Thread: Solenoid Valve Help

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What is the maximum air pressure that a standard washing machine solenoid valve can handle?
I'm trying to add several pneumatic props this year.
I've had one prop for a few years that requires at least 60 psi to operate. I got lucky when I built that one and found a good surplus valve.
I'v not been able to find any other solenoid valves (on the cheap) that will operate at that pressure.
I haven't tried a washing machine valve yet, just surplus pneumatic solenoid valves that I stumble upon.

Any other expertise that you can offer to help me find and use solenoid valves that will operate in that pressure range would be appreciated.

If it were me, I would just order a proper solenoid valve from somewhere like automationdirect.com or frightprops.com.

They are really not that expensive. That way you know that it can handle the PSI and it is the most safe. Safety really should be the highest concern.

I agree, get a real valve made for pneumatics and stay away from the valves not intended for this use. The cost difference is not that great and the headaches that come from the washer valves can be avoided.

i use a lawn srpinkler control valve for my trash can trauma.. But i dont know the psi limits.. but they are chhep & east to find at home-of-pot
here is an old link w pix

My new Trash Can Trauma 2008

Originally Posted by lancekik

i use a lawn srpinkler control valve for my trash can trauma.. But i dont know the psi limits.. but they are chhep & east to find at home-of-pot
here is an old link w pix

My new Trash Can Trauma 2008

Yikes, I would be really hesitant to do what you did. I just installed those same solenoids in my drip irrigation system this summer, and they are most definitely not rated for air. What PSI do you have your regulator set to at the input end of your solenoid (or your compressor's regulator)? If you crank the PSI too high, those PVC solenoids could explode, sending PVC shrapnel everywhere. Hopefully your trash can will contain most of the fragments. There's a reason that pneumatic solenoids are usually made with metals.

All of them aren't made from metal every one of the white valves in this picture are made from plastic which if you checked into it a little more I would say the plastic is some form of PVC.

And most if not all of the push on fittings are made of the same thing and they seem to hold up when under pressure.

MMmmm shrapnel...
im no pro & mabye h20 & air psi are diff but the site says 150psi

http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1...atalogId=10053

Im actuall more afraid of the bike pump blowing up.. I think i only had it set around 35 0r 40 I cant remember havent used it for a coule years..

But warnigs are always good... So dont do what I did... LOL

Actually the polyurethane tubing would blow before the fittings and the sprinkler valve, right?

if i remember i did buy poly tubing that was rated 100psi but I cut a hole in it for the bleeder valve which IM Sure did weeken the PSI value sevearly.. Fun Stuff.. FYI I always uses goggles when creating.... & sudgest you all do to.. pulp flies baby

I don't think washingmachine valves will work anyway. They only open and close. You need exhaust for an air cylinder don't you?
Pete