Solenoid valves and their importance in refrigeration systems
Solenoid valves play an important role in refrigeration and air conditioning systems, controlling the flow of refrigerant. While their basic function—opening and closing the flow of refrigerant—is simple, this function is critical to ensuring system performance.
How does a refrigeration solenoid valve work?
In large refrigeration units, multi-cylinder compressors are connected to solenoid valves and are activated using the compressor's discharge pressure. The solenoid valve's job is to deliver refrigerant to all necessary parts of the refrigeration cycle, including from the compressor to the condenser. When refrigeration is not required, the solenoid valve closes, directing the refrigerant to the suction valve instead of the condenser.
How to size a refrigeration solenoid valve?
Sizing a solenoid valve for a refrigeration application requires some preparation to ensure the best results. First, it is important to understand whether you need a direct-acting or servo-assisted solenoid valve. If your solenoid valve contains neither a piston nor a diaphragm, it is most likely a direct-acting solenoid valve. In this case, you can choose a solenoid valve with a smaller connection diameter, ranging from 6 mm to 10 mm.
In large refrigeration systems, servo-assisted solenoid valves are the first choice. Like direct-acting solenoid valves, they do not require any minimum pressure drop to operate. However, the actual pressure must not fall below the minimum pressure drop at all partial load conditions to ensure that the servo valve works effectively. Adequate maximum operating pressure and maximum operating pressure differential also ensure reliable operation and longer service life.
Options for you:
- Connection Type: SAE (Flare), ODF (Solder), Flange;
- Port Size: 1/4'', 3/8'', 1/2'', 5/8'', 3/4'' , 7/8'', 1-1/8'', 1-3/8'', 1-5/8'', 2-1/8'';
- Operation: Direct Acting, Diaphragm Pilot Operated, Piston Pilot Operated;
- Coil Voltages: 24V AC, 48V AC, 115V AC, 220V-230V AC, 240V AC, 380V-400V AC, 12V DC, 24V DC.
Normally Closed or Open Solenoids
The most common type of solenoid is the normally closed type. When the coil is energized, the valve is open. When it is de-energized, the valve is closed. For a normally open solenoid, when the coil is energized, the valve is closed; when the coil is de-energized, the valve is open.
More Refrigeration Valves:
We also produce many other refrigeration system accessories:
- Four-way Reversing Valve
- Expansion Valve
- Ball Valve
- Pressure Regulating Valve
- Check Valve
- Sight Glass
- Refrigeration Coil
- Refrigeration Armature
... ...
