What is a Single Solenoid valve?
The definition of a solenoid valve is an electro-mechanical valve that is commonly employed to control the flow of liquid or gas. There are various solenoid valve types, but the main variants are either pilot operated or direct acting. Pilot operated valves, the most widely used, utilise system line pressure to open and close the main orifice in the valve body.
While Direct operated solenoid valves directly open or close the main valve orifice, which is the only flow path in the valve. They are used in systems requiring low flow capacities or applications with low pressure differential across the valve orifice.
Single Solenoid valve or Directional Control Valve – How They Work
Directional control valves are used in pneumatic systems to direct or stop the flow of compressed air or oil to their appliances. They are probably the most used elements in pneumatic systems and can be used for example to actuate a cylinder, a larger industrial valve, or air tools. The valves can have two or more ports and fulfill various circuit functions. The function and behavior of the valve can be indicated by a symbol. The symbol however doesnt explain the construction of the valve. Directional control valves can be actuated by different means, such as manual actuation or solenoid actuation.
3/2-way valve
A 3/2-way valve has three ports and two states. They are used for instance to control a single-acting cylinder. The valve is used to fill the cylinder, but also to vent the cylinder afterward to realize a new working stroke. Therefore, a valve with two ports would not be sufficient. A third port is required for venting. 3/2-way valves can be mono-stable or bi-stable. Just like 2/2-way valves, mono-stable 3/2-way valves can be normally closed or normally open.




I installed the 1/2″ Airmax Single Solenoid Valve, and it works flawlessly. The switching is quick and reliable, and the valve maintains stable airflow. Very durable and easy to install. Ideal for industrial air control systems.
The Airmax AD 20 Series 3/2 Way Single Solenoid Valve is excellent for my pneumatic automation setup. I used the 1/4″ size, and it responds very fast with zero leakage. Strong build quality and perfect for continuous operation.
Great quality solenoid valve! The Airmax AD 20 Series 1/2″ model performs consistently with high reliability. The response time is quick, and the construction feels very solid. Ideal choice for automation and pneumatic systems.
This Airmax AD 20 3/2 Single Solenoid Valve performs very well under daily use. I appreciate the smooth operation and precise flow control. Both 1/4″ and 1/2″ options are well-designed and sturdy. Excellent value.
The 3/2 Way Single Solenoid Valve from Airmax is perfect for my machine line. Fast switching, strong sealing, and no vibration issues. I’m using the 1/4″ variant, and it works exactly as expected. Highly recommended.