Does the 2/2 Ways Solenoid Valve need cleaning?

1. Why Does a 2/2 Way Solenoid Valve Need Cleaning?

Preventing Valve Spindle Seizure (The Most Common Problem)
Sources of Impurities: Rust, scale, particles, oil, etc., in the pipeline.

Consequences: These impurities can enter the tiny gap between the valve core (moving iron core) and the sleeve (stationary iron core) of the solenoid valve. When impurities accumulate to a certain extent, they will hinder the normal movement of the valve core, causing the solenoid valve to fail to open or close. This problem is particularly prominent for direct-acting solenoid valves.

Ensuring Sealing Performance
Impact of Impurities: Impurities can adhere to the valve port gasket (usually made of rubber or plastic) or scratch the valve port sealing surface.

Consequences: This leads to incomplete closure of the solenoid valve and internal leakage. Even when the coil is energized to close, the medium will continue to flow, failing to achieve complete shut-off. This is fatal for systems requiring strict shut-off.

Ensure the coil functions properly
Although the coil itself is sealed, excessive dust and oil in the external environment, especially corrosive oil, can corrode the coil leads or casing, potentially leading to short circuits or burnout in the long run.
Keep the orifice clear (critical for pilot-operated solenoid valves).
For pilot-operated solenoid valves, the pilot orifice is very small. Impurities in the medium can easily clog the pilot orifice, preventing the pilot valve from establishing a pressure differential and causing the main valve to malfunction.

2. When should a 2/2 Ways Solenoid Valve be cleaned?

Consider cleaning the solenoid valve if the following symptoms occur:
Does not operate after being energized (valve cannot open).
Does not close after being de-energized (valve does not close tightly).
Medium flow is obstructed, with a significant decrease in flow rate.
The coil overheats severely (possibly due to a stuck valve core, causing excessive coil current).

3. How to clean a 2/2 Ways Solenoid Valve? (Brief Steps and Precautions)

Important Note: Before starting any operation, always disconnect the power supply and shut off the medium source, depressurize the pipeline, and ensure safety!

Disassembly: Carefully remove the solenoid valve from the pipeline.
Disassembly: Unscrew the coil assembly, then disassemble the valve body. Remember the order and orientation of each part; it's best to take photos for documentation.

Cleaning:
Valve Core and Valve Chamber: Blow clean with clean compressed air. For stubborn stains, soak and brush with kerosene, alcohol, or a specialized cleaning agent (Note: The cleaning agent must be compatible with the sealing material to avoid corrosion).
Seals: Clean separately with a mild cleaning agent, check for aging or damage, and replace if necessary.
Throttle Orifice: For pilot valves, carefully unclog the pilot orifice with a fine needle or ultra-fine steel wire.

Drying and Reassembly: After ensuring all parts are completely dry, reassemble. A small amount of suitable grease (such as silicone grease, compatible with the medium) can be applied to moving parts such as the valve core. Test: Reinstall it onto the pipe, but without power, and manually test whether it can switch on and off. Then power it on and test whether its function is restored to normal.