Introduction to Motorized valves and Solenoid Valves for Special Fluids｜Chemicals, Gases, Oils, Water, Vacuum, etc.

Fluid control plays a critical role in industrial equipment and systems. Motorized valves and solenoid valves are essential components for precise fluid control in various applications. Solenoid valves utilize the electromagnetic force to control opening and closing, offering rapid response times. Due to their rapid response, solenoid valves can be more prone to water hammer. Motorized valves, on the other hand, use a motor for opening and closing. They can handle larger bore sizes and higher pressures compared to solenoid valves. Their slower operation compared to solenoid valves makes motorized valves less susceptible to water hammer. These control valves are widely used in various industries to control a diverse range of special fluids, including chemicals, gases, oils, water, and vacuum. This section will introduce the features and selection methods for these valves, along with an overview of CKD's product lineup.

List of Fluids Compatible with CKD Solenoid Valves

CKD motorized valves and solenoid valves are designed to handle a wide variety of fluids, meeting the diverse needs of various industries. These control valves are suitable for a broad range of applications, handling both general and specialized fluids.
The following table lists the primary fluids compatible with CKD solenoid valves.

Fluid Categories	Fluid Name	Details	Compatibility
Gas	Compressed Air	Air at standard atmospheric pressure	Multi-Fluid Valve: A valve capable of handling multiple fluid types. Dedicated Fluid Valve: A valve specifically designed for a particular fluid type.
	Dry Air	Dehydrated air used to prevent corrosion and condensation	Multi-Fluid Valve: A valve capable of handling multiple fluid types. Dedicated Fluid Valve: A valve specifically designed for a particular fluid type.
	Inert Gas	Gases that do not burn or react under normal conditions Examples: Nitrogen (N2), carbon dioxide (CO2), argon (Ar), helium (He), etc.	Multi-Fluid Valve: A valve capable of handling multiple fluid types. Dedicated Fluid Valve: A valve specifically designed for a particular fluid type.
	Combustion-Supporting Gas	A gas that supports and promotes combustion Oxygen (O2)	Multi-Fluid Valve: A valve capable of handling multiple fluid types. Dedicated Fluid Valve: A valve specifically designed for a particular fluid type.
	Flammable Gas / Combustible Gas / Combustion-Supporting	A gas that readily burns under normal conditions and ignites from sparks or high temperatures Hydrogen (H2)	Gas Combustion Systems: Equipment and components used in gas combustion systems. Customizable Multi-Fluid Valve: A multi-fluid valve that can be customized to handle specific fluids (made to order).
Steam	Steam	A liquid that has been vaporized into a gas	Multi-Fluid Valve: A valve capable of handling multiple fluid types. Dedicated Fluid Valve: A valve specifically designed for a particular fluid type.
Water	Pure Water	Water containing very few impurities	Dedicated Fluid Valve: A valve specifically designed for a particular fluid type.
	Tap Water	Water supplied through a public water system	Multi-Fluid Valve: A valve capable of handling multiple fluid types. Dedicated Fluid Valve: A valve specifically designed for a particular fluid type.
	Industrial Water	Water used in industrial processes	Multi-Fluid Valve: A valve capable of handling multiple fluid types. Dedicated Fluid Valve: A valve specifically designed for a particular fluid type.
	Hot Water	Heated water	Multi-Fluid Valve: A valve capable of handling multiple fluid types. Dedicated Fluid Valve: A valve specifically designed for a particular fluid type.
Oil	Lubricating Oil	Lubricating Oil: Oil used to reduce friction in machinery.	Multi-Fluid Valve: A valve capable of handling multiple fluid types.
	Kerosene	Heating and Lighting Fuel: Liquid fuel used for heating and lighting purposes.	Multi-Fluid Valve: A valve capable of handling multiple fluid types.
	Edible Oil	Cooking Oil / Food Processing Oil: Oil used for cooking and food processing.	Multi-Fluid Valve: A valve capable of handling multiple fluid types.
Coolant	Water-Soluble Coolant, Oil-Based Coolant	Cutting Fluid: A liquid used for cooling and lubricating during machining operations.	Coolant Valve: A valve designed for coolant applications.
Fuel Gas	City Gas	City Gas: Gas supplied for various purposes in urban areas. 13A, 12A, etc.: Common types of city gas.	Gas Combustion Systems: Equipment and components used in gas combustion systems.
	Propane Gas / LPG	Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG): Primarily propane and butane, used as fuel for domestic and commercial applications. Propane (C3H8), Butane (C4H10): The main components of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
	Hydrogen (H2)
Chemicals	Inorganic Solvent	Inorganic Solvents: Solvents used to dissolve inorganic compounds. Examples: Sulfuric acid (H2SO4), hydrochloric acid (HCl), nitric acid (HNO3), etc.	Fine Chemical Liquid Valve: A valve designed for handling fine chemicals and other liquids. Life Science Components: Components used in life science applications.
	Organic Solvents	Inorganic Solvents: Solvents used to dissolve inorganic compounds. Examples: Ethanol (C2H5OH), isopropyl alcohol (IPA) (C3H8O), thinner, benzene (C6H6), etc.	Multi-Fluid Valve: A valve capable of handling multiple fluid types. Life Science Components (SUS Body): Life science components with a stainless steel (SUS) body. Sanitary Valve: A high-purity valve suitable for hygienic applications, often used with fine chemicals.
Vacuum	High Vacuum, Medium Vacuum, Low Vacuum		Multi-Fluid Valve: A valve capable of handling multiple fluid types. Life Science Components: Components used in life science applications. High Vacuum Solenoid Valve (HVB): A solenoid valve designed for high vacuum applications and compatible with fine chemicals.
Process Gas		Specialty Gases: Active gases used in semiconductor manufacturing.	Fine Chemical Gas Valve: A valve designed for fine chemical gases. Examples: AGD series.

