The use of a solenoid in a valve allows for fully automated control of the flow of media through the valve. The solenoid is an electromechanical system that uses a ferromagnetic core with an electric coil. The core itself has the ability to move and is typically referred to as the plunger.
Opening and Closing
The plunger is used to close off or open up the orifice in the plastic solenoid valve. As the current moves through the coil, it creates a magnetic field. This magnetic field acts on the core, the plunger, which creates a force to pull the plunger to the center, allowing the fluid to flow through the orifice. At the resting position, without the current, the plunger obstructs the orifice, which prevents any flow through the valve.
The Benefits of Plastic
The plastic solenoid valve works in the same way. However, unlike metal valves, the plastic is non-reactive and non-corrosive, providing durability and a much longer life cycle to the valve.
By choosing a very durable plastic with a PTFE coated wetted surface for the valve, the life cycle can be extended even further, even in highly corrosive and high or low-temperature applications.
Typical Applications
It will be easy to find plastic solenoid valve models and options across a range of industries and applications. As mentioned above, they can be used in high purity applications and those with extreme media or operating condition requirements.
They can also be used to mix or distribute liquids and gases in the system. These valves can be designed to have two ports, three ports or even custom configurations for specific port requirements as well as a number of positions. These positions allow for open and closed combinations for optimal mixing and combining all with completely automated valve control.
