Solenoid Valves Applications

Solenoid valves are essential components for various applications, including steam, gas, hot water, and vacuum systems. Our range includes steam solenoid valves, Namur mount solenoid valves, cryogenic solenoid valves, general purpose solenoid valves, gas solenoid valves, heavy fuel oil solenoid valves, hot water solenoid valves, vacuum solenoid valves, and WC flushing solenoid valves. Additionally, we offer WRAS approved solenoid valves, ensuring compliance with water regulations for safe and reliable performance.

Steam Solenoid Valves

ASCO Steam solenoid valves accommodate a variety of pressures and temperatures for applications involving Superheated Steam, Saturated Steam, and hot water. The range includes valves that can handle maximum temperatures up to +186°C, along with options suitable for less demanding tasks requiring temperatures up to 150°C. The steam valve lineup features the 222, 262, 240, and 220 Series.

Size Range: 1/4" - 2"
Function: 2/2 Normally Closed
Operation: Direct Acting, Pilot Operated - Floating Piston
Voltages: 24VAC, 115VAC, 24VDC, 48VDC
Applications: Hot Water, Steam
End Connections: Screwed BSPT
Pressure Rating: 0.3 - 10 Bar
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Namur Mount Solenoid Valves

ASCO Namur-mounted valves, complying with VDI/VDE 3845 and ISO 5211 standards, attach directly to any Namur interface of the appropriate size. This setup facilitates local air control for the pneumatic devices in operation, typically pneumatic actuators or cylinders. Air flow is managed through a Namur plate, serving as the direct link between the pilot valve and the pneumatic actuator or air-operated valve. The ASCO E290 air-operated angle seat valve is available with a Namur plate adapter to accommodate a Namur type 551/327 solenoid valve. The valve bodies are offered in Aluminum, Brass, and Stainless Steel.

Size Range: 1/4" - 1/2"
Function: 3/2 Normally Closed, 5/2 Spring Return, 5/3 W1 & W3 Namur, Air, Lever, Foot Operated
Operation: Pilot Operated
Voltages: 24VAC, 24VAC, 115VAC, 24VDC, 48VD
Applications: Compressed Air
End Connections: BSPP, NPT
Pressure Rating: 0-10 Bar (327), 2 - 10 Bar (551, 553)
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Cryogenic Solenoid Valves

ASCO Cryogenic solenoid valves are designed to manage the severe sub-zero temperatures encountered with cryogenic fluids. They can control Liquid Oxygen at temperatures down to -183°C, Liquid Argon down to -186°C, and Liquid Nitrogen, which requires handling even colder conditions down to -196°C. The 264 series is specifically engineered to handle the high pressures associated with bottle discharge, supporting a maximum pressure of 70 Bar and temperatures as low as -60°C.

Size Range: 1/8" - 3/4"
Function: 2/2 Normally Closed
Operation: Direct Acting
Voltages: 24VAC, 110VAC, 230VAC, 24VDC, 12VDC
Applications: Liquid Oxygen (-183°C), Liquid Argon (-186°C), Liquid Nitrogen (-196°C)
End Connections: BSPP, NPT
Pressure Rating: 0-9 Bar (263, 222 Series), (0-70 Bar 264 Series Co²)
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General Purpose Solenoid Valves

General purpose valves are suitable for a wide array of basic applications. They are ideal for controlling water, air, or inert gas. This range of valves is available with body materials in Brass and Stainless Steel, along with a diverse selection of seal and diaphragm materials tailored to specific media and applications. Normally closed valves are designed for fail-safe applications, ensuring that they automatically close in the event of a power failure. Additionally, normally-open valves are available for situations where it is necessary for a pipeline to remain open during a power outage.

