Solenoid valves are robust and reliable and, if installed and maintained correctly, can provide many years service. In this post we will look at actions that can be used to extend the life of your solenoid valve and keep it operating at optimal performance. We will also look at how to identify, resolve and prevent issues that may occur with solenoid valves. 

INSTALLATION
Before installing a solenoid valve into a system consider the following points. Check that the voltage supply matches the allowed voltage of the solenoid coil. With our valves, this can be found on the label on the side of the coil.

Make sure that the pressure of the media that is to pass through the solenoid valve does not exceed the maximum pressure rating of the valve. Pilot operated solenoid valves and assisted lift solenoid valves also have a minimum pressure rating which must be met for the valve to function correctly.  

Ensure that the media is compatible with both the construction material of the valve and the seal material.

Check that the media and ambient temperatures are within the minimum and maximum temperature rating of the solenoid valve. The effect on these temperatures caused by connected or nearby equipment should also be considered before installation..

Ideally the solenoid valve should be installed with the armature tube pointing upwards. This should reduce the risk of any sediment in the media falling into the tube and restricting the movement of the armature.

If the media contains sediment or particles a filter should be fitted upstream of the solenoid valve to prevent contamination of the valve’s components. Impurities entering the valve may damage the internal components and cause the valve to malfunction.

MAINTENANCE
Maintenance of your solenoid valve is vital to ensure that it continues to operate at an optimal level. Regular inspections of the valve’s components should be carried out to check for wear.

Damaged or worn components should be replaced.

Problem Solving and Failure Prevention
Coil Failure

Solenoid coil failure can be caused by a number of factors.

Applying an incorrect voltage to the coil will cause it to fail and may cause the coil to burn out. Electrical surges or spikes may also damage the coil. Burnt out coils cannot be repaired and will need to be replaced. Always check that the electrical supply matches the voltage and frequency of the coil as shown on the coil’s label. Incorporating electrical surge protection into the system is also advised.

Contact with water or other liquids can also damage the coil and cause it to fail. If fitted with a suitable DIN connector the coil has an Ingress Protection rating of 65 but if the valve is to be situated outside or in damp conditions suitable protection should be used. Certain solenoid valves are fitted with armature tube o-rings which help to prevent water ingress between the coil and armature tube. These should be inspected regularly and if damaged or worn should be replaced.

Sediment or other particles entering the valve may cause coil failure. If the particles are allowed into the armature tube, they may restrict the movement of the armature. The coil will continue to attempt to move the armature but, because of the restriction, will eventually overheat. To prevent impurities entering the valve an upstream filter should be fitted into the system. Installing the valve with the coil and armature positioned vertically is also recommended as this reduces the risk of sediment falling into the tube.

Burnt out or damaged solenoid coils should be replaced. This action is very easy with Rotex solenoid valve, that allow the sole removal of the coil from the valve body. Check out more on our website: www.lgmengineering.it

VALVE FAILURE

Valve failure can be avoided if the valve is installed and maintained correctly and is operated within the limits of the specifications.

Identifying the root cause of a failure can be difficult but generally all the correct information are included within the IOM included in the solenoid valve documentation.

LGM ENGINEERING distributes solenoid valve from reliable manufacturers such as  ROTEX, ROSS PNEUMATROL, RSG, Aignep and ACL. Want to know more? Contact us at info@lgmengineering.it, or call us at +39 0295299332