When designing solenoid valves for high-pressure applications, even the smallest geometric details play a crucial role - especially in the area of the valve seat. One of the biggest challenges lies in the design of the nozzle: if it is too sharp-edged, the seal can be damaged under high pressure. The result would be a leak that could impair the functionality and operational safety of the valve.
To minimize this risk, SVS-Automation GmbH uses special nozzle geometries with a defined radius and flatter contour for high-pressure valves. This design ensures that the solenoid core with its seal comes into contact with a larger surface area. This increased contact surface significantly reduces the surface pressure on the seal. In combination with a sealing material suitable for high pressure, such as NBR with a hardness of 90 Shore or PTFE, material stress and wear can be optimized. The result is a durable, reliable valve even at operating pressures up to 100 bar.
However, this design is specifically tailored to high-pressure applications. At lower pressures - for example, up to around 40 bar - a sharp-edged nozzle offers advantages: it enables high surface pressure at specific points, which means that tightness can be reliably maintained even at lower differential pressures. For this reason, SVS-Automation GmbH prefers to use sharp-edged nozzle designs in the area of directly controlled valves for medium pressure ranges.
This differentiation shows that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for the optimal nozzle geometry and sealing material used. These depend largely on the specific area of application. The interaction between sealing material, actuating force, geometry and pressure ratio is crucial. Only this finely tuned combination can ensure that the valve remains reliably sealed under all operating conditions - whether in high-pressure applications or at lower operating pressures - and highlights the importance of experience and expertise in the development of such systems.