Selecting the optimal solenoid valve for your application and operating conditions requires considering various factors beyond fluid type, including temperature, pressure, and flow rate. CKD takes a comprehensive approach, evaluating these factors to recommend the most suitable product for your needs.

Valve Selection Simulation

To meet the diverse needs of our customers, CKD provides a user-friendly simulation system that simplifies the selection of optimal fluid control components based on your specific application and operating conditions. This system streamlines the selection process, helping you quickly identify the most suitable product for your needs.

Using the valve selection simulation is easy, requiring just four simple steps:

1．Visit CKD's official website.
2．Select the "Fluid Control Components" section.
3．Input the relevant fluid conditions, including type, temperature, pressure, and flow rate.
4．Based on your input, the system will generate a list of recommended fluid control components.

How to Choose a Fluid Control Valve

Fluid control valves are essential components in industrial equipment and systems. Selecting the right valve is crucial for ensuring efficient operation and maintaining safety. This chapter provides a detailed explanation of two primary types of fluid control valves: electric valves and solenoid valves. We will highlight their distinct features and guide you in selecting the appropriate valve for your specific application.

Understanding the Two Types: Electric Valves and Solenoid Valves

Electrically operated control valves are categorized into two main types: electric valves and solenoid valves. Electric valves utilize a motor for opening and closing, while solenoid valves employ electromagnetic force for rapid operation. This section will compare the basic mechanisms and key features of these two valve types, outlining their respective advantages and helping you determine the most suitable option for your application.

Electric Valves

Electric valves are control valves that utilize an electric motor to open and close the valve element. They are well-suited for applications involving large bore sizes and high pressures.

Type	Specifications and Precautions	Application Considerations
Motorized Valve	・Suitable for applications with large bore sizes and high-pressure requirements. ・The valve opening can be precisely controlled by adjusting the motor's rotation speed and direction. ・High sealing performance minimizes fluid leakage. ・Capable of handling various control methods, including on/off and proportional control. ・Larger than solenoid valves.	・Not suitable for high-speed operation. ・Reliable closing performance is essential. ・Water hammer mitigation is desired. ・Low pressure loss is preferred.

Solenoid Valves

Solenoid valves are control valves that employ the force of an electromagnet to open and close the valve element. Their rapid response makes them widely used in various industrial applications. Solenoid valves come in three types: direct-acting, pilot-operated, and pilot-kick. Each type has a unique structure and operating principle.

Type		Specifications and Precautions	Application Considerations
Direct-Acting Motorized Valve		・Operates solely by the suction force of the solenoid (electromagnet). ・Typically features a simple and reliable structure. ・Capable of operation even at zero pressure.	・Compact design is preferred. ・High-frequency operation is desired.
Electric Valves	Pilot-Operated Solenoid Valve	・Activated by the combined suction force and fluid pressure of the solenoid. ・Compatible with large bore sizes (32A to 50A and 8A to 50A). ・Lower power consumption compared to the direct-acting type. ・Slightly more complex structure than the direct-acting type. ・Available in piston and diaphragm types, depending on the main valve structure. ・Requires a minimum working pressure differential for operation; does not operate at zero pressure differential.	・Piping diameter beyond the capacity of the direct-acting type. ・Large flow rate requirement. ・Low power consumption is desired.
	Pilot-Kick Solenoid Valve	・Utilizes a solenoid and a kick spring for actuation, powered by suction force and fluid pressure. ・Compatible with large bore sizes. ・Available in piston and diaphragm types, depending on the main valve structure. ・Capable of operation even at zero pressure differential due to the kick spring mechanism.	・Piping diameter beyond the capacity of the direct-acting type. ・Large flow rate requirement. ・The pressure difference is not well-defined.

