Proportionally controlled solenoids are used in fluid-power valve applications to proportionally control flow (or pressure) from zero to maximum flow as a function of duty cycle. At zero duty cycle, the solenoid is stationary, the valve is closed, and flow is zero. At 50% duty cycle, the solenoid moves through full stroke and opens the valve. The valve is only allowing full flow 50% of the time, so the time-averaged flow, in theory, is 50% of maximum flow. This type of control is called digital because the valve is fully open or fully closed - On or Off.
Proportional Solenoid Valve Operation
![Proportional Pressure Reducing-Relieving Valve Proportional Pressure Reducing-Relieving Valve](https://tlx-technologies.imgix.net/solenoids/Proportional-Pressure-Reducing-Relieving-Valve.png?&w=600&mode=clip&auto=format&lossless=1&fm=png)
This article was originally published by TLX Technologies
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