1. Definition and Function
• Definition: A valve that uses an electromagnet to generate magnetic force when energized/de-energized, driving a spool or poppet to slide within the valve body and alter fluid flow direction.
• Core Functions:
• Controls the flow direction of hydraulic oil or compressed air (e.g., Port A → Port B, or Port A → Tank T for pressure relief).
• Enables start/stop, direction reversal, or pressure holding of actuators (e.g., hydraulic/pneumatic cylinders).
2. Structural Components
• Electromagnet Section:
• Coil (Solenoid Coil): Generates a magnetic field when powered.
• Armature: Attracted by the magnetic field to move the valve core.
• Valve Body Section:
• Spool/Poppet: Slides or moves inside the valve body to control oil passage connections.
• Valve Body: Contains multiple internal channels and ports (e.g., P, A, B, T).
• Return Spring: Pushes the spool back to its original position when de-energized.
3. Working Principle
1. Energized State:
• The solenoid coil is powered, creating a magnetic field that attracts the armature.
• The armature moves the spool, altering oil passage connections (e.g., P → A, B → T).
2. De-energized State:
• The magnetic field disappears, and the return spring pushes the spool back to its initial position, restoring default oil paths (e.g., P → B, A → T).
3. Dual-Solenoid Design:
• Some valves feature solenoids on both sides for bidirectional control (e.g., left solenoid energized: P → A; right solenoid energized: P → B).
4. Classification and Types
• By Control Method:
• Direct-Acting: The solenoid directly drives the spool, suitable for low-flow, low-pressure systems.
• Pilot-Operated: Uses pilot pressure to control the main spool, ideal for high-flow, high-pressure applications.
• By Spool Structure:
• Spool Valve: Cylindrical spool slides axially to change oil paths.
• Poppet Valve: Conical spool provides better sealing for high-pressure use.
• By Positions and Ports:
• 2/2 (Two-Position, Two-Port): Two positions, two ports (e.g., normally closed/open).
• 2/3 (Two-Position, Three-Port): Two positions, three ports (e.g., P, A, T).
• 3/4 (Three-Position, Four-Port): Three positions, four ports (e.g., neutral holding, direction reversal).
• 3/5 (Three-Position, Five-Port): Common in pneumatic systems for dual-pressure control.
5. Performance Parameters
• Rated Pressure: Maximum working pressure the valve can withstand (e.g., 35 MPa).
• Flow Range: Maximum allowable flow rate (e.g., 60 L/min).
• Response Time: Time from energization to full spool movement (typically milliseconds to tens of milliseconds).
• Voltage Specifications: Solenoid operating voltage (e.g., DC12V, DC24V, AC220V).
• Sealing Type: Spool-to-body sealing method (e.g., metal-to-metal, soft seal).
6. Application Scenarios
• Hydraulic Systems:
• Directional control of hydraulic cylinders in excavators and cranes.
• Mold opening/closing in injection molding and die-casting machines.
• Hydraulic power transmission in industrial automation.
• Pneumatic Systems:
• Cylinder extension/retraction in automated production lines.
• Vacuum suction cup gripping/releasing.
• Air compressor pressure regulation.
7. Selection Considerations
• Flow/Pressure Matching: Ensure rated flow and pressure ≥ system requirements.
• Response Speed: High-frequency switching demands fast-response models.
• Environmental Adaptability:
• Explosion-proof solenoids for hazardous environments.
• Stainless steel for moist/corrosive conditions.
• Mounting Style: Plate-mounted, pipe-mounted, or flange-mounted options.
8. Common Issues and Maintenance
• Faults:
• Solenoid fails to engage (coil burnout, voltage issues).
• Spool jamming (oil contamination, spring failure).
• Internal leakage (worn seals).
• Maintenance Tips:
• Regularly replace hydraulic oil to maintain cleanliness.
• Check solenoid wiring for loose connections.
• Avoid prolonged partial spool movement (accelerates wear).
9. Typical Symbol Representation
In hydraulic schematics, solenoid valves are represented by squares for positions and arrows for flow paths. Examples:
• 2/3 Valve: □→□ (two squares, three ports).
• 3/4 Valve: □□□→□ (three squares, four ports; neutral function marked with symbols like O-type or H-type).
10. Development Trends
• Smart Integration: Embedded sensors and electronic control units (ECUs) for closed-loop control.
• Energy Efficiency: Low-power solenoids and optimized spool designs.
• Modularization: Integration with proportional/servo valves for enhanced precision.