Did you know that a significant portion of industrial valve failures is caused by mismatches in performance specifications? Their differences might seem subtle at first glance to engineers and procurement teams, but those differences are definitely important. Selecting the wrong valve may lead to some unanticipated losses such as time wastage, increased costs of maintenance, and even risks to life. Every valve type is unique, and understanding each valve type’s intricacies will allow you to make smarter, well-informed decisions that will guarantee durability, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness. In this article, we will discuss the main differences between a solenoid valve and a motorized valve to make it easier for you to choose the right one.
What is Solenoid Valve?
The solenoid valve is an electromechanically operated valve that controls flow of fluids or gases. It operates through an electromagnetic coil that actuates a plunger to either open or close the valve. The coil is connected to an electric current and when the current passes through the coil, it produces a magnetic field that in turn moves the plunger and regulates the opening of the valve. The position of the plunger affects the rate of the flow of the fluid or the gas, either allowing it to pass through or halting it. At the same time, the valve’s stem guides the precise movement of the spool within the valve body for flow control.
Solenoid valves are preferred due to their ease of use, fast response time, and small size, which is suitable for applications that need fast and accurate flow control.
What is Motorized Valve?
A motorized valve is a valve that is operated by an electric motor. Unlike solenoid valves which are operated by electromagnetic forces, motorized valves employ a mechanical actuator that transforms electrical signals into mechanical motion to open or close the valve. The actuator drives the valve’s piston, valve core, or valve stem, changing the position of the valve to control the flow of fluids or gases, whether it is water, gas or any other fluid.
Motorized valves capture more advanced systems than solenoid valves since they are more complex and more sophisticated in precision and control which is best for systems that require rigorous maintenance of regulated fluid flow.
Solenoid Valves vs Motorized Valves: What Sets Them Apart
| Feature | Solenoid Valve | Motorized Valve |
| Control Method | Electromagnetic coil for simple on/off control. | Electric motor for precise and gradual flow control. |
| Response Time | Fast, typically within milliseconds. | Slower, typically between 1 to 10 seconds. |
| Application Range | Ideal for low-pressure systems, water treatment, irrigation, HVAC. | Suitable for high-pressure, high-temperature systems such as chemical processing. |
| Energy Consumption | More energy-efficient with low power requirements. | Higher energy consumption due to the electric motor running continuously. |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance but susceptible to corrosion in aggressive fluids. | Requires more maintenance due to mechanical components and electrical parts. |
| Durability | Good for low-pressure applications, but may wear out faster in harsh conditions. | More durable for high-pressure and high-temperature applications. |
| Cost | Relatively inexpensive, typically $50 to $200. | More expensive, typically $200 to $1000. |
Control Method
One of the parts of comparison lying between solenoid valve and motorized valve is the control method. Solenoid valves are controlled using an electromagnet coil, making them suitable for systems that require rapid control and simple on/off control. These valves are especially useful in cases such as irrigation and water that have a need for agile control.
A motorized valve, on the other hand, is operated by an electric motor, providing a higher accuracy in valve operation. This makes them more suitable for uses which necessitate a more gradual or proportional fluid flow control by varying the valve opening position from 0% to 100%. In an industrial system, when regulating gas flow, for instance, a motorized valve can be set to gradually increase the flow rate, something that solenoid valves cannot provide.
Response Time
When comparing motorized valves and solenoid valves, response time is another factor that should be taken into account. Solenoid valves are generally faster than the pneumatic ones since the electromagnetic coil is energized and the valve responds within a few milliseconds. Motorized valves, on the other hand, may take a certain amount of time between 1 to 10 seconds to respond, since the electric motor needs time to rotate or shift some parts to change the position of the valve. However, this is countered by the fact that motorized valves provide a better option for applications requiring more precise control.
Application Range
Solenoid valves are generally employed in many applications, particularly where there is a need for rapid and intermittent flow control. Some of the applications include irrigation systems, water treatment, HVAC systems, and other low pressure systems that operate below 10 bar.
