Solenoid valves are crucial components for precision and reliability in aerospace. But how does a solenoid valve work to maintain reliable aircraft performance? The purpose of these valves is to precisely regulate fluid and gas flow across various critical aerospace systems, from braking mechanisms to deicing equipment. Aerospace systems commonly use hydraulic solenoid valves, pneumatic solenoid valves, electric solenoid valves, gas solenoid valves, and other types to serve essential functions within an aircraft.
What Is a Hydraulic Solenoid Valve?
A hydraulic solenoid valve controls hydraulic fluid flow in high-pressure applications. These valves manage hydraulic power in aerospace systems like landing systems, brakes, and flight controls. These valves use an electric current to actuate the valve, ensuring precise control of hydraulic fluid flow. This precision is vital for optimal performance and safety of aerospace systems. For example, in landing systems, hydraulic solenoid valves ensure smooth and reliable deployment and retraction of gear during extreme environmental conditions.
Components of Solenoid Valves
In aerospace systems, solenoid valves consist of three critical components: the coil, plunger, and body. These parts work together to ensure precise fluid and gas control and system reliability.
The Coil
The wire coil is the core of the solenoid valve. When electrical current flows through it, the coil generates a magnetic field that moves the plunger within the valve. The responsiveness and efficiency of a solenoid valve are determined by the coil’s material, voltage rating, and power consumption.
The Plunger
The plunger is a movable metal component within the solenoid valve. When the coil is energized, the magnetic field pulls the plunger, causing it to open or close the valve to control fluid or gas flow. High-quality materials and exact dimensions are crucial for accurate and reliable valve operation, particularly in high-stress aerospace environments.
The Body
The body of a solenoid valve houses all of the internal components. It also features inlet and outlet ports through which fluids or gases flow. The body is designed to withstand high pressures and harsh environmental conditions. This durability and structural integrity are vital for ensuring long-term reliability and performance of the solenoid valve.
Types & Applications of Solenoid Valves Used in Aerospace
Different types of solenoid valves are used in aerospace, each suited to specific applications:
Pilot-Operated Valve
Pilot-operated solenoid valves use a small pilot valve to control a larger valve. This type is ideal for high-pressure applications where direct control would require excessive force. By employing a pilot valve, these solenoids can manage large flows efficiently and with lower power consumption. They are commonly used in fuel and hydraulic systems in aircraft where precise control is critical.
Direct-Acting Valve
Direct-acting solenoid valves operate without a pilot valve. Instead, the electromagnetic force directly moves the plunger to open or close the valve. This makes direct-acting valves simpler and faster in operation and well-suited for high-stress aerospace environments. These valves are ideal for critical safety systems, such as emergency shut-off valves in fuel and hydraulic systems.
2-Way, 3-Way, and 4-Way Valves
2-way valves have two ports and are used to allow block fluid flow. They are commonly found in simple on/off applications. With three ports, 3-way valves can direct fluid between two different paths. This makes them suitable for more complex control scenarios, such as switching between landing systems. Lastly, 4-way valves have four ports that control double-acting actuators. They are essential in systems that require reversing the direction of fluid flow, such as flight control surfaces.
Choose NMG Aerospace for Superior Solenoid Valve Solutions
NMG Aerospace stands out as a leader in the design and manufacturing of high-quality hydraulic valves that integrate seamlessly into various systems to ensure exceptional aircraft performance and safety. Our solenoid division, Electromotive Inc., brings decades of specialized experience in custom solenoids, solenoid valves, and actuators to support your project from the ideation stage through quality testing. To discuss your next project, talk to a member of our team today.
0 Comments