Instructions for assembling the Temperature Control Valve

February 2, 2024

The Temperature Control Valve (TCV) is a small solenoid that is designed to control the flow of temperature regulating water into the jacket of BREWHA jacketed vessels. When it is powered (e.g. by the ETC), an electromagnet pulls a plunger up, opening the rubber diaphragm and letting water pass through the valve. When not powered, a small spring inside the solenoid pushes the diaphragm closed. A small spring is all that is needed to hold the valve closed as a tiny hole in the diaphragm lets water through above the diaphragm, equalizing pressure and using the supply pressure to help hold the diaphragm closed. This is also why the valve only works with water flowing in one direction. If water flows in the wrong direction, it can easily overcome the force of the small spring and push the diaphragm open.

Being made of stainless steel and high quality parts, the TCV is a rugged tool and under normal circumstances, very rarely fails. A small amount of heat is normal for electromagnets so they should be kept well ventilated, and a slight buzzing sound is also normal. If the TCV does not close properly, it is likely that a piece of debris has become lodged under the diaphragm, preventing it from closing properly. In the event this occurs, the valve can be opened and inspected with the following steps. (Sometimes this can also help if the valve is buzzing too loud as adjusting the plunger and diaphragm can help reduce the vibration when the magnet pulls the plunger open.)

1. Loosen the nut securing the electromagnet cap.
	2. Remove the cap and set aside.
3. With a hex key, remove the screws on the top of the valve.
	4. If the rubber gasket is holding the two sides firmly together, it can be gently pried apart at a corner (so the main seal won't be damaged) using a thin flat screwdriver. Wearing gloves is recommended in case the screwdriver slips.
5. With the valve open, the top of the diaphragm and the cup that pushes down on the diaphragm should be inspected for any loose debris and gently swept or blown clean. Care should be taken to ensure the plunger top spring is not lost.
	6. The underside of the rubber diaphragm can also be inspected by gently lifting it.
7. If there is a leak, the fittings can be removed.
	8. The fittings should be installed, with the arrow on the solenoid pointing in the direction that water will be flowing.
9. For best seal, apply food-grade teflon sealant to the threads and tape with teflon plumbers tape in a clockwise direction (when looking down the fitting with the threads closest to you).