Solenoid Valve Selection Guide – Choose the Right Valve for Your Application

Find the Right Solenoid Valve – Quickly and Confidently

Selecting the correct solenoid valve is critical for system efficiency, safety, and longevity. Whether you're handling air, water, steam, oil, chemicals, or gas, this guide walks you through every key factor to ensure the best valve for your application.

Step-by-Step Solenoid Valve Selection Criteria

Use the checklist below to determine the most suitable solenoid valve:

1. Define the Media Type

Liquids: water, oils, fuel, chemicals

Gases: air, steam, natural gas, CO₂

Aggressive or corrosive media: acids, alkalis, solvents

Use valves with PTFE, FKM, or EPDM seals for chemically aggressive fluids. (see chemical guides)

Select valves according to media type here.

2. Determine the Valve Function

Normally Closed (NC) – Valve stays closed until energised

Normally Open (NO) – Valve stays open until energised

Bi-stable/Latching – Holds position after pulse

Note: NC valves are most common for safety and default-off configurations.

Select valves according to function here.

3. Select Direct-Acting or Pilot-Operated

Direct-acting: No minimum pressure required – ideal for low-pressure or zero-pressure systems

Pilot-operated: Requires pressure differential – better for higher flow rates and larger pipe sizes

Note: For small bore or precise control, choose direct-acting. For energy efficiency and higher flow, go with pilot-operated valves.

4. Choose the Right Valve Material

Depending on media compatibility and operating conditions:

Material	Best For
Brass	Water, air, inert gases
Stainless Steel	Corrosive or high-purity applications
Plastic (PA, PVC, PTFE)	Lightweight, chemical resistance
Aluminium	High-flow and gas applications

5. Check Pressure and Temperature Ratings

Confirm operating pressure range (bar/psi)

Ensure chemical compatibility for seals and body

Steam and hot media valves often require high-temp PTFE or FKM seals

Note: Match valve specs with system operating conditions to avoid failures.

6. Select Correct Coil Voltage

Common voltages include:

12V / 24V DC

24V / 110V / 230V AC

Also consider:

Duty cycle (intermittent or continuous use)

Power consumption and heat generation

7. Choose Connection Type and Size

Threaded (BSP/NPT) – Standard for most applications

Flanged – For industrial and high-flow installations

Push-fit or barbed – Often used in pneumatic or low-pressure systems

Note: Pipe size and flow rate should always be aligned with valve bore diameter.

View valves by port thread, flange, Push + barbed connection here.

Typical Solenoid Valve Applications

HVAC systems

Irrigation and water control

Compressed air and vacuum systems

Natural gas and propane shut-off

Industrial automation and process control

Food-grade and pharmaceutical production

Need Expert Help Choosing? We’re Here to Assist

If you’re still unsure which solenoid valve fits your system, contact our expert team. We’ll help you match media type, pressure, voltage, and functionality for an optimised setup.