Size Range: 1/8" - 2"
Function: 2/2 Normally Closed, 2/2 Normally Open, 3/2 Normally Closed, 3/2 Normally Open, 3/2 Universal
Operation: Direct Acting, Pilot Operated
Voltages: 24VAC, 110VAC, 230VAC, 48VAC, 24VDC, 48VDC, 115VAC
Applications: Natural Gas, Inert Gas
End Connections: BSPP, NPT, Clamp
Pressure Rating: 0-140 Bar (262 Series 1/8” AC Only) 0-9/10 Bar (Most General Purpose Valves)
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Gas Solenoid Valves

ASCO Gas solenoid valves are offered as 2/2 valves with a normally-closed function, acting as small gas safety valves that close automatically during a power failure. The 040 & 215 series of these valves are constructed from Aluminum, whereas the 030 & 262 series feature a Brass body. Most of these gas valves are designed for very low pressure applications, so it is important to specify system pressures when making inquiries. The ASCO Gas Valve Series includes models 262, 030, 040, 215, 043, 044, and E290 with an EG Prefix.

Size Range: 1/8" - 1"
Function: 2/2 Normally Closed
Operation: Direct Acting, Pilot Operated
Voltages: 24VAC, 110VAC, 230VAC
Applications: Natural Gas, Inert Gas
End Connections: BSP
Pressure Rating: 0-1 Bar (040 Series), 2.76 Bar (262 Series), 480mBar (030 Series)
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Heavy Fuel Oil Solenoid Valves

ASCO provides the 266 range of direct-operated, lever-type solenoid valves, specifically designed for use with heavy fuel oils. These valves are available in two different construction types to suit specific applications: you can choose between FPM soft seals or metal-to-metal seats, depending on the media involved. If the valve needs to operate in a hazardous area, ATEX-certified solenoid coils are available. These valves are suitable for use with fuel oil grades 2 & 4, as well as the heavier grades 5 & 6, which require heating.

Size Range: 3/8" - 3/4"
Function: 2/2 Normally Closed, 2/2 NC (3 Port Version - One Bypass Port)
Operation: Direct Acting
Voltages: 24VAC, 48VAC, 115VAC, 230VAC
Applications: Heavy Fuel Oil, (Maximum Viscosity: 10 - 640 cSt (MM2/S)
End Connections: BSPP, NPT, Clamp
Pressure Rating: 0-45 Bar
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Hot Water Solenoid Valves

Many ASCO valve models are suitable for hot water applications, but the choice of specific valve depends on the maximum temperature requirements. Standard NBR seals are sufficient for water temperatures up to +85°C. For higher temperatures, EPDM seals allow for a maximum temperature of up to 150°C for valve sizes from 3/8" to 3/4", and up to 130°C for sizes from 1" to 1½". For temperatures exceeding these limits, steam valve ranges are recommended. The hot water valve series include the 238, 222, 210, and 220 Series.

Size Range: 3/8" - 1 1/2"
Function: 2/2 Normally Closed
Operation: Direct Acting
Voltages: 24VAC, 48VAC, 115VAC, 230VAC
Applications: Warm Water, Hot Water
End Connections: BSPT
Pressure Rating: 0-3.5 Bar Steam @ 150°C (3/8" - 3/4"), 0-2 Bar Steam @ 130°C (1" - 1½") or 0-9 Bar Water
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Vacuum Solenoid Valves

The ASCO portfolio includes valves specifically designed for vacuum applications, accommodating a broad spectrum of pipe sizes and available in various materials of construction such as Brass, Aluminum, and Stainless Steel. These vacuum solenoid valves are categorized into three types based on the absolute vacuum range they support: low vacuum, medium vacuum (indicated by the suffix VM), and high vacuum (denoted by the suffix VH). The vacuum series from ASCO features several models, including the 262, 215, 030, 210, 287, and 387 valves.

Size Range: 1/4" - 3"
Function: 2/2 Normally Closed, 2/2 Normally Open
Operation: Direct Acting, Pilot Operated
Voltages: 24VDC, 24VAC, 110VAC, 230VAC, 12VDC, 48VDC
Applications: Air, Natural Gas, Inert Gas
End Connections: BSPP, BSPT, NPT, Weld, Clamp
Pressure Rating: 1.33.10(-6) mBar Min. 10 (-6) Torr
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WC Flushing Solenoid Valves

These valves are commonly used to automate the flushing of urinals and toilets in public buildings like schools, pubs, and restaurants, working alongside a timer controller. Some models are available with very low battery voltages and include a latching coil to conserve power. Additionally, these valves are suitable for use in simple systems such as touchless faucets, activated by a signal from a PIR sensor. The 262 and 210 series valves can be specified with 15mm compression fittings, allowing for easy installation by most plumbers with minimal hassle.

