SpudFiles

I am starting to make plans for paint sprayer that is electronicaly operated with a sprinkler valve. The valve does not have to open fast, but it can't be to slow either. I won't be modding the valve for a blowgun or anything since it needs to be electonically operated.

What is the lowest possible voltage that would be needed to operate the soliniod on the sprinkler valve?

Hi,

You can get sprinkler valves with 5 volt solenoids, but they cost more..

Regards
Soren

Is there a specific name for the lower voltage sprinkler valve or would if be something like "Low voltage Sprinkler valve".

why? just use regular voltage

darkmilk wrote:why? just use regular voltage

Because that is not an option from the power source. If I could use regular voltage, I would.

Well, the sprinkler valve i have I think is about 14v or 16v I haven't checked in ages but a 9 volt battery worked it well enough.

The voltage is only going to be 3-5 volts.

you can also get solenoids that plug into the wall outlet if im not mistaken...

whats ur power source, is it a keychain remote, then just hook it up to a relay and then use higher voltage batteries

My power source is a battery operated alarm clock.

I don't think you'll be able to get enough ooomph from 3~5volts.

Like darkmilk suggested, run the low voltage from the clock to a 3~5V relay. Then have the relay switch a 9V, or two 9v's in series, to operate the solenoid.

Of, replace the solenoid with a power transistor or SCR.

Thanks for everyones help.

Solid state switching, FTW!

Hi,

As for the types of those low voltage valves, I suggest you check the web catalogs of the manufacturers - I only know Rain Bird here, but other places have many more. I think they are listed as "5 volt version".

Alternatives:

- Wind your own coil, but that needs some engineering and is boring to do.
- Add a higher voltage supply, and have a transistor switch it
- Use a step-up converter

Regards
Soren

a small solenoid from a washing machine or dishwasher perhaps?