Parker Solenoid Then and Now?

**SaltyNC** · 08-06-2012, 04:32 PM

I am in the middle of a regulator build, and I found a Parker metering valve at a good price that I'm using for my build. I thought it might be neat to keep it in the Parker family and use a Parker solenoid, as well. However, after doing some searching, it seems some have had problems with Parker solenoids.

Does anyone have a Parker solenoid still in service?

Has anyone replaced their coil?

Does anyone know if the new Parker solenoids with the modular coils work any better? I found some literature that said they were rated for continuous duty.

Here is the latest catalog with the new modular coils and bodies:
http://www.parker.com/literature/Flu...4_7%200904.pdf

And here is the full catalog of valves. The ones I'm looking at are the 7000 series.
http://www.parker.com/literature/Flu...at%2003_08.pdf

Thanks!

John

GO CYL-20 Dual-Stage Stainless Steel CO2 Regulator Build

**SaltyNC** · 08-09-2012, 09:11 PM

I sent a message into Parker customer service about the coils and valves in their 7000 series. They are rated for continuous duty, and as long as the ambient air temperature doesn't exceed 140 F, they should be fine running for 8 hours straight. The do, however, get hot. The 120V coil that I specifically inquired about (C111P3) will operate in the 140-160 degree F range. Make yourself an Easy-bake Oven with that sucker. The 7000 series is also substantial and weighs quite a bit.

**Matt F.** · 08-09-2012, 10:15 PM

I'd use a Burkert. I am.

**SaltyNC** · 08-09-2012, 10:47 PM

That definitely seems to be the consensus.

Do the Burkerts get hot? I just hate having to pay more for a solenoid than a two-stage high purity regulator. It's crazy that the stainless body is nearly double the brass body. $40-something isn't bad. But $80+shipping...that's close to $100 for solenoid. Ouch!

Are the cool touch solenoids used on products like the Aquatek regulators just not reliable long term? Those must be costing less than $20 to produce.

Thanks!

**Matt F.** · 08-10-2012, 11:14 PM

temperature and quality/longevity aren't correlated at all when it comes to solenoids. Burkerts run warm, but they are bolted to the regulator post body and you won't be fondling it anyway. I mean fondling a solenoid is kinda like licking an AC outlet. Most people won't do it. LoL! A "cooler" solenoid just means that they insulate it. The Burkert will outlast just about any solneoid I know of. No questions asked. It's a solid investment that will pay for itself in time.

Originally Posted by SaltyNC

That definitely seems to be the consensus.

Do the Burkerts get hot? I just hate having to pay more for a solenoid than a two-stage high purity regulator. It's crazy that the stainless body is nearly double the brass body. $40-something isn't bad. But $80+shipping...that's close to $100 for solenoid. Ouch!

Are the cool touch solenoids used on products like the Aquatek regulators just not reliable long term? Those must be costing less than $20 to produce.

Thanks!

**hbosman** · 10-24-2012, 05:38 PM

I have one of those Parker solenoids that people have had problems with. But mine has been running perfectly for 2 years. It has a nice satisfying "snap" sound when it closes and no leaks.

http://www.barrreport.com/attachment...2&d=1350749227