Size Range: 15MM
Function: 2/2 Normally Closed
Operation: Direct Acting
Voltages: 24VDC, 12VDC, 9VDC, 6VDC, 3VDC
Applications: Water
End Connections: 15MM Compression Ends
Pressure Rating: 0-10 Bar
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WRAS Approved Solenoid Valves

These solenoid valves have WRAS (Water Regulations Advisory Scheme) approval for use with potable or drinking water. If you are in the building trade or a plumber, it's likely that most domestic water pipeline installations will require a WRAS-approved valve. The ASCO range includes various valve types tailored to specific applications. Additionally, there are specialist valves equipped with WRAS approval and latching DC coils designed for use with battery-powered auto-flush sensors (refer to WC Flushing Service Solenoid Valves). The WRAS Valve Series includes models 210BM, 262BW, L133D, L160P03, L182D, L182D-BIG, L282D, and L282D-BIG.

Size Range: 3/8” BSP - 2” BSP, 3/8”NPT - 2” NPT, 15MM
Function: 2/2 Normally Closed, 2/2 Normally Open
Operation: Direct Acting, In-Direct Acting, Pilot Operated
Voltages: 24VDC, 12VDC, 9VDC, 6VDC, 3VDC, 230VAC, 115V AC, 24V AC
Applications: Water (Potable Drinking Water)
End Connections: BSP, NPT, 15MM Compression Ends
Pressure Rating: 0-10 Bar, 0.5-10 Bar.
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Frequently Asked Questions

A solenoid valve is an electromechanical device used to control the flow of various fluids or gases. It consists of a coil, a plunger, and a valve body. When an electric current passes through the coil, it creates a magnetic field that moves the plunger, allowing or blocking the flow of the medium through the valve.

Asco brass solenoid valves are available with different end connections to suit pipeline requirements, including BSPP, NPT, Compression, and Push Fit.

The popular series of Asco brass solenoid valves include 238, 210, 222, 256, and 356. These prodcut series are usually stocked in big numbers in the UK for next day delivery.

Solenoid valves operate using the principle of electromagnetism. When an electrical current flows through the coil, it generates a magnetic field that attracts or repels the plunger. The movement of the plunger controls the opening or closing of the valve, regulating the flow of the fluid or gas.

Solenoid valves are used in various industries and applications. Some common applications include controlling the flow of water, air, gas, steam, and oil in systems such as irrigation, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), pneumatic systems, industrial machinery, and process automation.

Solenoid valves are available in different configurations based on their function requirements. The most common types include normally closed (NC) valves, normally open (NO) valves, and 3-way valves. They can also be categorized as direct-acting or pilot-operated valves, depending on the mechanism of operation.

Yes, solenoid valves can be designed for hazardous environments. Specialized versions, such as explosion-proof or ATEX-certified valves, are available to ensure safe operation in potentially explosive atmospheres. These valves are constructed with materials and sealing features that prevent potentially catastrophic ignition sources and comply with worldwide safety standards.

Stainless steel Asco solenoid valves are available in sizes ranging from 1/8" to 1.5" with pressure rating up to 150 Bar.

Engineered plastic solenoid valves are commonly used in applications such as dispensing, analytical water applications, and diagnostic equipment.

Namur mount solenoid valves are designed to mount directly to any Namur interface and are commonly used for piloting the operation of quarter turn pneumatic actuators (Rack & Pinion) or cylinders.

Asco solenoid valves use seat materials such as EPDM, Viton, and NBR to ensure compatibility with the flow medium. Over time these soft materials can degrade and prevent complete sealing. Actuation Valve have a wide range of spare seals and diaphragms avialable to suit for future servicing.

The life expectancy of a solenoid valve varies but can range from several years to decades. Well maintained valves can last anything from 1 million to 10 million cycles.

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ASCO Solenoid Valve Applications