Solenoid valves control the flow of fluids and gases. Valve coils are integral to the functioning of a solenoid valve. More than this, selecting the right solenoid valve coil can make a significant difference in the efficiency, durability, and overall performance of your industrial systems.
The choice of valve coil comes down to kick and drop valve coils versus standard coils. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences, advantages, and potential drawbacks of each coil type, helping you determine which is best suited to your operational needs.
Got a question? Our expert team can help specify a part for your production, call 0151 3439966 or email sales@finecontrols.com for the fastest response.
Kick and drop valve coils initially operate at a high voltage to create an electromagnetic field which moves the valve to its open or closed position. Once in the desired position, the voltage is reduced to a lower level, reducing energy consumption in turn. Hence, "kick" refers to the initial high-powered activation required to move the valve, while the "drop" signifies a switch to a lower holding current.
This energy-saving design makes these valves ideal for applications requiring long hold times without sacrificing performance.
To recap, a kick and drop valve coil works by:
Kick phase: Initially, a high current is applied to generate a strong magnetic force, allowing the valve to open or close rapidly.
Drop phase: After the valve reaches its desired position, the current is reduced to a lower level, just enough to keep the valve in place. This minimises energy use while maintaining control over fluid flow.
Four major benefits of kick and stop valve coils can be summarised as: energy efficiency; rapid actuation, reduced heat generation and high reliability. Let’s examine these advantages in more detail.
1. Energy Efficiency
Kick and drop valve coils deliver energy savings of up to 80%. Whereas traditional solenoid valves often require a continuous high current to remain actuated, kick and drop valves reduce the current after actuation, significantly lowering overall energy consumption. This makes kick and drop valve coils especially attractive for industries with a focus on lowering energy and operational costs.
2. Rapid Actuation
With up to 200% more activation power, Kick and drop valve coils benefit from rapid response times. Coupled with fast switching, these valves provide fast opening and closing times, making them ideal for applications where timing is critical, such as in pneumatic systems or process automation.
3. Reduced Heat Generation
Constantly powering a traditional solenoid valve can lead to significant heat buildup, which may shorten the lifespan of components or even cause operational failures. Kick and drop solenoid valves, however, generate less heat due to their reduced power consumption after the initial actuation. The result? Improved durability and improved safety.
4. High Reliability
By maintaining a lower holding current after actuation, kick and drop solenoid valves are not only more energy-efficient but also more reliable. The reduced electrical load on the system minimises wear and tear, enhancing overall valve longevity.
Kick and drop solenoid valve coils have a wide range of applications. This type of solenoid is particularly suited to harsh environments or applications involving water lines. As the coil does not heat up to 60 degrees or higher, the risk of calcification is minimised if not eliminated.
Popular use cases for kick and drop solenoid valves include: pneumatic systems, chemical processing, pharmaceuticals and food and beverage production. Data centres and refrigeration systems can also significantly benefit from the energy efficiency and low heat output of these valves.
A standard solenoid valve coil is an electromagnet that creates a magnetic field when an electric current passes through it. This force changes the valve’s state - either opening or closing it. The coil remains energised as long as the valve needs to stay in its current position. Standard coils are widely used across many industries.
Cost-effective, easy to use, reliable performance and versatility are four reasons why engineers chose standard solenoid valve coils.
Commonly used in HVAC systems, irrigation systems, and general-purpose industrial fluid control, standard solenoid valve coils work best where flow is regulated on a routine basis and where rapid actuation or energy efficiency are not the primary concerns. Standard solenoid valves excel at stable performance and offer simplicity; making them an attractive choice for environments that are not sensitive to reduced energy output or reduced heat output.
Choosing the right solenoid valve for your application ultimately depends upon your overall operational goals and the nature of your operation. The table below summarises the key differences between kick and drop coils and standard coils across six major considerations.
In short, for engineers looking to reduce energy costs while maintaining efficiency, kick and drop solenoid valves are a reliable and cost-effective solution. Furthermore, the extended lifespan of kick and drop valves is attractive to many. For those applications where calcification is a consideration, kick and drop valves are a clear winner due to their low heat output.
By comparison, standard solenoid coils have the advantage of being a “ready to go” system with easy integration and steady voltage.
Not sure which valve coil is right for you? At Fine Controls, we have a large in-stock range of solenoid valves from leading brands. Our process control experts have over 25 years experience in optimising plant productivity - we can specify, procure and calibrate industrial and commercial process control applications.
Call 0151 3439966 or email sales@finecontrols.com for advice.
Contact our technical sales advisors here.
Our team of engineers are fully equipped to provide bespoke system design and manufacture.
This process involves specifying, procuring, calibrating and maintaining instrumentation and control systems for industrial and commercial process control applications.
Call our technical sales team for advice
This site uses cookies to monitor site performance and provide a more responsive and personalised experience. You must agree to our use of certain cookies. For more information on how we use and manage cookies, please read our Privacy Policy.
