When using water supply and heating systems, no one is insured against emergencies. To minimize risks and losses in case of a breakthrough, an electromagnetic (solenoid) valve for water allows. This device allows you to quickly shut off or, conversely, open the flow of water in a few seconds from a distance. Let us analyze in detail how the electromagnetic valve is arranged, the types, principles of its operation and installation.

The solenoid valve is a shut-off valve that closes the water flow and allows you to control the speed of fluid movement in the pipeline. These devices are called electromagnetic, since their principle of operation is built around an electromagnetic coil (solenoid). There are several types of similar products and each has its own characteristics and differences in the principle of operation.

An automatic water seal includes the following components:

• frame;
• lid;
• membrane and seal;
• plunger;
• stock;
• electric coil.

The body of such units is usually made of materials such as brass, stainless steel (in order to increase resistance to corrosion) and cast iron. Plumbing solenoid valves made of plastic are quite popular.

Plungers and stems are made from materials that are magnetic. Electromagnetic coils are placed in a special protective case, which has sufficiently high tightness parameters. Coil windings are usually made of copper wire or enamelled wire. Such devices begin to work after voltage is applied to the coil.

An electromagnetic or, in other words, an induction coil converts electrical energy into translational motion. The most common are copper-wound coils on a cylinder. The cylinder includes a magnetic plunger. As soon as a pulse is applied to the coil, a magnetic field appears. As a result of the action of the magnetic field, the core is drawn into the coil.

Membranes of products are made of polymeric materials that have a high level of elasticity. These materials include the following:

• membranes EPDM, NBR, FKM.
• PTFE or TEFLON seals.

Valves can be made from a wide variety of materials; the body is made of plastic, brass or cast iron.

In the event that there is a need to shut off the supply of the transported medium, a pulse is sent from the control unit to the induction coil. Thanks to this signal, the core of the device rises or falls (it all depends on the configuration of the device) and blocks the flow of liquid. Immediately after the voltage disappears, the core returns to its original position and the fluid movement resumes.

Benefits of using electromagnetic devices

The main advantage of the water solenoid valve is that it allows you to quickly regulate the flow of the transported medium in the system. The device needs only 2-3 seconds to perform its functions. Because of this, the solenoid model is a rather important device in the water supply systems of apartments and private houses.

It also makes it possible to regulate the temperature by regulating the flow of the heating medium. The electromagnetic device allows the temperature to be distributed smoothly in the heating system, thereby preventing contamination. And this directly allows you to extend the service life of the entire heating system.

Due to the fact that the device in its design does not have high-wearing mechanical parts, solenoid models are more reliable. Such a device can be installed in systems with a wide variety of pressure indicators, since this characteristic does not affect its operation.

It is because of these characteristics that electromagnetic models occupy a dominant position among valves on the market.

Applications

An automatic water valve is a fairly useful device that is used in a wide variety of areas. This unit is successfully used in various sectors of the household and national economy, as well as in various industrial sectors. Many air ducts and water pipes of varying degrees of complexity of the design successfully use this product in their work.

Solenoid driven equipment is most popular in designs where most of the instruments operate on an automatic control principle. Basically, the choice of the field of application is determined based on the material from which the valve is made. Similar devices can be found in washing machines, sewage systems, irrigation systems, to control hydraulic systems, heating systems and many others.

He received the greatest popularity in:

