Collection:3-Way Stainless Solenoid Valves

Three-way stainless steel solenoid valves are designed to control the flow of fluids or gasses by directing them through three ports for inlet, outlet, and exhaust or a second outlet. These valves are highly resistant to corrosion and chemical damage, making them ideal for harsh or sterile environments such as food processing, medical applications, and chemical industries. A 3-way stainless steel solenoid valve can operate normally closed, normally open, or universal (the valve can be easily switched between normally closed and normally open modes), allowing for versatile use in various industrial automation systems.

Features of 3-way stainless steel solenoid valves

• Superior corrosion resistance: Stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion from chemicals, chlorides, and saline solutions, making it suitable for harsh environments where brass and plastic would fail.
• Withstands high temperatures: Unlike brass or plastic, stainless steel valves can handle extreme temperatures, maintaining their integrity and functionality.
• Hygienic and easy to sterilize: The non-porous surface of stainless steel is ideal for applications requiring cleanliness and sterilization, such as in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.
• Durable and strong: Stainless steel valves are robust and can endure high-pressure conditions, offering a longer service life in demanding industrial applications.

Typical applications of 3-way stainless steel solenoid valves

• In the presence of aggressive chemicals: Stainless steel 3-way valves are indispensable in chemical processing facilities handling corrosive agents like sulfuric acid or chlorine, where they direct or mix flow without succumbing to corrosion.
• For high-temperature operations: In steel manufacturing or high-temperature processing plants, 3-way stainless steel valves control cooling systems or manage the flow of high-temperature lubricants and coolants.
• For sanitary applications: 3-way stainless steel valves direct the flow of purified water or pharmaceutical ingredients in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Food and beverage production: The food industry often employs 3-way stainless steel solenoid valves in systems that handle edible oils, dairy products, or beverages. They can withstand the rigorous cleaning processes, including CIP (Clean-In-Place) and SIP (Sterilization-In-Place), required to maintain food safety standards.

Selection criteria

• Flow rate and orifice size: Select an orifice size that can deliver the required flow rate for your system, with larger orifices for higher flow rates and smaller ones for reduced flow.
• Pressure: Choose a valve that can operate within the full range of system pressures to ensure reliability and prevent leakage or damage.
• Temperature: The materials of the valve, particularly the seals and body, must be compatible with the operating temperature of the medium.
• Flow coefficient (Kv-value): Pick a valve with a Kv-value that corresponds to your system's flow rate requirements to maintain precise control.
• Voltage compatibility: The solenoid coil voltage should match your power supply to ensure correct operation and avoid damage.
• Valve functionality: Decide on a normally closed, normally open, or universal valve based on the default state your system needs for safety and functionality.
• Connection specifications: Ensure the valve's connection type and size are appropriate for your piping, with threaded connections for smaller diameters and flanged connections for larger or high-pressure applications.
• Duty cycle: The valve's duty cycle must be suitable for the frequency and duration of its intended use to prevent overheating.
• Specialized design features: Consider valves with specific design options such as latching for maintaining valve position without continuous power, energy-efficient models, suitability for vacuum conditions, high-temperature operation, position feedback for system monitoring, and manual override for manual control.
• Surface treatment: Select a valve with a surface treatment that can endure the operating environment, like nickel plating for corrosion resistance or standard coatings for general protection.
• Certifications and approvals: Confirm the valve has the necessary certifications, such as those for drinking water compliance, ATEX for explosive environments, UL for safety standards, and IEC for international electrical standards.
• Seal material choices:
  • NBR: For general applications involving oil and water at moderate temperatures.
  • FKM: For chemical resistance and high-temperature applications, including exposure to fuels and acids.
  • EPDM: For hot water and steam applications, not suitable for oils and hydrocarbons.
  • PTFE: For the highest chemical resistance and temperature applications, ideal for aggressive chemicals.

Additional points to consider when using a stainless steel solenoid valve

• Cost constraints: If budget is a primary concern, stainless steel may not be the best choice due to its higher cost than brass or plastic.
• Low-corrosion environments: In applications where corrosion is not a concern, brass may be a more cost-effective and suitable option.
• Weight considerations: Plastic valves may be preferred over heavier stainless steel options for applications where weight is a critical factor.