How to choose a piezoelectric valve? 9 key points covered comprehensively.

### How to Choose a Piezoelectric Valve? 9 Key Points Covered

In the fields of industrial automation, fluid control, and precision instruments, piezoelectric valves have become indispensable key components due to their high precision, fast response, and low energy consumption. However, faced with a dazzling array of piezoelectric valve products on the market, how to select the one that best meets your application needs has become a challenge for many engineers and procurement personnel. This article will help you systematically understand and choose piezoelectric valves based on nine key points.

#### 1. Clarify Application Scenarios and Requirements

First, clarifying the specific scenarios and requirements for the application of the piezoelectric valve is fundamental. This includes understanding the type of fluid to be controlled (gas, liquid), working pressure range, flow requirements, working temperature, and whether special features such as explosion-proof and corrosion resistance are needed. Different application scenarios have distinctly different requirements for the materials, structure, and performance of piezoelectric valves.

#### 2. Choose the Right Piezoelectric Drive Technology

The core of the piezoelectric valve lies in its piezoelectric driving element, which commonly includes piezo stacks, piezo chips, and piezo films. Piezo stacks typically provide greater driving force and stroke, suitable for high-pressure and large-flow applications; while piezo chips and films, due to their fast response and small size, are more suitable for micro-flow control and fast switching applications. Choosing the appropriate driving technology based on actual needs is crucial.

#### 3. Consider Valve Type and Structure

Piezoelectric valves can be classified into various types based on their structure, including normally open, normally closed, two-way, and three-way valves. Normally open valves remain open when power is off, suitable for scenarios requiring rapid pressure or fluid release; normally closed valves are the opposite, suitable for situations requiring safe isolation. Two-way valves are simple to control and suitable for unidirectional fluid control; three-way valves can achieve more complex fluid switching logic. Correctly selecting the valve type can effectively enhance system efficiency and safety.

#### 4. Evaluate Response Time

Response time refers to the time required from receiving the control signal to the valve being fully opened or closed. For systems requiring high-precision time control, such as inkjet printing and high-speed liquid dispensing, a fast-responding piezoelectric valve is crucial. When selecting, carefully review the response time parameters in the product description and evaluate them based on actual needs.

#### 5. Durability and Lifespan

The durability and lifespan of piezoelectric valves directly relate to the stability of the system and maintenance costs. This depends on various factors such as the choice of valve materials, manufacturing processes, and sealing designs. Inquiring suppliers about the valve's cycle count, wear resistance test data, and whether there is long-term warranty service are effective means to assess durability.

#### 6. Consider Electromagnetic Compatibility

In some applications with complex electromagnetic environments, the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of piezoelectric valves becomes an issue that cannot be ignored. Ensuring that the selected piezoelectric valve meets relevant EMC standards, can withstand external electromagnetic interference, and does not generate interference signals is crucial for ensuring stable system operation.

#### 7. Integration and Control Interfaces

With the increase in automation levels, the integration and compatibility of control interfaces of piezoelectric valves have become increasingly important. Choosing piezoelectric valves that support mainstream communication protocols (such as RS-485, CAN bus, Ethernet/IP, etc.) can facilitate integration with control systems like PLCs and DCS, simplifying system design and debugging processes.

#### 8. Cost-Benefit Analysis

When selecting piezoelectric valves, cost is naturally an important factor. In addition to direct purchase costs, installation costs, operating energy consumption, maintenance expenses, and indirect costs such as losses due to downtime should also be considered. Conducting a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis helps make a more economically reasonable choice.

#### 9. Supplier Service and After-sale Support

Finally, a reliable supplier and a good after-sale service system are also factors that cannot be ignored when selecting piezoelectric valves. Choosing suppliers with rich industry experience, capable of providing technical support, quickly responding to customer needs, and having a complete after-sale service network will provide solid assurance for your procurement decisions.