Manual override solenoid valve

Types of Manual Override Solenoid Valves

A manual override solenoid valve controls fluid or gas flow through pipes. The function of this valve is to give operators control over a system manually. Override solenoid valves can come in diverse types.

• Push Button Solenoid Valve:

  A push button manual override solenoid valve allows for momentary override function as long as the button is pressed. Once the button is released, the valve returns to its normal operating condition. These types of valves are often used in safety applications or to temporarily control a function.

• Rotary Manual Override Solenoid Valve:

  Rotary manual override solenoid valves are devices that control the flow of fluids or gases by turning them. They are commonly used in various industries for different purposes. Rotary manual override solenoid valves are usually made of durable materials like brass or stainless steel to ensure their quality and can be used for changing the direction of fluids in piping systems or controlling the on/off function of appliances.

• Pull Solenoid Valve:

  This type of manual override solenoid valve uses pulling to operate the valve. When the operator pulls the lever, the valve opens or closes. Pull solenoid valves are used in applications where manual control is needed distantly or in difficult access areas.

Specifications and maintenance of manual override solenoid valves

Specifications

• Sizes: Manual override solenoid valves are available in various sizes to accommodate different tubing and piping systems. Common size units include quarter-inch, half-inch, three-quarter-inch, and one-inch dimensions.
• Pressure rating: The pressure rating of a manual override solenoid valve indicates the maximum pressure it can sustain without leaking or failing. Pressure ratings span from low to high, depending on the application requirements. For instance, high-pressure manual solenoid valves are designed to withstand valve 10 bars up to maximums of 30 bars or even higher.
• Media compatibility: Manual override solenoid valves can be manufactured from materials that are compatible with particular fluids or gases. Common examples include brass, stainless steel, and plastic.
• Electrical characteristics: The manual override solenoid valve's electrical features include its voltage and wattage. The voltage levels vary but typically include 12V, 24V, 110V, and 220V.
• Normally closed (NC) or normally open (NO): NC or NO defines how the valve operates. In a normally closed valve, no current flow makes the valve be closed. Conversely, a normally open manual override solenoid valve gets closed when electrical current flows through the valve.

Maintenance

• Inspection: Carry out regular inspections on manual override solenoid valves. Check for any signs of damage like cracks, leaks, corrosion, or deformities. Look at the valve's components to ensure they are intact and functioning well.
• Cleaning: Cleaning the manual override solenoid valve helps to maintain the proper operation of the override mechanism. Clean any dirt or deposit on the valve using a soft cloth or brush. In case the valve requires more thorough washing, dip it in a suitable solvent that's compatible with the valve construction material. After cleaning, allow it to dry completely before installation.
• Lubrication: Lubricate the manual override occasionally to keep it operating smoothly. Apply a small amount of lubricant on the moving parts of the valve. Wipe off any excess lubricant.
• Testing: Overs periodically but rather frequently to ensure the manual override function works appropriately. Activating the manual override allows the operator to check the valve's response to the activation and its functioning properly.
• Follow manufacturer instructions: Every valve has unique specifications and requirements. Therefore, it's important to follow the manual service and maintenance requirements.

Usage scenarios of manual override solenoid valves

• Safety systems: In a chemical plant, a manual solenoid valve actuator is used in safety systems to ensure the emergency shutdown of gas flow. Normally, the system operates by controlling the flow of gases automatically. But in some situations, the staff may need to manually control the valve. For example, they may need to control the gas flow to perform equipment maintenance or prevent unexpected hazards. The manual override allows the personnel to control the shutdown of the gas flow securely. So even if there is no power or the automatic control is not working, the staff can manually control it safely.
• Gas burners: In a manual gas burner, a manual override solenoid valve controls the flow of gas. Normally, the valve opens or closes based on automatic signals. However, in some situations, the operator may need to manually control the gas flow. For example, they may need to adjust the gas flow during startup or maintenance. The manual solenoid valve lets the operator manually control the gas flow. So they can open or close it even if the automatic system is not functioning.
• Water pumping systems: In a water pumping system, a manual solenoid valve controls the flow of water to the pumps. In normal operation, the valve opens or closes automatically based on preset parameters. However, there may be situations where the operator needs to manually control the water flow. For example, they may need to adjust the flow during system repairs or perform other operations. The manual override allows the operator to manually control the valve. So they can adjust the water flow precisely according to the specific needs of the system.
• Refrigeration systems: In a refrigeration system, a manual solenoid valve controls the flow of refrigerant to the compressor. Usually, the valve operates automatically based on the system's pressure and temperature. But there could be instances when the technician needs to manually control the valve. For instance, during system troubleshooting or when replacing components. The manual override allows the technician to have direct control over the valve. They can precisely regulate the refrigerant flow. Thus, ensuring accurate and effective servicing of the refrigeration system components.

How to choose manual override solenoid valves

• Application requirements:

  For users, the first step in choosing a manual solenoid valve is to understand the application requirements. This includes the operating conditions of the application, such as pressure and temperature, flow rate requirements, as well as the medium that needs to be controlled and the voltage power supply available at the installation site. The operating pressure and temperature range of a manual solenoid valve should match the conditions of the application. The flow rate capacity should meet the system's demand, and the medium type should correspond to the physical and chemical properties of the solenoid valve.

• Function type:

  Users need to choose the proper function type according to the application situation. Normally close means the valve is closed when there is no current, and it opens when current passes through, while normally open means the opposite. An alternative option is a two-position (on/off) or three-way solenoid valve, which can achieve more complex controls.

• Size:

  Users need to consider the size of the solenoid valve to ensure it is properly fitted into the piping system. The size is usually determined by the nominal diameter and is designed to minimize pressure drops.

• Manual control mechanism:

  Users should consider the manual control mechanism of the solenoid valve. Commonly, it is a manual push button, lever, or knob, which should be designed for ease of use and safety.

• Quality of the product:

  Users need to pay attention to the quality of the manual solenoid valve, including its material, manufacturing process, etc. Choose reputable brands and suppliers to ensure product quality and reliability.

FAQ

Q1: What are the advantages of using manual override solenoid valves?

A1: Manual actuator solenoid valves offer several benefits to those who choose to use them blindly. For starters, they allow for manual control of the flow even when there is no power supplied to the valve. This enables the user to have full control of the operation of the machine. Another advantage of the manual solenoid valve is its simple and robust design. This makes it very easy to install and use. Lastly, they provide a fail-safe operation. That is, in case of failure of the electrical component of the valve, the user can control it manually.

Q2: What are the common types of manual override solenoid valves?

A2: There are different types of manual override solenoid valves. But the most common ones are the flip and push types. The flip type is also known as the manual on/off. With this type, the solenoid valve can be operated manually by flipping the switch to on or off. It offers convenient control in applications that require intermittent manual override. On the other hand, the push type has a button that temporarily activates the flow while pressing it. It provides temporary manual control in dynamic or changing situations.

Q3: How do manual override solenoid valves work?

A3: Manual override solenoid valves function just like any manual solenoid valve. They control the flow of gases and liquids but can be manually overridden. In overriding the valve manually, the operator can turn on or off the flow of the medium or substance. The operator can also control the amount of substance flowing through the valve. In most cases, manual override solenoid valves have a button or switch for manual operation. The button or switch interacts with the plunger of the valve so that the flow can be controlled.