1. Irrigation. Used for watering vegetable gardens, orchards, greenhouses. When installing such a device, all processes become automatic. An electromagnetic device with a servo drive (220.24.12 V), if a timer is connected to it, will allow you to set the time intervals for the operation and shutdown of the device. It can be in a normally open or closed position. Such rhythms will allow you to guide the regulation of water flows. The advantages of using such a device are more than obvious - there is no need to waste time for constant monitoring of the irrigation system.
2. Sewerage. The solenoid valve (12, 24 V) for water is quite widely used to regulate the water supply in public showers and toilets. A timer is also used here, which allows you to automatically turn on and off the water pressure supply.
3. Washing systems. The solenoid water valve (220, 24, 12 V) allows you to ensure the timely drainage of water during a car wash. Moreover, a similar device is found in household and industrial washing machines.
4. Large scale kitchens. The sp6135 solenoid valve (220, 24, 12 V) is a truly indispensable device on conveyor systems for making bakery products, regulating the level of water supply to industrial dishwashing systems and coffee machines.
5. Precise dosing. The electromagnetic closure for hot water plays an important role in the mixing procedures for various raw materials and materials.
6. Heating systems. A water solenoid valve (220, 24.12 V) prevents interruptions in the operation of heating systems. The device makes it possible to compensate for losses during gradual evaporation of water on the main heating lines.

In addition, electromagnetic models are used to regulate and control the transportation of various aggressive media in production. Devices used in manufacturing can be quite large in diameter. The use of brass models when working with aggressive substances such as, for example, diesel fuel or acid, is strictly prohibited.

Types of automatic water valve

The solenoid valve (its types) are of two categories, the main difference between which is their principle of operation of switching the mechanism on and off:

• direct action;
• pilot action.

In addition, they are of several main types, which have their own functional characteristics. Devices are:

• normally open (or normally closed). In the event that no voltage is applied to the coil, this device remains open (if it is normally open), and thus does not impede the flow of flow. In the case of a normally closed valve, the opposite is true;
• bistable. As soon as voltage is applied, the operating positions are switched.

By the type of coils, devices are divided into:

• direct current - the coil for devices of this type has a small electromagnetic field strength;
• alternating current - in these devices, the coils have a sufficiently powerful electromagnetic field.

In addition, the units are subdivided according to the type of work:

• one-way;
• two-way;
• three-way.

One-way ones have only one branch pipe and they cannot combine different fluid flows in themselves. Two-way ones have two nozzles (inlet and outlet). The principle of operation of the one-way and two-way device operates on the method of ball or cone operation, which is used to close.

Three-way solenoid valves for water in their design have as many as three nozzles and can work on the basis of mixing fluid flows. In addition, this type of device can control and regulate temperature using mixing water streams. There are also explosion-proof models for use in explosive atmospheres. These valves are made of both fireproof and durable materials. There are also vacuum valves.

By the type of connections to the pipeline, they are divided into:

• flanged valves;
• threaded valves.

Useful information! There is a special type of device called a cutoff device. This type of device can instantly turn off the pipeline or clog one of the pipes during an accident.

Regulating and shut-off valves must be selected and installed, only relying on the calculations made earlier. It is necessary to use one or another type of valve (normally closed, two-way, direct acting, etc.) depending on the type of pipeline and on what type of medium is transported through it.

The valves are used in a wide variety of environments, which have their own individual temperature and pressure values. The choice of the type of device should be based on the characteristics of the environment, otherwise the device may not last for a long time.

There are several key characteristics to look out for when choosing a solenoid valve. The main parameter is the diameter of the inlet and outlet.

The range of electromagnetic devices is quite large. They have various distinctive design features. However, this usually does not greatly affect the operating parameters. The most popular are one-inch electromagnetic devices, in which the flow rate reaches 40 l / min.

Important! Before purchasing a valve, special attention should be paid to the mechanical regulator built into the device. It can have several modes. The more there are, the better the system will be controlled.

Where a valve with the highest possible capacity is required, the SVR series can be purchased. In a normally closed position, the valve of this series can have liquid flow rates up to 100 l / min. Valve prices vary in their quality characteristics.

