Control Solenoïd Valve Proportionally w/166Hz PWM

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around controlling a solenoid valve proportionally using a 166Hz PWM signal. Participants explore the implications of using an oscillating signal versus a pure DC signal, the necessary current requirements, and the appropriate methods for generating the PWM signal in LabVIEW.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes the resistance of the solenoid coil and estimates that the effective current will be higher due to the oscillating nature of the PWM signal.
  • Another participant questions the purpose of using PWM for a solenoid, suggesting that solenoids are typically either ON or OFF.
  • There is a suggestion that a power amplifier will be necessary to generate the PWM signal from LabVIEW, given the limited current draw from the digital output.
  • A participant mentions that there are electrically operated proportional valves, indicating that more voltage results in a greater opening of the valve.
  • The original poster confirms that the valve operates at 24V and is indeed proportional, but lacks a datasheet for the coil.
  • There is a suggestion that a driver may be needed instead of just a transistor to control the solenoid effectively.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the necessity and implementation of PWM for solenoid control, with some advocating for the use of a driver while others question the need for PWM in this context. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to take.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the absence of a datasheet for the solenoid coil, which may limit the ability to provide specific recommendations. There is also uncertainty about the exact type of valve and its specifications.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in solenoid valve control, PWM signal generation, and those working with LabVIEW in experimental or applied settings may find this discussion relevant.

Charly Segaert
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Hello everyone,

I have to control a solenoïd valve proportionally using a 166Hz PWM signal. The resistance of the coil is 2,5-4 ohm. If i'd be using a pure DC signal I'd have around 8 amps of power. However this is an oscillating signal. Since a coil resists changes in current, the effective current will be higher I guess?

I want to create this signal using a digital output in Labview. The problem is that I can only draw a few milliamps from the output. Is it sufficiënt to intensify the signal using a transistor or mosfet? Or do I need to find a complete printed circuit with filters,...?

Thanks for your answer
 
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Charly Segaert said:
Hello everyone,

I have to control a solenoïd valve proportionally using a 166Hz PWM signal. The resistance of the coil is 2,5-4 ohm. If i'd be using a pure DC signal I'd have around 8 amps of power. However this is an oscillating signal. Since a coil resists changes in current, the effective current will be higher I guess?

I want to create this signal using a digital output in Labview. The problem is that I can only draw a few milliamps from the output. Is it sufficiënt to intensify the signal using a transistor or mosfet? Or do I need to find a complete printed circuit with filters,...?

Thanks for your answer
Usually a solenoid will be ON or OFF. What is tue purpose of the PWM?

And yes, if you want to use LabView to generate the PWM, you will need a power amplifier. What is the solenoid coil voltage? Can you post a link to the datasheet?
 
berkeman said:
Usually a solenoid will be ON or OFF. What is tue purpose of the PWM?

And yes, if you want to use LabView to generate the PWM, you will need a power amplifier. What is the solenoid coil voltage? Can you post a link to the datasheet?
While I am not 100% sure of the type of valve, there are electrically operated valves that are proportional. More voltage gets the valve farther open. Known as proportioning valves. Common on hydraulics nowadays.
-
As to the original question, you will need some type of driver. I would assume the manufacturer of the valve would offer you something. That is if it is a true proportioning valve.
 
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The valve works on 24V and has the function to control an amount of flow, so it is indeed proportional.
Sadly I do not have a datasheet of the coil, it's used very often on high pressure pumps of Bosch.

So I need to search for a drive instead of only using a transistor?

Thanks
 

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