Solenoid valves can be either normally closed (NC) or normally open (NO). NC valves are closed when de-energized and open when energized, while NO valves are open when de-energized and close when energized. The choice between NC and NO depends on the specific application.

Items to Check for Selection

Selecting the right fluid control valve requires careful consideration of various factors related to the operating environment and desired performance. The following table summarizes the key items to check during the selection process.

Items to Consider	Description
Working Fluid	Verify the type of fluid (gas, liquid, special fluid, etc.) and its properties (corrosiveness, viscosity, temperature, etc.). This information is necessary to select valves with suitable material and structure.
Working Fluid Pressure	Primary Pressure Confirm the maximum pressure, minimum pressure, and normal operating pressure during operation. Select a valve capable of withstanding the working pressure.
Fluid Temperature	Check the fluid temperature range. Special materials and designs may be necessary for high or low-temperature environments.
Ambient Temperature	Confirm the ambient temperature range. Special materials and designs may be necessary for high or low-temperature environments.
Power Supply Voltage	This information is required to determine the appropriate power supply (voltage and frequency).
Body Material	Select the appropriate material based on the fluid type and properties (corrosiveness, temperature, pressure, etc.). Examples: Brass, bronze, cast iron, aluminum, stainless steel, resin.
Required Flow Rate	Check the required flow rate and the corresponding C and Cv values (flow coefficient). This is necessary to select a valve with the appropriate bore size.
Port Size	Select the proper bore size based on the piping size and required flow rate.

If you have any questions or need to confirm specific details, please do not hesitate to contact our expert staff at CKD. We are happy to assist you.

Consult with CKD

In addition to the basic check items mentioned above, the functionality of the fluid control valve should also be considered during the selection process. The following table summarizes the key additional specifications for fluid control valves.

Function	Details
Responsiveness	Verify the type of fluid (gas, liquid, special fluid, etc.) and its properties (corrosiveness, viscosity, temperature, etc.). This information is necessary to select valves with suitable material and structure.
Working Fluid Pressure	In applications demanding rapid system response, such as automated production lines or emergency shutdown systems, high-speed and precise operation is crucial. Choose a control valve with appropriate responsiveness for your needs. Direct-acting valves offer high operating speeds, making them suitable for applications requiring rapid response. Choose a pilot valve for applications requiring a large flow rate. Response Speed Order (Fastest to Slowest): Direct-acting < Pilot-operated < Air-operated < Ball valve
Flow Rate	Ensuring an appropriate flow rate is crucial, as it directly impacts the overall system's efficiency and performance. A wide variety of port sizes and orifice sizes are available.
Water Hammer Reduction	Water hammer can shock the piping system, potentially causing damage or breakdown. If you experience significant impact noise or vibration, choose a water hammer reduction control valve. For water applications requiring water hammer reduction, we recommend FWD (Free Water Discharge) valves, air-operated valves, or ball valves.
Dry Air / Inert Gas Compatibility	Maintaining the cleanliness and purity of dry air and inert gases is essential. Choose a control valve that preserves these gas characteristics. We recommend the Z-type general-purpose Multi-Fit valve for dry air applications. For air-operated applications, diaphragm-type LAD / NAD valves are available.
High Air Flow Rate	Selecting the right control valve for high-flow-rate air control can enhance the overall system's performance and efficiency. For dedicated air applications, we offer the Pilot EXA Series pneumatic valves.
Steam Control	Steam, as a high-temperature, high-pressure fluid, requires specialized control. Using a dedicated steam valve ensures safe and efficient steam control. For steam applications, choose from the SPK Series dedicated fluid valves, general-purpose valves with H-type coils, or other suitable options.
Abnormal Pressure Increase	Excessive pressure rises can cause significant damage to the system. Choosing a control valve capable of handling abnormal pressure increases protects the system and ensures safe operation.
High Corrosion Resistance	For applications involving highly corrosive fluids or environments, use highly corrosion-resistant materials. Poppet Type: Multi-purpose, SUS body, high corrosion-resistant solenoid valve (HB). Diaphragm Type: EMB (SUS body, Teflon/PTFE diaphragm). For applications requiring exceptional corrosion resistance, we offer fine system components with all Teflon-wetted parts.
Seal Material Note: Fluid Compatibility The customer is responsible for confirming the compatibility of CKD products with their systems, machines, and equipment.	Seals are crucial for preventing fluid leaks and ensuring system safety and efficiency. Selecting the appropriate seal material based on its chemical resistance and heat resistance ensures optimal control. ・NBR (Nitrile Rubber): General purpose, suitable for air, water, etc. ・FKM (Fluoro Rubber): Suitable for acidic fluids, etc. ・EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Rubber): Suitable for alkaline fluids, etc. ・PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene): Suitable for steam, chemical liquids, etc.

