For that reason, they are found in many application areas. They are commonly used to shut off, release, dose, distribute or mix fluids. Solenoid valves are the most frequently used control elements in fluidics. By being solenoid actuated, solenoid valves can be positioned in remote locations and may be conveniently controlled by simple electrical switches. An electronically operated solenoid valve is usually used for this purpose. In most flow control applications, it is necessary to start or stop the flow in the circuit to control the fluids in the system.

When the solenoid coil is energized in a normally open valve, the plunger seals off the orifice, which in turn prevents flow. Once the solenoid coil is energized, the resultant magnetic field raises the plunger, enabling flow. In normally closed valves, a plunger return spring holds the plunger against the orifice and prevents flow. Solenoid valves consist of a coil, plunger and sleeve assembly.

A plunger opens or closes the orifice by raising or lowering within a sleeve tube by energizing the coil. Solenoid valve function involves either opening or closing an orifice in a valve body, which either allows or prevents flow through the valve. They are often used to replace manual valves or for remote control. How a solenoid valve works is by controlling the flow of liquids or gases in a positive, fully-closed or fully-open mode. They are used in systems requiring low flow capacities or applications with low pressure differential across the valve orifice. While Direct operated solenoid valves directly open or close the main valve orifice, which is the only flow path in the valve. Pilot operated valves, the most widely used, utilize system line pressure to open and close the main orifice in the valve body. There are various solenoid valve types, but the main variants are either pilot operated or direct acting. The definition of a solenoid valve is an electro-mechanical valve that is commonly employed to control the flow of liquid or gas.

Electric solenoid valve plunger