regulate the flow of water in aquariums;
• In the sewage system - solenoid valve for hot water and cold with a timer controls the water supply to public plumbing units;
• In the washing system - ensure the normal operation of household and industrial washing machines, dishwashers, car washes;
• In boiler units - regulate the filling of water with tanks and steam boilers;
• In expansion systems - provide automatic replenishment of heating systems;
• On large-sized kitchens - for bakeries, coffee combines, cooking pots, etc.

Installation and operating instructions

Electromagnetic valves for water during installation and operation require compliance with certain rules:

• Safety rules;
• It is not recommended to perform the installation, in which the valve coil acts as a lever;
• The valve must only be installed and removed in the de-energized state;
• Before the solenoid valve, it is necessary to install a filter to protect the saddle of the device against the ingress of large mechanical elements;
• The valve body must not bear the load of the weight of the pipeline, and also take up the place of the twisting and bending element of the system;
• The direction of water flow in the pipes must coincide with the indicators on the valve body;
• When installing in an open area, the electromagnetic reinforcement should be additionally protected from atmospheric precipitation;
• As a sealant in the joints of the valve body and the pipe is recommended to use a tape FSM;
• When installing a valve with a flange connection, use a sealing ring or a gasket made of paronite;
• When connecting the device to an electrical network, a flexible cable with a cross-section of cores of at least 1 mm is used;
• The operation of the valve should be carried out in accordance with the operating rules of the specific device;
• Once every three months you need to check the tightening of the feeders, and also clean the coil from dirt and dust.

The main causes of failure

In time, even the most reliable equipment can deteriorate. The solenoid valve for water is no exception. Breakdowns can be caused by a number of reasons:

• The electric current does not reach the valve - arises in the event of a cable break from the control panel;
• At normal power supply the device does not work - the spring may be broken, replacement of the solenoid is required;
• There is no click sound when turning on - the electromagnetic coil has burnt out;
• The hole on which the solenoid is wound is clogged - cleaning of the hole is required by untwisting the structure.

Proper installation and compliance with operating conditions ensure reliable operation of solenoid valves for a long time.