Test Solenoid Valve Control Circuits Without Shutting Down the Main System

Posted by John A. Hatcher on Feb 25, 2021 8:45:00 AM
John A. Hatcher

Versa Products is excited to announce a valve option for testing solenoid valve control circuits in applications where closing down or “shutting in” the system is not an option. With Versa’s stainless steel bypass valves, users can test or replace a component within the circuit without shutting down the main system.

Typical circuit for a solenoid valve

A schematic of a typical circuit where this type of solenoid bypass valve would be a good fit. 

The solenoid valve is is a single valve that is simple to apply and operate. It is a three-position manual valve that functions as follows:

  • Position 1 - The normal position or regular operation mode.
  • Position 2 - Places the control circuit in test mode. In this position, the bypass valve allows for pressure to the circuit for testing while maintaining pressure on the actuator. With pressure to the solenoid inlet and solenoid circuit outlet blocked/isolated, this position allows complete testing of the solenoid circuit without shutting down the system.
  • Position 3 - Places the control system in a replace mode. If it is determined that a component in the control circuit needs to be repaired or replaced, this position allows for total isolation from pressure while still holding system pressure to the actuator.

This solenoid bypass valve is based on Versa’s proven C-316 or V-316 series high-flow valves. Actuation is available as a rotary switch or key operated and optional position indication is also available. Below is a chart comparing the features of the 1/4" and 1/2" options along with an image of one of the valves.

  1/4" Solenoid Bypass Valve 1/2" Solenoid Bypass Valve
Function Custom circuit three-position Custom circuit three-position
Actuator Manual, detented Manual, detented
Pressure 0 - 150 psi (0-14 bar) 0 - 200 psi (0-14 bar)
Flow 2.0 Cv in normal position 5.5 Cv in normal position
Temperature 5ºF (-15ºC) to 300ºF (149ºC) 5ºF (-15ºC) to 300ºF (149ºC)
Ports 1/4" npt 1/2" npt
Media Air, inert gas, natural gas, and hydraulic Air, inert gas, natural gas, and hydraulic
Body Material 316 stainless steel 316 stainless steel
Actuator Material 316 stainless steel 316 stainless steel
Seal Material FKM FKM
Position indicator option Suffix -9SE Suffix -9E
Low temp. Buna option Suffix -44 Suffix -44

 

Bypass_Solenoid

This valve is the VAU-450X-316-357E-9E-2039, which is a 1/2" valve that includes a rotary actuator and detent with plunger extension.

 

To learn more about this product, download the product bulletinVisit VersaSelect to view the full selection of Solenoid Bypass options, or place an order.

 

 

Topics: Solenoid

 

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