On Tuesday, October 23, 2012 11:28:40 AM UTC+1, wrote:
I finished making my fox (and cat) scarer using one of those noisy impulse water sprinklers. This is controlled by a PIR which activates a 12v solenoid valve connected to the garden hose that then connects to the sprinkler..



It works a real treat but the problem is that solenoid slams shut instantaneously. This sends a shock wave back through the water system. And the result was that the shock waves caused a water leak at a junction of the incoming water supply from the street.



My question is to find out if there's an easy way to overcome the shock wave problem - either by:-

1. Electrical solution to close the solenoid progressively - whilst still making it open instantly.

or

2. Some mechanical means in a pressure vessel or whatever?



All suggestions are welcome.

Oil the solenoid. Try 20/50 first.


NT