16 Key Parameters for Solenoid Valve Selection (With Options and Descriptions)
A solenoid valve is a fundamental automation component that uses electromagnetic force to control the flow of gases or liquids. It is widely used in industrial automation, fluid control, machinery manufacturing, petrochemical, environmental protection, and many other fields. Its basic working principle is: when the solenoid coil is energized, it generates a magnetic field that drives the valve spool to move, thereby opening or closing the valve port; when de-energized, the spool returns to its original position by spring force or medium pressure.
Depending on the structure and operating mode, solenoid valves can be classified as direct-acting or pilot-operated.
In terms of function, they include 2-position 3-way, 2-position 5-way, 3-position 5-way, and other types.
Key selection parameters include cylinder type, valve body material, port size, operating voltage, explosion-proof rating, ambient temperature, power consumption, and manual operation options. Proper selection of a solenoid valve is essential for ensuring system safety, improving operational efficiency, and reducing energy consumption.
| # | Parameter | Options / Description |
| 1 | Cylinder type | 1) Single-acting cylinder; 2) Double-acting cylinder; 3) Special type cylinder |
| 2 | Brand requirement | 1) Manufacturer's choice; 2) ASCO; 3) Norgren (Herion); 4) Bifold; 5) Other specified brands (e.g., KANEKO, SMC, Parker) |
| 3 | Connection method between solenoid valve and cylinder | 1) NAMUR standard surface mounting (flange); 2) Pipe connection (pipe type); 3) Other methods. Pipe connection is universal but costlier; NAMUR flange is restricted to small cylinders but saves cost. |
| 4 | Solenoid valve type (basic function) | 1) 2-position 3-way (3/2 Way); 2) 2-position 5-way (5/2 Way); 3) 3-position 5-way (5/3 Way); 4) Special types. *Single-acting cylinder requires 3/2 way; double-acting can also use 3/2 way to control a 5/2 pneumatic valve.* |
| 5 | Solenoid valve type (normal state) | 1) NC (Normally Closed); 2) NO (Normally Open); 3) U (Universal); 4) Special types |
| 6 | Solenoid drive action | 1) Direct acting; 2) Pilot operated |
| 7 | Operating voltage | 1) 24V DC; 2) 110V AC @ 50Hz; 3) 220V AC @ 60Hz; 4) Other special voltages (24V DC and 220V AC are most common) |
| 8 | Coil housing material | 1) Cast aluminum; 2) Stainless steel; 3) Other materials. Coil and valve body materials should be defined separately. |
| 9 | Valve body material | 1) Cast aluminum; 2) Brass; 3) Stainless steel; 4) Other materials |
| 10 | Valve port size | 1) 1/4" NPT; 2) 1/2" NPT (1/4" NPT is common, 1/2" NPT rarely used) |
| 11 | Electrical interface material / size | 1) 1/2" NPT; 2) 3/4" NPT; 3) M20×1.5; 4) Special interface size |
| 12 | Explosion-proof rating | 1) Dust & waterproof only, no explosion-proof (IP65/66); 2) Intrinsic safety Exia II CT4/6 + IP65/66; 3) Flameproof Exd II CT4/6 + IP65/66; 4) Other types |
| 13 | Power consumption | 1) Standard ~10W; 2) Reduced ≤4.0W; 3) Low ≤2.0W; 4) Other requirements |
| 14 | Manual operation | 1) Manual operator; 2) Manual reset; 3) Other. For SIL-rated devices, consult manufacturer if manual options meet SIL requirements. |
| 15 | Ambient temperature requirement | 1) Normal ambient (no low temp); 2) Not lower than -20°C; 3) Not lower than -40°C; 4) Not lower than -60°C; 5) High temperature (specify); 6) Other special temperatures. Temperature greatly affects model selection and price. |
| 16 | Any other requirements | To be specified as needed |