An electrically-operated valve (also called electric-operated valve) is an integral part of an industrial automation system. You can use electrically-operated valves regulating, isolating or venting fluids. Electrically-operated valves are the simple mechanical valves with electrically-operated control mechanisms. For example, electrically-operated unloading valves are simple pump unloading valves with electrical control mechanisms.

Depending on the fluid flowing through the system, you can select an electrically-operated air valve or an electrically-operated water valve. Electrically-operated air valves are necessary for an industrial pneumatic system. Electrically-operated water valves are important for a water flow control system.

Some industries that use electrically-operated valves include mining, metalworking, chemical and food processing.

Some important parameters you must consider before purchasing an electrically-operated valve are:

1. Operating pressure range
2. Fluid flowing through the electrically-operated valve
3. Operating temperature range
4. Dimensional compatibility of the electrically-operated valve
5. Type of electrically-operated valve

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy electrically-operated valves from reputable valve manufacturers

Once you identify the valve requirements for your automation system, check out different electrically-operated valves available with different reputable valve manufacturers.

I recommend: You can buy an electrically-operated ball valve at Plast-O-Matic Valves, a reputable manufacturer of piping systems and valves for the chemical industry. Parker Hannifin supplies industrial valves including electric solenoid valves and electric air valves. If you need electrical-operated control valves, check out the products offered by George Fischer Piping Systems. You can buy electric solenoid valves or electric butterfly valves at DynaQuip Controls, an automated valve manufacturer.

Buy a specialty or customized electrically-operated valve

If standard electrically-operated valves available in the market do not meet your requirements, opt for a specialty or customized vacuum valve.

I recommend: You can buy a customized electrically-operated control valve at Emerson, a leading supplier of process-automation products. Festo is a custom manufacturer of electrically-operated valves for regulating system pressure. In addition to the broad array of standard products, Sizto Tech supplies electric solenoid valves as per customers’ requirements.

Buy electrically-operated valves from a distributor or retailer

You can compare different electrically-operated valves based on their features and prices at distributors or retailers' websites.

I recommend: You can buy electrically-operated valves at T & A Valve Industries, a valve distributor for leading manufacturers such as Rockwell, Siebe and Zwick. Check out the products supplied by M&M Controls and PEP, industrial distributors of valves and automation control devices. You can also refer to the list of electrically-operated valve suppliers at ThomasNet.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Install proper accessories such as seals, gaskets and leak detectors for your electrically-operated valves.
• •  For extreme pressure and temperature applications, consult an expert for designing and installing electrically-operated valves.
• •  Ensure proper enclosure for protection and insulation of an electrically-operated valve in corrosive and remote application areas.