Solenoid valves are essential components in fluid control systems, serving as the gateway that regulates the flow of liquid or gas. These valves operate through the electromagnetic principle where an electric current passing through a coil creates a magnetic field that moves a plunger inside the valve.
Understanding Normally Closed Solenoid Valves
Solenoid valves come in two primary types: normally closed (NC) and normally open (NO). This ‘normal’ state refers to the valve’s default position when no electrical power is applied to the solenoid coil.
In a normally closed solenoid valve, the valve stays closed until the solenoid coil is energized. The magnetic field generated by the coil lifts the plunger, opening the valve and allowing fluid to flow through. When power is cut off, the plunger falls back to its original position due to a spring or the media pressure, blocking the fluid path and closing the valve.
Parts of a Normally Closed Solenoid Valve
A normally closed solenoid valve consists of several key parts:
- Body: This is the outer part of the valve, typically made from durable materials like brass or stainless steel.
- Inlet and Outlet Ports: The inlet port (or ports) allows the fluid to enter the valve, and the outlet port allows the fluid to exit.
- Solenoid Coil: This is where the electric current passes through, generating the magnetic field.
- Plunger or Armature: A movable iron component that is attracted by the magnetic field. The movement of the plunger controls the opening or closing of the valve.
- Spring: In normally closed valves, a spring pushes the plunger back to the closed position when the coil is de-energized.
Applications of Normally Closed Solenoid Valves
Normally closed solenoid valves find usage in a wide range of applications due to their ability to maintain a closed state when power isn’t supplied. Some of these applications include:
- Home Appliances: Many home appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and coffee machines employ NC solenoid valves for precise water control.
- HVAC Systems: NC valves are used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to control the flow of coolant.
- Medical Devices: In medical equipment, such as ventilators and dialysis machines, these valves provide safe and precise control of gas or liquid flow.
- Industrial Processes: From food and beverage production to chemical processing, these valves ensure safe and efficient control of different media.
Choosing a Normally Closed Solenoid Valve
When it comes to selecting the right normally closed solenoid valve, you’ll need to consider several factors:
- Type of Media: Different valves are designed for different types of fluids, including water, air, oil, and corrosive chemicals.
- Pressure and Temperature: The operating pressure and temperature of your system will influence the type of valve you need. It’s essential to select a valve that can withstand your system’s conditions.
- Voltage: Ensure the voltage rating of the solenoid matches your power supply.
- Material: The valve material should be compatible with the media flowing through it. Gould’s valves, for instance, come with robust bronze bodies that can withstand different types of media.
- Flow Rate: Your system’s flow rate requirement should align with the valve’s specifications.
Maintenance of Normally Closed Solenoid Valves (continued)
or unusual noises, and replacing worn-out parts promptly. Remember to always turn off and isolate the valve before performing any maintenance.
Additionally, Gould Solenoid Valves offers a range of 45 different rebuild kits, ensuring you have all the necessary parts at hand to carry out effective maintenance on your valves.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Even with diligent maintenance, solenoid valves can occasionally face issues. Here are a few common problems with normally closed solenoid valves and how to address them:
- Valve Doesn’t Open: This could be due to insufficient power supply to the solenoid, a damaged coil, or an obstruction within the valve. Checking the power supply and coil, and cleaning the valve can typically resolve this issue.
- Valve Doesn’t Close: Possible reasons include a damaged or misaligned spring, debris lodged in the valve, or a worn-out diaphragm or seal. Regular inspection and cleaning, and timely replacement of worn parts, can prevent or address these issues.
- Leakage: Leakage can result from worn seals or incorrect installation. Replacing the seals or reinstalling the valve often rectifies this problem.
Your Partner for High-Quality Normally Closed Solenoid Valves
Choosing the right normally closed solenoid valve for your application is crucial for efficient operation. With decades of expertise in valve manufacturing, Gould Solenoid Valves offers a vast range of superior quality, U.S.-made solenoid valves that suit different requirements.
Our valves come with robust bodies in Stainless Steel, 316 Stainless Steel, or Bronze, with NEMA 1, 4X, 4,5, and 7 coil enclosures and pipe sizes ranging from 1/8” to 3”. We pride ourselves on our large inventory and fast delivery, and we offer custom manufacturing based on your specifications. If you need assistance in selecting the right valve, we’re here to help. Contact us at 800-634-6853 to speak with a solenoid valve expert.
Invest in a Gould solenoid valve and experience the perfect blend of reliability, performance, and quality. Together, we can build efficient, reliable systems that stand the test of time.