There are well over 1001 solenoid valve uses. Often, where there are large pieces of machinery, within that machinery, you will find solenoids and solenoid valves. However, their uses expand past that and can be used even creatively. But, if there is a media that is flowing through and needs to be controlled quickly, generally there is a solenoid somewhere in use there.
Did you know that you can find solenoid valves in rocket ships? As we expand our technology, parts like solenoid valves also improve drastically. If you are building rockets (not the model type) you can easily get a piloted solenoid poppet valve that can handle 3000PSI. These are used for rocket propulsion. But, solenoid valves have been used in the rocket industry over seven decades. As the government has declassified secret and top secret documents, many of the old schematics and papers are being published that show the usage of valves in early rocketry science. If you are interested in seeing an example of those documents here is a link. It is quite fascinating.
If you aren’t into rocket science but are looking for more conventional uses of solenoid valves then another common option are pressure washer systems. Many pressure washer systems have been compatible with valves such as the 1/4″ brass solenoid valve. An important note for choosing the best valve will be a chemical compatibility check. There are quite a number of online resources to independently verify all aspects of the valve will be compatible on a chemical level with your chosen media.
You will also find multiple solenoids and solenoid valves in vehicles. If you are familiar with the mechanics of a vehicle then you may find yourself familiar with a solenoid starter. While this is not a valve, the mechanics of the solenoid still operate similarly in the sense of when the solenoid is engaged it is going to close on a pair of heavy contacts and in turn send an electrical current through into the starter motor.
To further expand on solenoids and solenoid valves in a vehicle, you will also find the use of them in multi-tanked trucks and as anti-theft. Operators and consumers are opting to install solenoid valves in their vehicles as anti-theft devices in open SUV’s such as Wranglers. Some have installed the valves as an extra level of protection, especially in older models, where they have installed them and without flipping a switch manually it will not allow the vehicle to receive gas. Or, on an alternative spectrum, those who have installed additional gas tanks in their vehicle have found the solenoid valves very useful to help regulate and choose which tank they are fueling their car or truck from.
While we are on the topic of transportation, you will find solenoid valves throughout railway industries as well. Trains and railway vehicles rely heavily on solenoid valves. This is because of the usage of solenoid valves in their braking systems. This directly affects the safety of the railway vehicle itself. You can also find the infamous train horn is made through a solenoid air valve and some are just like the one linked earlier for pressure washers.
Solenoid valves are also present in the food and beverage industry. If you are making your own beer or wine many of the machines do require solenoid valves to operate. You will also find them in the equipment for dispensing of beverages. And to further expand in the food industry, ice machines, dishwashers, etc. can feature solenoids or have solenoids added onto them. There are consumers out there that install solenoids on their dishwashers for emergency shut offs. Or, there are others that automatic their coffee stations and utilize them for refilling of their coffee machinery.
With today’s technological advancements, easy access to how-to guides and videos online, and creative tinkerers, the possibilities are endless.
