I have a 12v dc solenoid operating a open and close valve in a 15mm copper water pipe line. The plug in transformer is powered by the mains and puts out 12v dc 2A.
They both run at a very high tempreture and I am concerned they may start a fire.
Am I doing something wrong ?

 

Maybe, what are the specs of that solenoid? It could be drawing more than the 2A the transformer can supply.

 

This is the only info it had.
Model:2W160-15​

Working Medium:Air,Water,Oil
Operating Method:Direct action
Type:Normal Closed
Flow bore(mm):16​

Pipe Size:1/2"
Liquid Viscosity <20CST
Working Pressure Water,Oil:0~0.5Mpa Air:0~0.7Mpa
Max Pressure:1.0Mpa
Working Temperature: -5~85℃
Voltage Range ±10%​

 

Do you think it's worth trying a 4A

 

We need to know the voltage and current of the valves coil.

 

It only gives AC 110V DC12V

 

What I would do is connect a voltmeter to the wires going to the coil. Energize the coil and see what the voltage is. A low reading here~11volts or less usually means your power supply isn't adequate
Another thing to do if your meter has a current mode is to see if you are drawing 2 amps or more.

 

It drops to 11.56v

 

and it draws 2.63 amps

 

and it draws 2.63 amps

You need a power supply capable of at least 4 amps to run properly.
I say 4 amps because 3 amps would be at nearly 100% capacity.

 

Thanks alot gerty.
You have realy been helpful.
Solved in a couple of hours.
Excellant.

Regards
Ken

 

Thanks a lot for your help gerty.
excellent.
Ken

 

You're welcome, glad it worked out

 

Just tried a 12v dc 4A transformer and the solidnoid still gets very hot.

 

Just tried a 12v dc 4A transformer and the solidnoid still gets very hot.

Sounds like you'll have to do the voltage/current test measurements again, Hopefully you haven't damaged the solenoid with the other transformer.

 

Your Solenoid may have a mechanical fault which means the moving part needs more power to operate.
More power,more current,more current,more loss in the coil resistance.

How fast does the solenoid operate?
If it takes a fairly long time,that is in itself indicative of a mechanical fault,unless its specification quotes that speed as acceptable.