By reviewing and considering these items, you can select the most suitable fluid control valve for your specific application. If you have any questions or need to confirm specific details, please do not hesitate to contact our expert staff at CKD. We are happy to assist you.

CKD Product Lineup

Solenoid Valves for Various Fluids

These solenoid valves are compatible with a wide range of fluids. We offer three control methods: direct-acting, pilot-operated, and pilot-kick. A variety of materials, orifice sizes, and options are available to meet your specific needs.

Solenoid Valves for Dedicated Fluids

These solenoid valves are specifically designed to deliver optimal performance with dedicated fluids. We offer three control methods: direct-acting, pilot-operated, and pilot-kick. We also offer thin solenoid valves featuring CKD's unique patented "swivel flow path structure."

Solenoid Valves for Steam

These solenoid valves are designed for high reliability and durability in various steam systems. We offer three control methods: direct-acting, pilot-operated, and pilot-kick. Direct-acting and pilot-kick valves can operate even at a differential pressure of 0. They feature a special sealing structure that ensures high durability and prevents steam leakage.

Solenoid Valves for Vacuum

These direct-acting solenoid valves offer high sealing force and strong vacuum retention, making them suitable for high-vacuum applications. Our product lineup includes delay vacuum solenoid valves equipped with an OFF-delay function to protect the vacuum chamber from contamination caused by oil backflow during power outages.

Air Operated Valves (Cylinder Valves)

These high-performance, air-operated control valves are compatible with various fluids, making them widely used in industrial applications. We offer a wide range of port sizes, from compact to large bore, with various body and seal materials to meet your specific needs. They are also suitable for use in clean environments.

Ball Valvesont

These high-performance, air-operated control valves are compatible with various fluids, making them widely used in industrial applications. We offer a wide range of port sizes, from compact to large bore, with various body and seal materials to meet your specific needs. They are also suitable for use in clean environments.

Components for Coolants

These high-performance components are designed for efficient control and management of coolant fluids in machine tools and cooling systems. Our lineup includes air-operated valves, check valves, and pressure switches. These components are resistant to foreign matter and compatible with a wide range of port sizes and pressure specifications.

Solenoid Valves for Dry Air

These solenoid valves are designed for use in harsh environments and are ideal for controlling dry air with an atmospheric dew point of -60°C and inert gases like nitrogen. We offer two control methods: direct-acting and pilot-kick.

Explosion-Proof 2- and 3-Port Solenoid Valves

These solenoid valves are specifically designed for use in explosion-proof areas. We offer products that comply with various international standards.

CKD: Your Partner in Valve Selection

As fluid control experts, CKD is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to help our customers solve their fluid control challenges. Valve selection is a crucial process that directly impacts system efficiency and safety.

・Unsure about the right valve for your operating conditions?
・Need to design a complex control system?
・Looking for products compatible with special fluids and environments?
・Want to achieve cost reduction and energy savings?
・Need troubleshooting or performance improvement advice?

CKD is here to help! CKD leverages its technological capabilities and wealth of experience to deliver optimal solutions tailored to each customer's unique needs. Our dedicated team of experts can assist you with a wide range of challenges, from selecting the ideal valve to designing complex control systems.

For more detailed product information and technical documentation, please visit the CKD official website, where you can access a variety of catalogs. We encourage you to utilize the latest product information and technical data available on our website.

Summary

This article provided an overview of fluid control valves, focusing on electric valves and solenoid valves. We discussed their features, selection methods, and showcased CKD's comprehensive product lineup.

It's crucial to choose between electric valves and solenoid valves based on the specific application requirements.

Selecting the appropriate fluid control valve involves considering various factors, including the working fluid's properties, pressure and temperature conditions, flow rate, and installation environment.

CKD offers various tools, such as our valve selection simulation system and product catalogs, to assist you in choosing the right valve. If you have any questions or need assistance with fluid control valves, please don't hesitate to contact CKD.