However, motorized valves are better suited for systems that require very precise flow control or those that operate at higher pressures, which is typically above 10 bar. These valves are commonly applied in industries such as chemical, oil and gas, and HVAC industries where there is a need to control the flow of fluids accurately. For instance, a motorized ball valve may be applied in a chemical processing industry where corrosion and flow control are important factors.
Energy Consumption
As for energy consumption, solenoid valves are generally more energy-saving, especially when the coil power is low. Solenoid valves are used for fast control and therefore they are less demanding in terms of power source and coil power than motorized valves. However, if your application requires frequent valve operations, motorized valves may increase power consumption and energy consumption because the electric motor has to be powered all the time.
Maintenance and Durability
When comparing solenoid and motorized valve, maintenance and durability are some of the most important aspects to consider. Solenoid valves are generally low maintenance, requiring less maintenance, as they have fewer parts and are less complex in design. However, they can be more susceptible to corrosion when used in applications that involve aggressive fluids as the materials used in the valve body and coil, which are usually metallic, are likely to corrode when exposed to chemicals or high temperatures. Also, constant opening and closing can be a problem since it may lead to overheating of the coil and thus damaging it.
Motorized valves are more suitable for high pressure and high temperature conditions but they are more likely to need maintenance because of their structure. It is also important to regularly inspect the actuator, motor and other parts that are likely to wear out frequently and apply lubricant on them. Also, the electrical parts of the valve must be checked to avoid any electrical problems that may occur.
Cost
Price is the main criterion that determines the choice between motorized valves and solenoid valves. Solenoid valves are relatively cheaper, costing between $50 and $200, and are ideal for less demanding applications. Motorized valves are more expensive than manual ones and cost between $200 and $1000 or more because of their design and construction. Nonetheless, since motorized valves are more costly at the beginning, the long-term advantages of motorized valves such as energy efficiency, fewer breakdowns, and longer service life may make it a wiser investment in the long run.
How to Choose Between Solenoid and Motorized Valves?
The choice between a solenoid valve and a motorized valve depends on the application and the needs of the user and the following factors may help in making the decision.
Flow Control: Solenoid valves are used for on/off control while motorized valves are used for fine tuning of the flow rate.
Power: Solenoid valves consume less power than the pneumatic ones, hence they are more energy-efficient in simple applications.
Valve Size: Solenoid valves are available in a wide variety of sizes while motorized valves are available in a limited range of sizes.
Media Compatibility: Motorized valves are more compatible with a wide range of media, including corrosive fluids.
Temperature: Motorized valves are suitable for high temperature applications because of their construction.
Pressure Range: Motorized valves are suitable for high pressure while solenoid valves are suitable for low pressure.
Price: Solenoid valves are cheaper than motorized valves in the initial investment, but motorized valves are more cost effective in the long run due to their durability and accuracy.
Why Choose Vincer for Your Valve Solutions?
When choosing valves, it is crucial to focus on quality and reliability of the product. Vincer is a reliable manufacturer of valves that guarantees the quality, accuracy, and durability of its products, we have completed over 800 projects, have more than 650 happy customers, and have received 30+ certifications and patents.
Whether you require solenoid valves for high-speed fluid control or motorized valves for accurate control, Vincer has a wide range of high-quality products to suit your system requirements. Our valves are built to be of high quality and stability and have a pass rate of 95% and above to withstand the most challenging conditions. This commitment to quality means that you get valves that are right for your application and will provide long-term value and performance.
If you are still in doubt as to which valve type is most suitable for your application, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us for further details and advice.
Final Thought
The decision of whether to use a solenoid valve or a motorized valve depends on the application and the purpose of the valve. Motorized valves are more suitable for applications that require accurate flow regulation, high pressure, or high temperature while solenoid valves are suitable for applications that require fast opening and closing of the valve in relatively cheaper applications. It is important to know the differences in control method, response time and energy consumption to make the right choice of the valve for the best performance and productivity.