Understanding 2/3-Way and 2/5-Way Solenoid Valves

In pneumatic (or hydraulic) circuits:
    A 2/3-way solenoid valve has: 1 inlet (from air supply), 1 outlet (to actuator), and 1 exhaust port (typically fitted with a silencer; optional if noise is acceptable).
    A 2/5-way solenoid valve has: 1 inlet, 1 forward outlet + 1 reverse outlet (to drive double-acting cylinder), and 1 forward exhaust + 1 reverse exhaust (with silencers).
    For small automation equipment, 8–12 mm industrial air tubing is typical. We recommend using our company’s reliable brand of solenoid valves.

In electrical terms:

    2/3-way valves are usually single-coil; 2/5-way valves are typically double-coil. Common coil voltages: DC24V, AC220V.

    2/3-way valves come in NC (closed when de-energized) and NO (open when de-energized) types.
    • NC 2/3-way: Energize → open; de-energize → close (“momentary”).
    • NO 2/3-way: Energize → close; de-energize → open (“momentary”).

2/5-Way Double-Solenoid Operation:

    Energize “forward” coil → forward port opens and latches (remains open after de-energizing) until “reverse” coil is energized.
    Energize “reverse” coil → reverse port opens and latches until “forward” coil is re-energized. This is “self-locking” behavior.
    Leveraging this, PLC or control logic can pulse the coil for just 1–2 seconds—protecting the coil from overheating and extending service life.