Pneumatic Solenoid Valves

A pneumatic solenoid valve, also known as a directional control valve, pneumatic switch valve, or compressed air valve, is crucial for controlling the flow of compressed air in pneumatic systems. These valves are used in automation and control applications to actuate tools, cylinders, and larger industrial valves. RS offers diverse configurations, including various pressure ranges, port sizes, thread sizes, body materials, and mounting types to suit all industrial automation needs.

Available in multiple configurations, our valves cater to specific requirements with options for different thread sizes, actuation types, connection port thread types, and solenoid voltages such as 12 Vdc, 24 Vac, and up to 240 Vac, ensuring compatibility across various industrial applications. For more information, please refer to our comprehensive guide to solenoid valves.

Types of Solenoid Valves

Pneumatic solenoid valves can be categorised based on their mode of operation: solenoid-operated and air-pilot-operated.

Solenoid Operated Valves

Solenoid-operated valves have an electrical coil attached to the valve. A small electrical current sends a signal to the internal spool or poppet mechanism, which opens or closes the valve. Common coil control voltages include 12 Vdc, 24 Vac, 24 Vdc, 120 Vac, and 240 Vac.

Air- Pilot Operated Valves

Air-pilot-operated valves require an external air source for activation. Rather than an electrical signal, these valves employ air pressure applied to a piston or diaphragm to control their operation. This pressure can be managed via an electrical solenoid positioned elsewhere or through an integrated smaller solenoid that is internally air-piloted.

How Do You Mount Pneumatic Solenoid Valves?

Solenoid valves can be mounted on a DIN rail or a manifold. A manifold is a mounting block that allows two or more valves to be mounted in a centralised location. Manifolds can be a single block or modular for easy maintenance.

How Are Pneumatic Valve Configurations Classified?

Pneumatic solenoid valves adhere to a standard numbering system, which reflects their design. This system uses two numbers; the first indicates the number of ports, and the second shows the number of operating states. For instance, 2-way and 3-way valves are common, with options like normally open (N/O) or normally closed (N/C). A 2/2 valve has two ports (in/out) and two states (open/closed), while a 3/2 valve features three ports and two states. Pneumatic solenoid valves typically have two, three or five ports.

What is the Life Expectancy of a Pneumatic Solenoid Valve?

The life expectancy of a pneumatic solenoid valve can vary significantly based on factors such as usage, environmental conditions, and maintenance practices. Typically, these valves are designed to withstand anywhere from 10 million to over 50 million cycles, depending on the valve's quality and the operating conditions.

Industrial Applications of Pneumatic Solenoid Valves

Pneumatic solenoid valves are versatile tools used extensively across various industries due to their reliability and efficiency in controlling airflow and other gases. These valves are fundamental in automation systems where precise control of fluid power is required.

• Manufacturing: In manufacturing plants, pneumatic solenoid valves are used to operate automated machinery, such as assembly lines, which help control the movement and processing of parts swiftly and accurately.
• Automotive Industry: These valves play a critical role in automotive assembly processes, where they are employed to operate pneumatic tools and systems that assemble vehicle components.
• Packaging: In the packaging industry, pneumatic solenoid valves are used in packaging machines to manage the operations of sealing, cutting, and wrapping products, ensuring high-speed and consistent packaging processes.
• Pharmaceuticals: Pneumatic solenoid valves are crucial in pharmaceutical manufacturing to control clean and sterile airflow in processes requiring high precision and contamination-free environments.
• Food and Beverage: These valves control processes in food processing equipment, helping maintain the cleanliness and efficiency necessary for food production while adhering to health standards.
• Robotics and Automation: Pneumatic solenoid valves are also key components in robotic systems, enabling the precise control of movements and tasks in automated setups.

Buying Pneumatic Solenoid Valves: Ordering & Delivery Information for Australia

RS is committed to providing quick and dependable delivery throughout Australia, ensuring that your requirements for pneumatic solenoid valves and other related components like pneumatic fittings and compressor hoses are fulfilled. Whether you need them from industry-leading brands like RS PRO, SMC, Festo, Parker, or Norgren, our delivery services are designed to meet your needs. To learn more about our delivery services and applicable charges, please refer to our Delivery Information page.