Ventilators have a long history of saving lines, from their conception in the early 1800s to their current use, saving many lives throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. One machine adopts the role of the lungs, taking oxygen into the body and removing carbon dioxide for patients who cannot breathe on their own.

Medical ventilators serve a critical function in modern medicine, but a key component that allows these machines to work is the solenoid valve.

Solenoid valves are of utmost importance in that they deliver the correct concentration of gas and rate of flow to the patient. In addition, solenoid valves moderate the oxygen flow rate with great speed and precision (increments as small as half a liter per minute) which provides effective patient care.

Solenoid valves are electromagnetically operated and controlled by central processing units (CPUs). They consist of an electromagnetic coil surrounding an iron core. When energized, it changes the valves position between on and off very quickly to control the flow of a fluid or gas. 

Solenoid valves come in different power profiles and are also used in many other life-saving medical devices, such as dialysis machines. 

Solenoid valves come in 2 way and 3 way configurations. 2 way valves work as a shut off, while 3 way valves work to allow two paths of flow. These valves can be set to default in an open or closed state, and 3 way valves can also be directional.

About Bead Electronics

Bead Electronics, is a global manufacturer of electronic connector pins and has been manufacturing in Connecticut for over 100 years. The award-winning company carries over 500 patents and is best known for inventing its manufacturing process called swaging. This process is a high-speed, virtually scrap-less, cold-forming process capable of producing a wide size range of metal electronic components that are consistent and cost-effective. The family-owned business is led by its fifth generation. Click here to speak to a connector pin specialist today.