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Solenoid Valves

Solenoid valves Australia

Zedflo supplies industries across Australia with high-quality direct-acting and pilot-operated 2-way solenoid valves. Used in a wide variety of applications and particularly effective in demanding work conditions, our solenoid valves are designed and manufactured by industry leaders like Shako, a long-time international pioneer in pneumatic product development. These electromechanical valves provide reliable, automated control over the flow of liquids and gases, making them essential for modern industrial automation.

About our range of solenoid valves

We stock and supply both direct-acting and pilot-operated 2-way solenoid valves constructed from brass or robust 316 stainless steel, ensuring they are durable enough for the harshest or most extreme working environments.

Our solenoid valves are versatile enough for sectors including mining, oil & gas, and water treatment. They are suitable for use with air, water, gas, steam, liquids, heating oil, hydraulic oil, and fuels. Whether you need a valve for a simple on/off application or a complex process control system, we have a solution to meet your needs.

Solenoid valve variations

Our range includes several variations to suit different operational requirements:

  • Direct-Acting Solenoid Valves: In these valves, the electromagnetic plunger directly opens or closes the orifice. They are ideal for low-flow applications and can operate at zero differential pressure, offering a simple and reliable design.
  • Pilot-Operated Solenoid Valves: These valves utilise the pressure of the fluid itself to assist in opening and closing the valve mechanism. This allows a smaller solenoid coil to control high flow rates and high pressures, making them perfect for heavy industrial applications.
  • Normally Closed (NC) vs. Normally Open (NO): We offer valves in both configurations. Normally Closed valves remain closed until energised (the most common safety setup), while Normally Open valves remain open until an electric current is applied.

What is a solenoid valve?

A solenoid valve is an electrically actuated valve that uses a coil to generate a magnetic field, which in turn moves an armature inside the operator tube when energized. These valves are typically available in two standard configurations: Normally Closed (requires power to open) and Normally Open (requires power to close), not including latching variants.

Solenoid valves fall into two main operating categories: Differential and Zero Differential. This classification refers to the pressure drop needed for the valve to function.

  • Differential (also known as servo-assisted, or pilot acting) valves require a minimum pressure differential to operate
  • Zero Differential (also known as direct acting) valves can function even with no pressure head across the valve.

Most solenoid valves are manufactured in sizes ranging from ⅛” to 2″. They are also available in a variety of flow configurations such as 2-way, 3-way, and 5-way. These are commonly described using the format “ways/states”; for example, a 3/2 valve is a 3-way, 2-position solenoid valve.

How does a solenoid valve work?

Both differential and zero-differential solenoid valves rely on the same basic principle: an energized coil creates a magnetic field that moves an armature. The armature—typically made from a magnetic stainless steel—either presses onto an orifice to close it or lifts away from it to open the flow path.

In zero differential designs, the valve is either coupled diaphragm, where the armature physically lifts the diaphragm off its seat, or direct acting, where the armature itself sits directly on the seat and controls the orifice.

In differential solenoid valves, operation depends on both the armature movement and a required pressure differential. For example, in a normally closed differential valve, energizing the coil lifts the armature off the bleed-off orifice, which is larger than the bleed-on hole above the diaphragm. This allows pressure above the diaphragm to escape faster than it can be replenished. As the upper chamber pressure drops, the diaphragm is lifted, effectively opening the valve.

How to install a solenoid valve

All solenoid valves must be installed according to their designated flow direction, which is typically shown by an arrow cast into the valve body. While a solenoid valve can function in any orientation—such as sideways or even upside down—it is generally recommended to install it vertically with the coil positioned on top. This orientation helps prevent scale buildup inside the operator tube and reduces the risk of leakage, particularly in larger, low-pressure zero-differential valves.

After the valve has been fitted into the pipeline—whether threaded using nipples or mounted with flanges—it can be electrically connected. Most commonly, this is done using a DIN plug that is wired first and then attached to the coil.

Digital vs. Analogue Pressure Gauges

Get in touch with Zedflo to find out more about our solenoid valves.
Zedflo is one of Australia’s most experienced suppliers and distributors of solenoid valves, and our team is always on hand with expert advice and guidance to help you make the right choice. Contact us on 08 9302 1266 or email us at sales@zedflo.com.au and we will be happy to talk you through our range of Zedflo solenoid valves.