What is the role of a solenoid valve in a pneumatic system?

• A. To control the flow of compressed air to actuators, enabling extend/retract.
• B. To sense the position of a mechanism.
• C. To store compressed air for later use.
• D. To regulate temperature in the system.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that a solenoid valve acts as an electrically controlled switch for compressed air, directing it to the actuator to make it move. When the coil is energized, the valve shifts its internal passage, routing air to the appropriate side of a cylinder so it extends or retracts. This is how you remotely or automatically control motion in a pneumatic system, including sequencing and stopping actions. It isn’t a sensor, so it doesn’t detect position; it isn’t a storage device, so it doesn’t hold air; and it doesn’t regulate temperature, which is done by other components.