Installation and operation rules

During the installation and operation of the solenoid valves, the following points must be taken into account:

1. Before self-installation of an electromagnetic device for water, it is necessary to carry out preparatory work, which includes the cleaning of pipes and their marking.
2. The valve installation site must be visible and easily accessible. The compactness of the solenoid valves simplifies this task.
3. It is strictly forbidden to mount the device in the case when the electromagnetic coil will act as a lever.
4. Assembly and disassembly should only be carried out when the device is completely de-energized.
5. It is recommended to install a dirt filter on the system, thanks to which the product will not become clogged with foreign particles.
6. The solenoid must not be loaded by the weight of the pipes.
7. Installation must be carried out according to the direction arrows marked on the valve surface.
8. If the installation is carried out in an open space, the device must be protected with special insulation.
9. It is recommended to use FUM tape as a sealant for valve and pipe connections.
10. The device is connected to the mains using a flexible cable whose core cross-section must not be less than 1 mm.

Compliance with the rules during installation work and the requirements of the operating instructions will extend the service life of the device, which stabilizes the working pressure of the medium inside the system.

Problems with this device are often caused by the following problems:

• due to a break in the cable of the control unit, the cable cannot receive the required power supply;
• in case of failure of the spring, during normal power supply, the valve does not work;
• if a characteristic click is not heard when starting the equipment, then the reason lies in the burnt out electromagnetic coil.

Even a banal blockage of the hole can lead to a malfunction of the normally closed solenoid valve.

Inspection of the inside of the water valve should only be carried out with a completely drained system. Performing complex repairs yourself is not recommended.

Electrical valves are required to automatically control various hydraulic systems. Finished products are quite expensive. Let's look for a cheaper solution.

The most accessible valves are from out-of-order washing machines.

The coils of such devices are rated for 220 volts AC, which limits their capabilities. Sometimes it is more convenient to operate the valve with a low voltage of 12 volts.

I needed such a device to regulate the heater mode of the interior of a VAZ car. Suitable valves from foreign cars are outrageously expensive, and with a rise in the exchange rate, they become a luxury item. Let's try to remake the electric valve from the washing machine to the on-board voltage of the car.

First, let's see how everything works.

We remove the coil by inserting a thin screwdriver into the gap between the solenoid and the body. In this case, you can slightly squeeze the petals that secure the solenoid coil with pliers.

To operate at a voltage of 12 volts, it is necessary to replace the solenoid (coil) of the valve.

The most suitable solenoid was found in the EPHKH air valve of the VAZ 2105.

Since no images of the entrails have been found on the Internet, I will give them for the curious.

Let's start disassembling

The simplest thing is to cut off the rolling on emery or cut it off with a file along the outer edge.
Valve cover (inside view):

Stock, it is a cork. The air flow is blocked with a rubber insert at the end. On the opposite end there is a depression for the spring:

Steel washer for closing the magnetic flux and a non-magnetic guide in which the rod moves:

Coil:
1. In the case.

2. Removed.

Oval O-rings seal the leads from the inside of the housing. We'll need one of them later, so save them.

And finally, the case from the inside. The end face of a stationary magnetic circuit with a projection for a spring is visible:

Next, we are finalizing the body. On emery we grind a tube with a rivet from the back, and putting the case upside down, carefully knock out the remnants of the internal magnetic circuit with a beard. If the body is washed inwards, we eliminate the deformation. Next, drill the central hole to a diameter of 9mm.

To create a magnetic system similar to the valve system from a washing machine, it is necessary to cut two strips from tin from a tin can - one 15 mm wide, the other 10 mm. The length of the strips should be such that a ring of about 1.5 turns is wound on the valve stem body from the washing machine.

Modern industry produces many different taps and valves for regulating the flow of liquid. You can find the right one for every application. However, the inquisitive minds of home craftsmen do not abandon their attempts to develop and implement their own designs. Sometimes this is caused by the desire to save money, but more often - by the desire to test their own strengths as a designer, machine builder, locksmith and electrical engineer.

Types of cranes

Trying to replicate the design of a conventional shut-off valve does not make practical and economic sense if the home workshop is not equipped with high-precision milling, turning and drilling machines. The price of industrial designs for mass production is affordable even for the most modest budget. Another thing is technically complex shut-off valves for special applications, such as:

• ball with electric drive;
• needle;
• non-freezing;
• with a flowing water heater;

Do-it-yourself options for their implementation will be discussed below.

