DIY Solenoid soldering help

[Kingsley_Reef]

I am looking to build a normally open solenoid for my Neptune apex since Neptune only makes a normally closed solenoid I haven’t found a use for yet I would like my normally open solenoid to close at the push of a button during maintenance or water changes to be shutting down my ATO ,return pump skimmer ect….. I have found a 12v normally open solenoid https://a.co/d/cPgAJGC and am comfortable soldering on the 1link to bare wire
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/dc24-to-bare-wire-accessory-cable-neptune-systems.html.

However while dismantling the original solenoid I have found there is a capacitor soldered linking the terminals

What is it ?what does it do ?do I need it ?where do i purchase ?


Additional reference pics:

 

[Fish Fan]

@VintageReefer I believe is knowledgeable here, and maybe can help.

I know nothing, but have you tested the operation of the new solenoid to see if it works as is (or read the documentation for the component, if available)? If that's a cap it likely just steadies the voltage, and may not be critical, but certainly a help. Looks to me like you could simply unsolder it, and use it again on the new solenoid if it's needed.

Additionally, I know absolutely zero about Apex, but on my Robo Tank controller there's typically a setting to "invert logic" for a sensor or other components. I would have to think that Apex would have something similar. If so, you may be able to toggle that setting on, thereby making your normally closed solenoid operate as a normally open solenoid, without having to solder anything. Possibly :)

Please double check all my suggestions with someone who knows for sure ;)

Good luck!

 

[VintageReefer]

 

[braaap]

Isn’t the 1Link 24v? And you are tying to use a 12v solenoid.

I see no use for a normally open. Plug your devices into your eb832. They shut off when you press a button. About the only thing a normally open would be good for is a CO2 scrubber. Open when operating and then closed if you need to stop recirculating air and pull from another source.

 

[Jamie814]

I have found a 12v normally open solenoid

Apex runs on 24v you will need to find a 24v NO solenoid not 12v

Not sure what the resistor on the apex would be used for?

 

[Kingsley_Reef]

Apex runs on 24v you will need to find a 24v NO solenoid not 12v

Not sure what the resistor on the apex would be used for?

Wow good catch

 

[Kingsley_Reef]

Amazon.com: Valve 1/4" Normally Open Electric Solenoid Valve Magnetic DC12V 24V 36V Water Air Inlet Flow Switch Washing Machine Dispenser - (1/4"; Voltage: 24V) : Industrial & Scientific

Amazon.com: Valve 1/4" Normally Open Electric Solenoid Valve Magnetic DC12V 24V 36V Water Air Inlet Flow Switch Washing Machine Dispenser - (1/4"; Voltage: 24V) : Industrial & Scientific

a.co

 

[Jamie814]

Amazon.com: Valve 1/4" Normally Open Electric Solenoid Valve Magnetic DC12V 24V 36V Water Air Inlet Flow Switch Washing Machine Dispenser - (1/4"; Voltage: 24V) : Industrial & Scientific

Amazon.com: Valve 1/4" Normally Open Electric Solenoid Valve Magnetic DC12V 24V 36V Water Air Inlet Flow Switch Washing Machine Dispenser - (1/4"; Voltage: 24V) : Industrial & Scientific

a.co

That one would probably work to achieve what you are trying to do as long as it is only fresh water. I would not trust any solenoid valve with saltwater long term.

I would buy more than one, so you have a spare since it looks like it is coming direct from China...long delivery time.

 

[braaap]

Wow good catch

lol I caught that above him.

@TheHarold probably knows.

 

[Fish Fan]

D'oh! I thought this was something you'd have some input on. Sorry to bother you, please carry on :)

 

[Kingsley_Reef]

That one would probably work to achieve what you are trying to do as long as it is only fresh water. I would not trust any solenoid valve with saltwater long term.

I would buy more than one, so you have a spare since it looks like it is coming direct from China...long delivery time.

Yea it’s only for freshwater

 

[oreo54]

I am looking to build a normally open solenoid for my Neptune apex since Neptune only makes a normally closed solenoid I haven’t found a use for yet I would like my normally open solenoid to close at the push of a button during maintenance or water changes to be shutting down my ATO ,return pump skimmer ect….. I have found a 12v normally open solenoid https://a.co/d/cPgAJGC and am comfortable soldering on the 1link to bare wire
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/dc24-to-bare-wire-accessory-cable-neptune-systems.html.

However while dismantling the original solenoid I have found there is a capacitor soldered linking the terminals

What is it ?what does it do ?do I need it ?where do i purchase ?


Additional reference pics:

Looks more like a diode to me but could be wrong. If it is this is a possible reason.

A diode placed in parallel with a solenoid, often referred to as a flyback diode or free-wheeling diode, protects electronic components (like transistors or switches) from high voltage spikes when the solenoid de-energizes. These spikes occur because the solenoid's magnetic field collapses, causing a sudden reversal of current.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Why is a diode needed?
Inductive Load:
Solenoids are inductive loads. When the current to a solenoid is abruptly interrupted, the magnetic field collapses, and the stored energy tries to keep the current flowing, generating a voltage spike.
Voltage Spike:
This spike can be significantly higher than the normal operating voltage of the circuit, potentially damaging sensitive electronic components.
Diode Protection:
The diode acts as a low-resistance path for this reverse current, effectively "snubbing" the voltage spike and limiting the voltage to the diode's forward voltage.
How the diode works:
When the solenoid is energized, the diode is reverse-biased and does not conduct.
When the solenoid is switched off, the collapsing magnetic field tries to generate a reverse current. The diode allows this current to flow through it, preventing the voltage from rising too high.
The diode's low forward voltage ensures that the energy is dissipated safely.
In essence, the diode provides a controlled path for the reverse current, preventing it from damaging the rest of the circuit by allowing the energy to be dissipated through the diode itself rather than through the driver transistor or switch.

Anyways a lot of times one needs to quench the inductive kick. Any coil like thing..solenoids, motors.

How to size is here ..

https://forum.allaboutcircuits.com/threads/proper-diode-to-prevent-power-back-flow-from-24vdc-solenoid.178507/

Or simply .

If you have a solenoid with a nominal current of 1A and a 12V power supply:
The flyback diode should be rated for at least 10A (1A * 10).
The flyback diode should be rated for at least 12V (the power supply voltage).

If Apex uses a diode you should use a diode.

Btw 3 way solenoids are usually dual purpose. I port no, 1 port nc.. just plug the nc port.

Next . What size fitting do you want?