A fire systems manufacturer sought to replace the pyrotechnic device used to open a Schrader valve on a cylinder of compressed extinguishing medium.

This component needed a faster response time and higher latching force than the pyrotechnic device. TLX engineers developed an ideal solution - a latching solenoid with an optional manual valve actuator.

This actuator was held in the latched position without power until receiving a signal from the control panel. When released, the latching solenoid opened the cylinder valve and extinguishing medium was discharged into the system. Faster response time allowed the extinguishing media to open larger valves to other cylinders, directly acting on suppression of the event. The latching solenoid was also designed with an emergency release button to manually depress the cylinder valve if needed. In order to reset the system, the solenoid was manually returned to the latched position.

TLX provided a solution that worked at a lower current, had a higher latching force and was operated on smaller capacitors than the original pyrotechnic device used. Additionally, this latching solenoid cost less than the manufacturer's original offshore supplier.