Ball with electric drive,

The motorized valve can be used in modern smart water, heating and air conditioning systems built by DIYers with minimal use of off-the-shelf components. In addition to testing your strength, there will be a significant monetary benefit - a purchased device with an electric drive costs from 2 to 10 thousand rubles.

For a do-it-yourself ball valve with an installed electric drive, you will need the following materials and components:

• ball valve 3/4 ″;

• power window drive for Lada 1117, 2123 left LSA;

• five-pin automotive relays - 2 pcs .;
• limit microswitches - 2 pcs .;
• sheet metal with a thickness of 1 mm (for the bed and clamps);
• steel tube 10 mm - trimming (for bushings);
• square profile 10 * 10 mm - 10 cm;
• metal strip 4 mm thick - 10 * 1 cm;
• spring with a diameter of 12 mm;
• bolt М8 * 45 with nut and washers - 2 pcs.

All electrical equipment is 12 volts. Of the tools you need:

• drill;
• scissors for metal;
• workbench with a vice;
• welding machine;
• hand tools (hammer, screwdriver, wrenches, pliers, etc.)

The created mechanism must allow the electric crane to be operated both by means of a drive and manually. The manufacturing sequence is as follows:

• Bend the U-shaped frame out of a sheet of metal.
• From the tube sections, make bushings for marking the power window drive to the frame.
• Secure the drive.
• Fix the frame to the branch pipes coming out of the ball valve using clamps.
• From the square profile, cut out a nozzle on the gearbox axle.
• Weld a strip to it.
• Assemble the drive linkage from the strip and the handle by springing it. The spring presses the levers together, if necessary, they can be quickly disconnected without the use of tools and the crane can be operated manually.
• Pivotally fasten the strip to the handle using a bolt and a nut. Lock the nut.
• Fasten the square profile to the shaft of the window regulator gearbox.

Next, you should test the kinematics by applying voltage to the electric motor. You can use a car battery or power supply with at least 50W. The linkage should move smoothly, without jerks or distortions. If necessary, correct interfering parts with a file.

Now comes the turn of the electrical part of the drive.

• In the extreme positions of the handle, mount the limit microswitches.
• They should be connected in such a way that they open the control circuit of the relay through which the motor is turned on, upon reaching the extreme position "Open" or "Closed".

Such a drive can be connected to the control circuits of the "smart home" system. A do-it-yourself electric faucet for water will be cost-effective if the power window drive is inexpensive. A new one costs up to 1 thousand rubles, and can eat up half of the savings.

Instead of a power window drive, you can use any other electric drive,

close in power and torque.

Needle

A needle valve with a large adjustment range can be assembled from scrap materials at low cost. To make it you will need:

• Disposable plastic syringe 2 ml.
• Insulin syringe 1 ml.
• Bearing ball - 2 pcs.
• Springs - 2 pcs.
• Nut and adjusting screw.
• Epoxy adhesive.
• Fasteners.
• Plastic ties-2 pcs.

The diagram shows:

• Syringes are black.
• The balls are blue.
• Springs - green.
• The stock is red.
• Direction of fluid movement - green arrows.

To make a crane, you should:

• Pick up balls by diameter. The large one should be slightly smaller than the internal size of the 2 ml syringe, the small one should be 2 times smaller.
• Pick up the springs by force. The compression force of the large spring is about twice that of the small one.
• Drill a hole in a large syringe near the spout, equal to the inner diameter of the insulin. Pull the insulin syringe by the ears with zip ties, wrap with synthetic threads and glue.
• Insert the small ball and the smaller spring into the large syringe.
• Cut off the piston rod.
• Insert the large spring and the second ball.
• Insert the adjusting screw.
• Fasten the nut to the lugs with the screws.

The incoming liquid will tend to squeeze the ball away from the inlet, the spring will press it back the stronger, the harder the adjusting screw is tightened. If the screw is completely unscrewed, the flow will pass freely, if completely tightened, the flow will be cut off.

