Description

Pilot Operated Solenoid Valve (Ductile Iron, PN16)

The pilot operated solenoid valve is an electrically actuated control valve used to switch water flow on and off automatically or remotely in supply and storage systems. A solenoid coil acts as the pilot: when it is energised or de-energised, it opens or closes a small pilot port, and the pressure difference across the main diaphragm does the work of driving the large main valve open or shut. This “differential” design lets a small, low-power coil control a full-bore ductile iron valve rated to PN16 — ideal for automatic tank filling, remote shut-off, and level control in Singapore water systems.

How it works

Unlike a hydraulic pilot valve (which senses pressure or level mechanically), a pilot operated solenoid valve is controlled by an electrical signal. The solenoid opens or closes the pilot circuit; that changes the pressure in the main valve’s control chamber; and the differential between inlet and outlet pressure then forces the main valve to open or close. Because it relies on that pressure differential, the valve needs a minimum operating pressure to function — it is not designed to open against zero differential. It can be wired to a level switch, float switch, timer, or controller for fully automatic operation.

Key features

• Electric on/off control — integrates with level switches, floats, timers, PLCs, or building management systems.
• Differential (pilot) operation — a small coil controls a large valve with low power draw.
• Ductile iron body, PN16 — suited to municipal and building water pressures.
• Available configurations (trim to what you stock): normally-closed or normally-open, and a range of coil voltages

Applications

Automatic water tank filling and top-up, remote or automated shut-off, level control (paired with a float or level switch), pump-system control, irrigation zone control, and utility/process water on-off switching.

Why buy from Sabelita

As a Singapore water supply and plumbing specialist, we supply pilot operated solenoid valves together with the water tank accessories, level controls, pumps, and pipe fittings needed to build a complete automatic filling or shut-off setup — from one local supplier, with support and advice.

Looking for a non-electric version? See our Pilot Operated Valve for hydraulically-controlled pressure, level, and flow duties.

FAQs

What is a pilot operated solenoid valve?

It is an electrically actuated control valve in which a solenoid coil acts as the pilot. The coil opens or closes a small pilot port, and the pressure difference across the valve drives the main valve open or shut — allowing automatic or remote on/off control of water flow.

How does a pilot operated solenoid valve work?

When the solenoid is energised or de-energised it changes the pressure in the main valve’s control chamber. The differential between inlet and outlet pressure then opens or closes the main valve. A small, low-power coil can therefore control a large full-bore valve.

What is the difference between a pilot operated solenoid valve and a pilot operated valve?

A pilot operated solenoid valve is controlled electrically (by a solenoid coil and an electrical signal), so it suits automatic and remote on/off switching. A hydraulic pilot operated valve is controlled by the water itself and is used for continuous pressure, level, or flow regulation without electricity.

What is the difference between a pilot operated and a direct-acting solenoid valve?

A direct-acting solenoid valve opens the main orifice directly with the coil, works at zero pressure differential, but is limited to small sizes. A pilot operated solenoid valve uses the line’s pressure differential to open a much larger valve with a small coil — but it needs a minimum operating pressure to work.

Does it need a minimum pressure to operate?

Yes. Because it relies on the pressure difference between inlet and outlet, a pilot operated (differential) solenoid valve needs a minimum operating pressure and is not designed to open against zero differential.

What is a pilot operated solenoid valve used for?

Automatic water tank filling, remote or automated shut-off, level control with a float or level switch, pump control, irrigation, and utility water on-off switching.

Do you supply pilot operated solenoid valves in Singapore?

Yes — Sabelita supplies pilot operated solenoid valves in Singapore, along with the level controls, water tank accessories, and fittings needed to complete an automatic filling or shut-off system.