Pilot Operated Solenoid Valves | UL Recognized Electric Valves

Our UL-recognized pilot operated solenoid valves are designed for applications requiring higher flow rates, larger port sizes, and reliable performance in water, air, and general utility systems. Commonly used in OEM equipment, UL-certified control panels, commercial installations, and industrial automation, these valves use system line pressure to assist valve operation for efficient flow control.

Available in Normally Closed (NC) configurations with 110V AC, 220V AC, and 24V DC coils, our pilot operated valves provide dependable performance when the application has sufficient operating pressure.

Why Choose a Pilot Operated Solenoid Valve?

Pilot operated solenoid valves are designed for systems where available line pressure can assist valve operation. Compared to direct-acting valves, pilot-operated designs support larger port sizes and higher flow rates, making them well suited for commercial and industrial fluid control applications.

Key benefits include:

• UL-recognized components for OEM equipment and control panels
• Larger port sizes and higher flow capacity
• Reliable operation in water, air, and utility systems
• Continuous-duty operation when used within published ratings
• Suitable for commercial and industrial installations

Common Applications

Pilot-operated solenoid valves are commonly used in:

• OEM equipment
• UL-certified control panels
• Industrial automation
• Water distribution systems
• Commercial plumbing
• Compressed air systems
• Utility systems
• Manufacturing equipment

These valves are selected when higher flow capacity and UL-recognized components are required.

How Does a Pilot-Operated Solenoid Valve Work?

Unlike direct-acting valves, a pilot-operated valve uses system line pressure to help open and close the valve.

Because the valve relies on pressure assistance:

• A minimum pressure differential is required for operation.
• Pilot-operated valves are not recommended for gravity-fed or zero-pressure systems.
• They provide greater flow capacity than comparable direct-acting valves.

This operating principle makes pilot-operated valves ideal for pressurized water and air systems where higher flow rates are needed.

Choosing the Right Pilot-Operated Solenoid Valve

Media Compatibility

Pilot-operated valves in this category are designed for:

• Water
• Air
• General utility service

Always verify compatibility with the valve body and seal materials listed on the individual product page before ordering.

Normally Closed Operation

All pilot-operated valves in this category are Normally Closed (NC).

This means:

• The valve remains closed when electrical power is removed.
• The valve opens only when the coil is energized.

Normally Closed valves are commonly selected when flow should stop automatically during a power loss or when controlled startup is required.

Select the Correct Coil Voltage

Choose a coil that matches your available power source.

Matching the coil voltage to the available power source helps ensure reliable valve performance.

Pressure & Flow Rate

Pilot-operated valves are designed for higher flow systems.

When selecting a valve, review:

• Operating pressure
• Minimum pressure differential
• Flow coefficient (Cv)
• Port size

Flow should always be selected using the valve's published Cv rating and available system pressure rather than pipe size alone.

Operating Temperature

Temperature limits vary depending on the valve materials and seal configuration.

Always verify the operating temperature shown on the individual product page before installation. Pilot-operated valves in this category are designed for continuous-duty commercial and industrial applications when operated within their specified ratings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a pilot-operated solenoid valve?

A pilot-operated solenoid valve uses system line pressure to assist in opening and closing the valve. This design allows larger port sizes and higher flow rates than direct-acting valves.

When should I choose a pilot-operated valve?

Pilot-operated valves are a good choice when your system has sufficient operating pressure and requires a higher flow capacity than a direct-acting valve can provide.

Do pilot-operated valves require pressure to operate?

Yes. Pilot-operated valves require a minimum pressure differential to operate correctly and are not intended for gravity-fed or zero-pressure systems.

What media can these valves control?

These valves are designed for:

• • • Water
    • Air
    • General utility service

Always verify media compatibility for the specific valve before ordering.

What voltages are available?

Pilot-operated valves in this category are available with:

• • • • 24V DC
      • 110V AC
      • 220V AC

Select the voltage that matches your electrical supply.

Why are these valves UL Recognized?

UL-recognized valves have been evaluated as components for use in UL-certified control panels and OEM equipment. Using UL Recognized components can help support system-level compliance and simplify equipment evaluation.

Need Some Assistance?

Need Help Choosing the Right Pilot Operated Solenoid Valve?

Choosing the right pilot operated solenoid valve depends on your media compatibility, valve size, normally closed (NC) or normally open (NO) configuration, operating pressure, minimum pressure differential, coil voltage, UL recognition requirements, and flow requirements. Whether you're replacing an existing valve, specifying components for a UL-recognized control panel, designing OEM equipment, or installing a commercial or industrial fluid control system, our team can help you select the right pilot-operated solenoid valve for your application. If you're unsure which valve best fits your system, contact our valve experts for personalized product recommendations and technical assistance.