What is a “solenoid-pilot” design?

What is a “solenoid-pilot” design?

A solenoid-pilot directional control valve utilizes a combination of a direct acting solenoid and a pilot valve. The solenoid direct acting valve controls the flow of a pressured media going to the pilot valve. The pressurized pilot media pushes on the pilot piston which creates a force (F=P x A). That force is used to move the plunger in the pilot valve. Flow control occurs via the configuration of the plunger. The action of moving the plunger controls the flow of the media. The advantages of the solenoid-pilot design are high flow capability, high reliability, low power consumption and simplicity of piping/installation as pilot lines are integral to the valve. The disadvantage is that it requires a minimum pressure to shift the plunger.

What is a direct acting solenoid?

Direct acting solenoid valves are used to control the flow of fluid and gas media. The most common types of flow control are opening, closing, selecting different media or diverting a media. A direct acting solenoid flow control valves shifts via an electric coil. When energized, it creates a magnetic field that moves a metal poppet. The direct action of energizing and de-energizing the solenoid controls the flow of the media, turning it on and off. The advantage of a direct acting solenoid is that there is no minimum pressure requirement. The disadvantages are limited flow capability and high power consumption.

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