diy ac to dc solenoid valve

retched

Joined Dec 5, 2009
5,208
It isn't only dependent on the 12vdc.
**If you can get a 12vdc coil for that solenoid, then yes.**
Washing machine solenoids are made with a spring to push against about 50psi of water pressure for your municipal water supply. Thats a pretty beefy 'noid. The WATTAGE of the coil will determine what you can open with a particular power source and for how long.

If your strapped for cash, get some 12v solenoids from your local HVAC shop or check a hobby shop for a solenoid with proper specifications. Also, aquarium centers sometimes have flow control solenoids for tank animations.

What is your projects air pistons ratings?(in psi?)
 

Thread Starter

moh

Joined Apr 23, 2009
19
I am planning to build a robotic arm from air muscle.It needs 60 to 90 psi pressure.

http://mech.eng.curtin.edu.au/staff/lindsay/teaching_interests/pneumatichand/

First link on this search is the pdf for the air muscle robotic arm

http://www.google.co.uk/#hl=en&q=lo...&oq=low+cost+humanoid+air&fp=177016bc12fe49d4



http://www.shadowrobot.com/airmuscles/overview.shtml


I need 2 valves for each muscle.One for inlet other for exhaust.
Dc solenoid valve in UK are least 13 pounds each.Ac valve like washing machine ones are 5 to 6 pounds but i am very uncomfortable with 230vac.

Thanks for the reply
 

VoodooMojo

Joined Nov 28, 2009
505
I never worked with an Air Muscle but have much mileage with other air and oil actuators of both dc and ac power.
be aware that there will be a considerable amount of more current in the lower voltage dc circuit.

pneumatic coils on 50 psi will require about 200 to 900ma at 12 volts to accomplish the task.
hydraulic 12 volt valves in many applications routinely operate with 3000 psi in their circuits with 1 to 2 amps used to fully activate the valves.

an advantage of a dc coil will allow for more controlled proportionality using pwm.

do not forget the suppression diode across the coil (except for proportional valve) on the dc set-up

the coils are available in many o.d. and i.d.sizes and can easily fit over the tubing illustrated in your link.

they are also free for the asking if due diligence is taken to ask pneumatic/hydraulic repair shop or rental yard service people if they have any used components that will be ready for the dumpster. Many manifolds will have multiple coils on them.
 

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