In addition to digitalization and networking, energy efficiency in particular is driving development in fluidics. One example is valves with electromagnetic actuators, which are often used to switch fluids automatically.
To ensure that the coils of the solenoids develop high attraction forces and still require little energy, they are usually controlled via electronics. The fluidics specialist Bürkert Fluid Control Systems from Ingelfingen has energy-saving solutions with double coils and so-called kick and drop electronics in its range of solenoid valves. The valves consume up to 80 % less energy than conventional solutions. The coil is initially overexcited by a high voltage pulse in order to generate the high pull-in force required to open the valve. After a few milliseconds, the electronics integrated in the overpressed coil switch to an energy-saving holding mode. The technology is particularly suitable for permanently open valves, such as gas or tap water safety valves and battery-buffered drainage systems.
