We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Machinery

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is a Solenoid Valve Actuator?

By Paul Reed
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 13,438
Share

A solenoid valve actuator is a device that can open or close a valve by applying an electrical current to an electromagnet coil, causing a control rod or arm to move. Actuators are used wherever valves are controlled in remote locations or when continuous valve control is needed. Valve actuators are operated by manual switches in a control room, or by control systems connected to sensors in a manufacturing process. The term solenoid refers to the electric coil magnet, or electromagnet, used to control the valve.

Valves are used to control air, water and nearly all other gases and liquids. They can be as simple as a one-quarter turn ball valve used on a water line to complex control valves connected to software monitoring a chemical reaction. Any time a valve needs to be controlled from another location, a solenoid valve actuator can be used.

The solenoid valve actuator contains an electromagnet surrounding a control arm with a magnet attached at the end. Electric power sent to the electromagnet creates a magnetic field around the control arm. The control arm can move because the magnet is attracted or repelled by the electromagnet.

These controls may turn a separate valve stem or wheel, or can act directly as the stem. A spring normally keeps the valve stem closed until the electric field is applied and the valve opens. The amount of valve opening is dependent on the electrical current applied, and control software can be used to move the valve in small amounts.

Gate valves use a flat plate that opens and closes with a geared shaft; the solenoid can control a valve wheel that operates the gate. A ball valve normally requires one-quarter turn on or off, and can be solenoid controlled. Globe valves use a valve stem fitted in a machined seat that can be controlled with the solenoid valve actuator.

Needle valves are used in equipment requiring lower flow rates, using small needle-shaped valve stems controlled by a solenoid. Larger butterfly valves can be controlled to supply water to generators in dams, creating hydroelectric power. Similar valves can control cooling water to chemical processes. Anywhere a valve needs to be controlled rather than simply turned on and off, a solenoid valve actuator may be used.

Electric circuits can create problems in explosive environments, or when flammable chemicals are present. Air pressure can be used to control valves in these environments. Not considered solenoids because of the lack of an electric current, pneumatic or air actuators can be controlled similarly to a solenoid valve actuator.

Share
About Mechanics is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.aboutmechanics.com/what-is-a-solenoid-valve-actuator.htm
Copy this link
About Mechanics, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

About Mechanics, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.