VQ21M1-5GZ-C8: SMC Pilot-Operated 2-Port Solenoid Valve for Dry Air, the High-Efficiency Control Core of Industrial Automation

Product Introduction

The VQ21M1-5GZ-C8 is a pilot-operated 2-port solenoid valve for dry air manufactured by Japan’s SMC Corporation, belonging to the VQ20/30 series. This solenoid valve features a pilot-operated structure, rapid response, high-frequency operation, and built-in quick-connect fittings, making it widely used in industrial automation control systems to provide precise directional control solutions for pneumatic actuators.

Core Product Advantages​

1. Rapid Response Performance​ Utilizes a pilot-operated structure with response times as fast as below 7ms (VQ20) and below 20ms (VQ30), ensuring quick system response to meet the demands of high-frequency on/off operations in industrial control applications.
2. High-Frequency Operation Capability​ Designed for high-frequency operation scenarios, capable of withstanding frequent switching actions, making it suitable for automated production lines and other applications requiring fast control.
3. Built-In Quick-Connect Fittings​ Equipped with Φ8 quick-connect fittings, simplifying piping work, improving installation efficiency, and facilitating maintenance and replacement.
4. Low Power Consumption and Energy-Efficient Design​ Features an energy-saving circuit design with a power consumption of only 0.6W, promoting energy efficiency and environmental friendliness. It also includes an overvoltage protection circuit to ensure device safety.

Technical Parameters​

Parameter Item	Specification	Description
Series	VQ20/30 Series	Product Series
Valve Size	2	Valve Body Size
Body Type	M	Manifold-Mounted
Coil Voltage	5	DC24V
Lead Wire Type	G	Direct Lead Wire Type
Electrical Circuit	Z	Energy-Saving Circuit for DC (with Indicator Light and Overvoltage Protection)
Port Connection	C8	Φ8 Quick-Connect Fitting
Operating Fluid	Air	Working Medium
Ambient Temperature Range	-10~50°C	Operating Temperature Range
Maximum Operating Pressure	0.6MPa	Maximum Working Pressure
Operating Pressure Range	0.1~0.7MPa	Working Pressure Range
Response Time	10/15ms	Action Response Speed
Power Consumption	0.6W	Power Usage
Lubrication Type	Non-Lubricated	Lubrication Method
Shock Resistance	150m/s²	Impact Resistance
Vibration Resistance	30m/s²	Vibration Resistance
Body Material	Resin	Valve Body Material
Valve Configuration	Normally Closed (N.C.)	Valve State
Number of Ports	2	Number of Channels
OUT Port Diameter	Φ8mm	Outlet Port Size
Protection Structure	Dustproof	Protection Rating

Model Analysis​

• VQ21M1:​ SMC solenoid valve series code. “21” denotes valve size, and “M1” indicates internal pilot-operated, single solenoid-controlled.
• 5GZ:​ Coil specifications. “5” denotes DC24V, “G” indicates direct lead wire type, and “Z” signifies an energy-saving circuit (with indicator light and overvoltage protection).
• C8:​ Port connection: Φ8 quick-connect fitting (Rc1/4).

Working Principle​

The VQ21M1-5GZ-C8 utilizes a pilot-operated solenoid valve structure. When the solenoid coil is energized, the electromagnetic force attracts the pilot valve core, opening the pilot port. This causes the pressure in the upper chamber of the main valve core to drop rapidly, creating a pressure differential (lower pressure above, higher pressure below) around the main valve core. The fluid pressure pushes the main valve core upward, opening the valve and allowing compressed air to enter the cylinder’s rodless side, extending the piston. When de-energized, the electromagnetic force dissipates, and the pilot valve core resets under spring force, closing the pilot port. The pressure in the upper chamber of the main valve core increases, and under the combined action of spring force and fluid pressure, the main valve port closes, allowing compressed air to enter the cylinder’s rod side, retracting the piston.

Typical Application Scenarios​

1. Industrial Automation Production Lines​ Used in automated production lines for automotive manufacturing, electronic device production, etc., to control the directional actions of pneumatic actuators such as cylinders and grippers. This enables pushing, positioning, clamping, and transporting of workpieces, enhancing production efficiency and product quality.
2. Packaging Machinery​ Controls actions such as material conveying, sorting, and marking in packaging machines. The solenoid valve enables directional control of pneumatic actuators, ensuring precision and stability in the production process.
3. Robotics Technology​ Serves as the pneumatic control system for robots, controlling the directional actions of pneumatic actuators to grasp, position, and place workpieces, improving robotic motion accuracy and efficiency.
4. Precision Manufacturing Equipment​ Used in equipment for semiconductor manufacturing and precision machining to control the motion accuracy of pneumatic actuators, ensuring process stability and repeatability, and enhancing product quality.

Installation and Usage Considerations​

1. Installation Requirements​ The solenoid valve should be installed on a flat, stable base to ensure stable operation. Before installation, verify that the air source pressure meets the 0.1~0.7 MPa requirement and ensure the air source is clean. During installation, pay attention to the direction of the valve’s inlet and outlet ports; the arrow on the valve body should align with the medium flow direction. The valve must not be installed in reverse. The solenoid coil section should be installed vertically upward, with a tilt angle not exceeding ±30°.
2. Operating Environment​ The operating temperature range is -10~50°C; avoid use in excessively high or low temperatures. Maintain appropriate relative humidity levels to prevent moisture from affecting equipment lifespan. The operating medium should be filtered through a 40 μm or finer filter before use.
3. Electrical Connection​ Strictly follow the voltage parameters indicated on the coil nameplate for wiring. The power supply voltage should be DC24V ±10%, and stability must be ensured. When connecting wires, ensure secure connections to prevent loosening that could cause the solenoid valve to malfunction. It is recommended to install an overload protection device in the circuit.
4. Regular Maintenance​ Regularly inspect the solenoid valve’s connecting pipes and valves to ensure no leaks. Periodically clean the solenoid valve surface to maintain cleanliness. Routinely check the solenoid valve’s operational performance to ensure long-term stable operation. After prolonged shutdowns, it is recommended to perform an air purge before restarting.
5. Safe Operation​ Ensure the equipment is properly grounded before operation to prevent electric shock risks. Avoid contact with moving parts during operation to prevent injuries. In case of equipment malfunction, stop operation immediately and have it repaired by professionals. Always depressurize before installation to prevent injuries from high-pressure medium discharge. Do not exceed the product’s rated pressure, temperature, and medium specifications.

Closing Summary​

The VQ21M1-5GZ-C8 pilot-operated 2-port solenoid valve is the “high-efficiency control core” in the field of industrial automation. It perfectly combines rapid response, high-frequency operation, and low-power consumption design, providing efficient, reliable, and energy-saving directional control solutions for various industrial applications.

Choosing the VQ21M1-5GZ-C8 means selecting high response speed and high reliability to drive your automation system toward greater efficiency!

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