Low Powered Solenoid Valves

Solutions for Solar and Battery-Powered Low Power Draw Applications

The demand for low-power draw or reduced power consumption electrical components has exploded. With the growing demand for battery-powered personal devices and solar-powered systems, electrical solenoid valves need to reliably operate in these environments. 

Solutions range from designing a valve that only requires a burst of energy to either open or close the valve rather than needing energy to hold the valve open, to a valve design that substantially reduces the power draw once the valve is actuated. A Solenoid Solutions made-to-order custom valve is often needed to meet customer-specific application, environmental, and available power requirements.  

Latching Solenoid Valves
Latching solenoid valves offer tremendous energy savings potential by operating at much lower power than standard solenoid valves.

When energized, the coil generates a magnetic field that causes the plunger to be attracted to a stop. The stop is magnetically affixed to the top of the plunger guide. In order to remain "open", the coil must receive constant electrical power to maintain the magnetic field holding the plunger in the open position. Standard solenoid valves require full electrical power to keep the valve in an open state. 

In Latching Valves once the valve is open, the voltage required to hold the plunger could actually be reduced by approximately 80%. Learn more about latching valve operations.

Bump and Hold Circuits
A bump-and-hold circuit is a control mechanism used in solenoid valves to reduce energy consumption and heat generation while maintaining the desired valve position. The purpose of this circuit is to minimize the power required to initially actuate the solenoid valve (the "bump") and then maintain the valve in its open or closed position with reduced power consumption (the "hold").

Solar Powered Solenoid Valve Examples
Solar-powered or low-power draw solenoid valves are often used in applications where energy efficiency or remote operation is required. Here are a few applications.

Irrigation systems
Solar-powered solenoid valves are commonly used in agricultural irrigation systems, where they control the flow of water to various irrigation zones. The low power draw enables efficient use of solar energy for remote irrigation control.

Remote monitoring and telemetry systems
Remote monitoring and telemetry systems, such as environmental monitoring stations or weather sensors need low-draw solenoid valves for efficient control of fluid flow in remote locations where the power supply is limited.

Off-grid water supply
Solar-powered solenoid valves are used in off-grid water supply systems, including wells, boreholes, or remote water distribution networks. They control the flow of water for various purposes, such as livestock watering or community water access.

Sustainable Wastewater Treatment
Sustainable wastewater treatment systems, such as decentralized or off-grid treatment facilities enable efficient control of fluid flow for processes like nutrient dosing or aeration.

Remote Oil and Gas Operations
Low-power draw applications in remote oil and gas fields, such as wellheads or remote monitoring stations are common. They control the flow of fluids or gases for various processes, including well control or sampling.

Renewable energy systems
Renewable energy systems, like solar thermal or geothermal power plants, need low-power solenoid valves to control the flow of heat transfer fluids or working fluids for efficient energy conversion.

Greenhouses and Hydroponics
Low-power solenoid valves are regularly used in greenhouse and hydroponic systems, controlling the flow of water, nutrients, or gases to optimize plant growth. Solar-powered options enable energy-efficient operation in remote or off-grid setups.

Environmental Conservation Projects
Solar-powered or low-power draw solenoid valves are utilized in various environmental conservation projects, such as wildlife water stations or habitat restoration projects. They control the flow of water for critical ecosystem support while minimizing energy consumption.

Solar-powered or low-power draw solenoid valves contribute to energy efficiency, remote operation, and sustainability in different fields. They offer the advantage of reduced power consumption and can be integrated into renewable energy systems or off-grid installations.