In the modern world, automation of water flow control processes has firmly entered our lives. The electromagnetic (solenoid) valve for water is widely used in various 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, it is possible to remotely supply the desired amount of water in a certain period of time. For example, watering systems with automatic water supply, control of heating processes, regulation of boiler facilities and water drainage.
Solenoid valve device
A typical solenoid valve for water, the photo of which is shown on the left, consists of the following main elements:
- solenoid coil;
- coil anchor;
- closing spring;
- solenoid valve disc;
- pilot hole;
- membrane amplifier diaphragm;
- main flow port;
- leveling flow port;
- forced valve opening system using a spring.
Fromwhat are solenoid valves for water made of?
The design of solenoid valves is quite clear:
- valve body and cover are usually made of brass, special polymers, cast iron and stainless steel, as the device operates in various environments, at various temperatures and pressures;
- rubber, rubber, silicone and fluoroplastic are best suited as a basis for creating membranes, seals and gaskets of housings;
- plungers and rods are made from a special magnetic material;
- valve electric coils are located in hermetically sealed housings that protect the device from dust;
- Enamel wire made of electrical copper is used to wind the coils.
Working principle
In a static position, when the coil of the device is de-energized, due to the mechanical action of the spring, the diaphragm or valve piston is in a tight connection with the valve seat. Under the influence of electrical voltage, the solenoid valve opens. This is because the magnetic field generated inside the device draws the plunger into the valve coil.
In the event of a power outage or failure of the remote control, the solenoid valves for water can be used as a normal water tap. To do this, turn the valve in the direction indicated by the arrow by ¼ turn.
Types of solenoid valves
The shut-off solenoid valve for water, depending on the on and off mechanism, is:
- direct action;
- pilot action.
Solenoid valves for direct-acting water are used at low flow rates. The mechanism for opening and closing the valve is as follows: the device is triggered by the force that occurs when connected to the electrical network.
Unlike the previous pilot-acting valve, it closes and opens by means of the energy of the water flow, which is controlled by electrical voltage. This device is used mainly at high costs. It is worth remembering that the differential pressure (0.2 atm) is important for the smooth operation of the solenoid valve.
Depending on the main working position, solenoid valves are divided:
- to normally open - in the absence of a power source, they are in the open state, and when current is applied, they close;
- normally closed - in the absence of electrical voltage they are in the closed state, and when power is supplied they close;
- bistable - capable of switching from one position to another under the action of a control pulse.
Types of induction coils:
- DC - the valve is characterized by a small strength of the electromagnetic field. Used to adjust low flowpressure;
- alternating current - have a large strength of the electromagnetic field. When a large amount of electricity is consumed, the closing speed of the valve increases, which provides a more powerful flow.
Installation of solenoid valves
According to the method of connecting to the pipeline, it occurs:
- flanged solenoid valve for water;
- threaded solenoid valve.
The installation of the solenoid valve should be carried out 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 in such a way that the valve has free access. However, due to its compact size, it is easy to install 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 non-return solenoid valve for water should be mounted taking into account the direction of water flow.
Scope of application
In the modern world, the field of use of solenoid valves is quite extensive. Most often they are installed:
- in industrial production - in systems of automatic flushing of water treatment lines, to maintain the required water level in tanks of the oil and gas, chemical and energy industries;
- in housing construction - when creating a "smart home" system, to control the flow of water in aquariums;
- in the sewer system - electromagneticvalve for hot and cold water with the help of a timer controls the water supply to public sanitary facilities;
- 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 tanks and steam boilers;
- in expansion systems - provide automatic replenishment of heating systems;
- large kitchens - for bakers, coffee machines, brew tanks, etc.
Installation and operation rules
Solenoid valves for water during installation and operation require compliance with certain rules:
- safety rules;
- It is not recommended to carry out installation in which the valve coil will act as a lever;
- installation and removal of the valve should be done only in a de-energized state;
- a filter must be installed in front of the solenoid valve to protect the seat of the device from the ingress of large mechanical elements;
- valve body should not be loaded by the weight of the pipeline, and also take the place of the twisting and bending element of the system;
- the direction of water flow in the pipes must match the indications on the valve body;
- when installing in open areas, electromagnetic fittings should be additionally protected from atmospheric precipitation;
- as a sealant at the junction of the valve body and pipe is recommendeduse fum tape;
- when mounting a flanged valve, use an O-ring or paronite gasket;
- when connecting the device to the electrical network, a flexible cable with a core cross section of at least 1 mm is used;
- valve operation should be carried out in accordance with the operating rules of a particular device;
- once every three months you need to check the tightening of the power elements, as well as clean the coil from dirt and dust.
Main causes of failure
Over 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:
- electric current does not reach the valve - occurs in the event of a cable break from the control panel;
- during normal power supply, the device does not work - the spring may be broken, the solenoid needs to be replaced;
- no click sound when turned on - solenoid coil burned out;
- the hole on which the solenoid is screwed is clogged - the hole needs to be cleaned by unwinding the structure.
Proper installation and compliance with operating conditions ensure reliable operation of solenoid valves for a long time.
