Solenoid clicks but doesn't move

[rthorntn]

Hi,

Schoolboy error, I purchased a couple of cheap solenoids (airtac 3v210-08 12v) from AliExpress, looks like I got internal pilot operated ones when I wanted direct.

When I apply voltage it clicks and I can see it drawing the correct current but the valve doesn't move.

In laymans terms how do you make an internal pilot actuate, apply pressure to the inlet, if the inlet always has pressure how do you switch it, by removing the voltage, why is a pilot solenoid better for automation?

Basically I want to switch the path of air between two destinations and I want to just apply voltage to the solenoid to have it switch paths, my valve will never be closed it will either be on path A or path B, what do I need?

Thanks.

Richard

[Zero999]

I'm not sure what you're asking. The type of solenoid valve you're describing needs a certain pressure differential to work properly. It will not work at very low pressures, because the pressure is required to operate the valve.

[tautech]

So this is not just some solenoid but a valve and an 'electric over air' or an 'electric over air over air valve' and not just a valve but a 'change-over' valve.
Yes such things exist so for best advice we need know exactly what this is as how it's plumbed can effect operation.
Any links ?

Are you sure you're feeding it enough current ?
How many ohms is the winding ?

[salbayeng]

OK, I found the valve on Ebay, it says "internally piloted"
So the spool won't move unless you have some minimum pressure on the P port.
You probably wanted a direct operated valve, or a poppet valve.

Most of the rectangular shaped valves (like airtac 3v210-08 12v) are designed to be mounted in a manifold, and most rectangular shaped valves are pilot operated.
Direct operated valves normally require a lot more electrical power to operate (as the solenoid magnetic field has to provide enough force to balance air pressure over the full diameter of the valve and also push against a spring that also has enough force to seal off over a large area).  On a piloted valve, only a tiny force is required because the plunger just obscures a pinhole.

Your valve also has a manual over-ride , inadvertent operation of these will cause the valve to stay open.

[rthorntn]

Thanks everyone, I ordered a VT307 direct solenoid from Aliexpress, ultimately I will probably end up with linear actuator and will injection mould the valve part.