Anti-freeze tap

Those who need to use the water supply on the site in the winter are faced with the problem of freezing a street tap. At large temperature differences, the water inside the fittings and pipes turns into ice and can break them.

There are several ways to organize such a water supply:

• Installing a purchased anti-freeze tap. In it, the valve disc is located inside the warm contour of the walls. They always install it with a slope towards the street. Then, after closing the valve, the water remaining in the pipe flows down and does not freeze in the pipe. The devices are available in different lengths, which allows them to be installed in walls of different thicknesses.

• A home-made version of such a device is a conventional poppet faucet mounted on an inlet inside the warm contour of the walls. Its stem is elongated by a rod passing through the wall in the tube. A handle is attached to the outside of the bar. The branch pipe must also be installed with a slope towards the street. This method requires an extra hole in the wall, but costs several times cheaper. Of course, you will have to periodically chop off the ice that forms under the outflow.

• A crane installed on an underground insulated water supply system. In this case, it is necessary to have a drainage into which the water remaining after closing the valve in the vertical branch pipe will be drained. It is used in the construction, installed in a heat-insulated pit.

• The valve is operated from the street through the stem extension. In the working position, it turns on the water supply to the vertical branch pipe, at the end of which the spout is mounted. As soon as the water is collected, the tap is closed, the supply stops, and the water remaining in the branch pipe is drained into the drain through the third hole of the tap.

Sensory

It is unlikely that a home craftsman will be able to make a full-fledged touch faucet. The main problem will be in the placement and waterproofing of the infrared proximity sensor. An interesting enough design that allows you to turn on and off the water with busy hands can be assembled using

• Solenoid valve from the washing machine for 220 v - 2 pcs.
• Nipple 10mm * 1/2 external thread - 2 pcs.
• ¾ to ½ fittings thread - 2 pcs.
• Bell button for surface mounting.
• Wires.

The order of installation and configuration is as follows:

• The valves are installed in the break in the hot and cold water line, directly in front of the mixer.
• Their drive is connected via a foot switch.
• During presetting, with the solenoid valves open, set the required temperature and water flow rate and leave the mixer tap in this position.
• If you need to turn on the water, just press the bell button - the valves will work, and the water will flow from the tap.

When water is no longer needed, it is enough to release the button and the springs will return the valve to the closed state. Particular attention should be paid to waterproofing the wires and connections.

Instantaneous water heater on the tap

Commercial instantaneous electric water heaters have a compact design and are equipped with a temperature control system, a spout and an aerator. It is unlikely that it will be possible to make such a tap attachment with your own hands in a home workshop. The main problem lies in the accuracy of processing parts and ensuring the electrical safety of the device. However, homemade products have developed a simple and quite effective design that makes it possible to do without complex and expensive components. It works by heating a coil heat exchanger on a gas or electric burner. Average locksmith skills are enough for making.

From materials and tools you will need:

• Copper tube with a diameter of 10-12 mm - 1 meter
• Heat-resistant rubber or plastic hoses - 2 distances from the burner to the sink +1 m
• 2 fittings with ½ inner diameter of hoses
• Crane adapter for eurocube
• 4 clamps
• Bows with threaded threads and nuts for them - 2 pcs.
• Construction knife, screwdriver, gas wrench

The work is carried out in the following sequence:

• Wind a spiral from the tube in the shape of the burner. Taper the spiral to make the most of the heat from the burner. Straight sections of the inlet and outlet pipes should extend beyond the plate panel by 20-30 cm.
• Fasten the spiral to the slab grid. Put the hoses on the branch pipes and secure them with clamps.
• Connect one fitting to the cold water supply (branch pipe or canister tap), the other to the mixer.
• Put the free ends of the hoses on the fittings and also secure with clamps. Cold water should flow to the bottom of the spiral.

When such a heater is in operation, it must not be left unattended for a minute.