Automated car wash systems require precise dosing and flow control to operate efficiently. Using the right fluid control valve is the key to achieving precision and optimal performance. For OEMs and operators/maintenance professionals, understanding the valve types, benefits, and performance criteria will help you make the best selection for your application.
How to Ensure Proper Dosing and Flow Across All Systems
Valves, although small, significantly impact car wash system performance. Every stage in the automated car wash cycle—washing, rinsing, drying—depends on efficient fluid or air control. OEMs and maintenance professionals must carefully consider specific valve requirements tailored to each stage.
Washing, Rinsing, and Drying Stages
- Pre-Soak and Chemical Dosing: Manage consistency and control the mixing and distribution of cleaning agents.
- High-Pressure Washing: Manage high-pressure water flow for consistent cleaning.
- Foam and Wax Application: Regulate flow for even application of foams and waxes.
- Rinsing: Ensure water and treated rinses are dispensed evenly and at the appropriate pressure.
- Air Drying: Control airflow for high-pressure drying systems.
Other System Operations
- Backflow Prevention: Car wash check valves prevent residual soap or chemicals from flowing backward into clean water lines, which helps protect the integrity of each car wash stage.
- Recycling and Filtration: Many car washes recycle water to minimize waste. Valves help control water flow through these systems.
The Best Fluid Control Valves for Car Wash Systems 
Selecting the right valve involves understanding specific features, benefits, and compatibility with your car wash system. Commonly utilized valve types include:
Critical Factors in Selecting a Valve
Every minute a car wash is inoperable represents lost revenue. Though mechanical issues cannot always be avoided, the type and quality of the valves used in your system directly impact performance, consistency, and reliability. When designing or maintaining a car wash system, there are three critical factors to consider before selecting a valve.
Pressure and Flow Rate
Using improperly rated valves can lead to inefficiencies and safety hazards. Pressure regulation is critical in preventing pressure spikes that cause weak or excessive sprays and inconsistent chemical dosing.
Determine the requirements for your car wash system and test valves in the application to measure reliability and performance. Depending on the system design, you will likely require a mixture of high-pressure and low-pressure valves.
Material & Fluid Compatibility
Not all materials provide the same resistance to extreme temperatures, chemicals, dampness, and humidity. Research valve materials to ensure material compatibility with the operating environment. Specifications to pay attention to include operating temperature range, chemical resistance, and corrosion resistance. Ideal car wash valve materials include stainless steel, PTFE, and engineered plastics.
Quality & Reliability
High-quality valves reduce maintenance frequency and downtime costs. Investing in reliable components upfront can significantly improve your system’s long-term performance and cost efficiency.
When to Consider Custom Car Wash Valves 
Though off-the-shelf fluid control valves address many needs, a custom or modified solution can help OEMs achieve better results. Consider using custom car wash valves if any of these situations apply:
- Space Constraints: Car wash system designs become more compact, requiring smaller and more unique dimensions.
- Chemical Compatibility: Constant chemical exposure to wax and detergents causes wear and corrosion that weakens valves. Designing valves with materials compatible with this operating environment reduces replacement frequency and improves overall system performance.
- Precise Dosing: All valves provide flow control, but some car wash designs require custom orifices, seals, or flow adjustments to achieve the desired level of precision.
Industry-leading Valves for Car Wash Operators and OEMs
At Specialty Mfg. Co., we provide reliable, high-quality valve solutions made in the USA. With over 100 years of design and manufacturing expertise, we help you enhance your system’s performance and distinguish your brand.
Looking to find the perfect valve solution? Use our convenient product configurator, or contact us for custom valve design support tailored specifically for your OEM applications.
