Industrial Valves: Pneumatic Actuators and Solenoid Valves
Asian Scales Team
May 10, 2024
Comprehensive guide to pneumatic actuators and solenoid valves for industrial automation, including specifications, applications, and selection criteria.
Industrial Valves for Automation
We provide trading services for pneumatic and solenoid valves, along with a wide range of industrial equipment tailored to client needs. Our offerings ensure high-quality, reliable products for automation, manufacturing, and process control, backed by timely delivery and expert support.

Pneumatic Valves and Actuators
What is a Pneumatic Actuator?
A pneumatic actuator or valve is a mechanical device that converts compressed air energy into motion, either linear or rotary. They are used in automated systems to control valves, dampers, or other equipment, and are common in industries for their reliability and use of compressed air.

Pneumatic valves deliver precise control of air and gas flow in industrial automation systems. Designed for reliability and efficiency, they enhance performance in actuators, cylinders, and process control applications, making them ideal for manufacturing, weighing, and automated systems.
Types of Pneumatic Valves
Directional Control Valves
These valves control the direction of air flow in pneumatic systems:
- 2-Way Valves: Simple on/off control
- 3-Way Valves: Direct air to one port while exhausting another
- 4-Way Valves: Control double-acting cylinders
- 5-Way Valves: Advanced control with multiple flow paths
Flow Control Valves
Regulate the speed of pneumatic actuators by controlling air flow rate:
- Meter-in control for extending speed
- Meter-out control for retracting speed
- Adjustable for fine-tuning operation
Pressure Control Valves
Maintain consistent pressure in pneumatic systems:
- Pressure regulators for consistent supply pressure
- Pressure relief valves for system protection
- Pressure sequence valves for multi-stage operations
Pneumatic Valve Applications
- Cylinder Control: Precise positioning and movement of pneumatic cylinders
- Automated Filling: Control of filling heads in LPG and liquid systems
- Material Handling: Actuation of grippers, clamps, and transfer mechanisms
- Process Control: Flow control in chemical and manufacturing processes
- Weighing Systems: Gate and valve control in batching applications
Advantages of Pneumatic Systems
- Clean and safe energy source
- Fast response times
- Simple and reliable operation
- Intrinsically safe for hazardous environments
- Low maintenance requirements
- Cost-effective for many applications
Solenoid Valves
What is a Solenoid Valve?
A solenoid valve is an electrically operated valve that controls the flow of a liquid or gas. It works by using an electromagnetic coil to move a plunger, which opens or closes an orifice to start or stop the flow through the valve body.

We offer high-quality solenoid valves with versatile coil options including 24VDC, 12VDC, 6VDC, and 220VAC. These valves provide reliable control of liquids and gases in industrial automation, weighing systems, and process applications, ensuring precision, efficiency, and long-lasting performance.

How Solenoid Valves Work
When electrical current is applied to the solenoid coil, it creates a magnetic field that moves an internal plunger or armature. This movement either opens or closes the valve orifice, controlling fluid flow. When power is removed, a spring typically returns the valve to its default position.
Types of Solenoid Valves
Normally Closed (NC)
The valve is closed when de-energized and opens when power is applied. This is the most common configuration for safety and energy efficiency.
Normally Open (NO)
The valve is open when de-energized and closes when power is applied. Used when flow must continue during power failures.
Bistable or Latching
Maintains position after a power pulse, reducing energy consumption. Requires pulse in opposite polarity to change state.
Solenoid Valve Configurations
- 2-Way Valves: One inlet, one outlet for simple on/off control
- 3-Way Valves: Divert flow between two outlets or from two inlets
- 4-Way Valves: Control reversible operations
Voltage Options
We supply solenoid valves in various voltages to meet your system requirements:
- 24VDC: Most common for industrial automation and PLC control
- 12VDC: Battery-powered and mobile equipment applications
- 6VDC: Special applications and low-power systems
- 220VAC: Direct line voltage operation
Solenoid Valve Applications
- LPG Systems: Cylinder filling control and emergency shutoff
- Chemical Dosing: Precise liquid injection in process control
- Washing Systems: Water and detergent control
- Compressed Air: Air line control and blow-off systems
- Irrigation: Automated water distribution
- Medical Equipment: Precise fluid control in healthcare devices
Selecting the Right Valve
Key Selection Factors
Choose valves based on these critical parameters:
Media Type
- Gas, liquid, or steam
- Chemical compatibility with valve materials
- Viscosity and particulate content
Pressure Rating
- Operating pressure range
- Maximum allowable pressure
- Pressure drop across the valve
Flow Rate
- Required flow capacity (Cv factor)
- Port size and orifice diameter
- Response time requirements
Environmental Conditions
- Operating temperature range
- Ambient conditions and exposure
- Electrical classification (hazardous areas)
Material Selection
Valve body and seal materials must be compatible with the process media:
- Brass: General purpose for air, water, and light oils
- Stainless Steel: Corrosive media and food/pharmaceutical applications
- Plastic (PVC, PP): Chemical resistance and cost-effectiveness
- Aluminum: Lightweight applications with corrosion resistance
Valve Maintenance
Preventive Maintenance Practices
- Regular inspection for leaks and damage
- Cleaning of valve internals as recommended
- Testing of solenoid coils for electrical continuity
- Replacement of seals and O-rings on schedule
- Lubrication of moving parts where specified
Common Issues and Solutions
- Valve Won't Open: Check electrical supply, coil continuity, and pilot pressure
- Leaking: Inspect seals, clean valve seat, check for damage
- Slow Response: Verify supply pressure, check for contamination
- Overheating: Ensure correct voltage, check for mechanical binding
Quality and Support
We source valves from trusted manufacturers known for quality and reliability. Our inventory includes:
- Premium brands with proven performance
- Comprehensive technical specifications
- Certification and compliance documentation
- Readily available spare parts
- Technical support for selection and troubleshooting
Our Services
- Product Selection Assistance: Help choosing the right valve for your application
- Technical Specifications: Detailed product information and drawings
- Timely Delivery: Efficient logistics and inventory management
- After-Sales Support: Installation guidance and troubleshooting help
- Custom Solutions: Special configurations and manifold assemblies
Partner for Industrial Components
Whether you need pneumatic actuators, solenoid valves, or other industrial automation components, we provide quality products backed by expert support. Our trading services ensure you get the right components at competitive prices with reliable delivery. Contact us to discuss your valve requirements or to request a quote for your automation project.