How to Choose a Chemical Solenoid Valve
Choosing a Chemical Solenoid Valve requires an analysis of the process medium, operating conditions, flow requirements and control system.
Identify the chemical medium, first. Identify the exact chemical name, the concentration, the temperature, the viscosity and whether it is a liquid or gas. Chemical compatibility is important because an unsuitable body or seal material can swell, crack, become brittle or deteriorate.
Second, choose appropriate wetted materials. Depending on the application, PTFE, PVDF, PP, stainless steel, EPDM, FKM or other materials may be suitable. Don’t pick a material from a general compatibility chart; you need to check compatibility against the actual chemical and the temperature it will be operating at.
Third, calculate the flow rate and port size needed. If the valve orifice is too small, it can cause undesired pressure loss. If the valve is too large, it can have poor control characteristics or be unnecessarily costly. Check the required flow rate, pressure drop and, where applicable, valve flow coefficient.
Fourth, check the pressure and temperature scope. Check both maximum working pressure and minimum differential pressure requirements. The valve should also be rated for the maximum and minimum process temperature.
Fifth, choose the right operating configuration. Normally closed valves are generally used when the flow is desired to stop when power is lost. Normally open designs may be used when flow is desired to continue without electrical power.
Sixth,ย Match the electrical specifications. Check coil voltage, AC/DC operation, power consumption, connector type, duty cycle and environmental protection requirements.
Finally, think about installation and maintenance. Verify connection standards, available space, flow direction, mounting orientation, serviceability, and availability of replacement parts. For hazardous or special environments, the entire valve assembly must meet the applicable system and safety requirements.
Tips for Avoiding Common Chemical Solenoid Valve Design Mistakes
Don’t just buy materials by chemical name. Concentration and temperature can change compatibility considerably.
Don’t forget about seal compatibility. The valve body may fail before the seal.
Don’t make the hole too big. A valve that is too large may not give the desired flow characteristics.
Check pressure differential. Solenoid valves require a differential pressure to operate correctly.
Consider chemistry’s temperature. Temperature can affect material compatibility and maximum pressure.
Select the proper normally open or normally closed version.
Match coil voltage exactly to available control power.
Check electrical protection for moisture, dust and environment of installation.
Check flow direction prior to installation.
Remember maintenance access for easy replacement of seals, coils and other service parts.
Do not mix incompatible materials in wetted parts, fittings and tubing.
Prior to full production, test the entire assembly in the appropriate pressure, temperature, chemical concentration and switching conditions.














