SMC VQC2201-5 Plug-in 5-Port Double Solenoid Valve VQC2000

A double-solenoid plug-in valve with memory of position

VQC2201-5 is the 2-position double-solenoid version of the SMC VQC2000 plug-in valve, with rubber seal and a 24 VDC coil. A single pulse on either coil switches the valve, and it stays in that position when the signal is removed. That behaviour is useful where a cylinder must stay in place after a power cut or where the control sends short pulses.

The code reads VQC2 (series), 2 (2-position double solenoid), 0 (a fixed digit in the type code), 1 (rubber seal) and 5 (24 VDC). It is installed on a VV5QC21 manifold base, and it carries two coils, one at each end of the spool.

Technical specifications

Single or double: how to choose

A single solenoid valve returns by spring when the coil is switched off. A double solenoid valve needs a signal for each direction, but it does not return by itself. In the catalogue table, the double type responds in 26 ms or less against 31 ms for the single type (standard 0.4 W coil) at the same size, and the minimum operating pressure is lower, 0.1 MPa against 0.15 MPa for the rubber-seal single.

On a restart after a power loss, the position of a double valve is the one it had at the time. Where an unexpected movement of the cylinder is a risk, review the start-up circuit and read the precautions page of the catalogue.

Wiring and manifold

Never energise both coils at the same time. The manifold plug carries two coil connections for a double valve, and the catalogue notes that the electrical entry and the maximum number of stations depend on the kit. It offers flat ribbon, D-sub, terminal block and serial communication kits, and a back-pressure check valve or an external pilot option on the manifold.

The valve is sold separately from the manifold base, so quote the manifold code and the station number together with the valve.

Related SMC products: SMC VQC1101-5 Plug-in 5-Port Solenoid Valve VQC1000, SMC VQC4101-5 Plug-in 5-Port Solenoid Valve VQC4000, SMC SY5120-5LZD-01 5-Port Solenoid Valve SY5000, SMC SY7120-5LZD-02 5-Port Solenoid Valve SY7000, SMC VK3120-5G-M5 Direct Operated 5-Port Solenoid Valve and SMC SY3120-5LZD-M5 Compact 5-Port Solenoid Valve.

Documents and quotation

The SMC VQC2000 catalogue linked below includes how-to-order for valves and manifolds, specifications, flow data and dimensions. Please confirm manifold type, station count, voltage and options before ordering. See also Solenoid Valves. Seven Star LLC is an independent supplier and quotes the exact part number on request.

VQC2201-5 Ordering Code Options in the Current Catalogue

The catalogue response times are measured to JIS B 8419: 2010 with clean air at 0.5 MPa and the light/surge voltage suppressor fitted. For a double solenoid valve they are the values when the switch is turned on. Flow rates are for a C8 cylinder port without a back pressure check valve.

How the VQC2201-5 Works

The VQC2201-5 has two pilot valves, one at each end of the spool. A pulse to coil A shifts the spool so that 1(P) supplies 4(A) and 2(B) exhausts through 3(R2). A pulse to coil B shifts it back so that P supplies 2(B) and A exhausts through 5(R1). With no signal on either coil the spool keeps its last position, which is why a double solenoid valve is often called a memory valve. The rubber-seal spool works in an aluminium body with HNBR seals and does not need lubrication.

The VQC2000 manifold has a 16 mm pitch, and SMC lists the series as suitable for cylinders up to Ø80. The valve plugs into the manifold, so no lead wire is fitted to the valve itself, and it can be replaced without removing the cylinder tubing.

Manifold & Wiring Kits

• F kit (D-sub), P kit (flat ribbon cable), T kit (terminal block box), L kit (lead wire) and M kit (circular connector).
• S kit for serial transmission with EX126, EX245, EX250, EX260, EX500 or EX600 SI units, and the EXW1 compact wireless system. The S kit accepts 24 VDC valves only.
• A double solenoid valve uses two outputs of the manifold wiring, so count two points per station when you size the SI unit or connector.

Installation & Maintenance

• Supply clean, dry air through a filter; use dry air at low temperatures to prevent condensation.
• Keep within 0.1 to 0.7 MPa for the double type.
• Do not energise both coils at the same time, and check the spool position before starting the machine after a stop.
• Use the manual override only after checking that the cylinder movement is safe.
• Replace a worn pilot valve assembly with the part listed in the catalogue replacement parts page.

Typical Applications in Oman & the GCC

Clamping, gate and diverter cylinders on packaging and bottling lines, water treatment skids and assembly machines across Oman and the GCC, wherever a cylinder must hold its position when the signal is removed.

Why Source the VQC2201-5 from Seven Star LLC

Seven Star LLC supplies SMC VQC valves, VV5QC21 manifolds and serial interface units across Oman and the GCC. Request a quote, and our team can help confirm the correct ordering code.