Solenoid what is it

The variations between the two types are easily distinguishable since wrapped solenoid coils are enclosed with paper or tape while encapsulated are embedded in some form of solid, non-porous material. Wrapped solenoid coils have adhesive tape or paper wrapped around the magnetic wires. The majority of wrapped coils are protected by insulated tape. Encapsulated solenoid coils are protected by solid materials such as epoxy, rubber, different forms of polyester, and plastic.

These types of solenoids are referred to as molded and are capable of withstanding harsh and hazardous conditions. Though DIN standards are used for electronics, they are also used for a wide variety of other products. In the case of solenoid coils, DIN connectors are used in place of lead wires and have a male connection to be inserted into a female plug. They form a more solid link to the application; this enhances coil exchange.

The most common use of DIN connectors is with encapsulated solenoid coils since they can easily be included as part of the bobbin. The basic purpose of a solenoid coil is to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy to supply linear motion. The structure of a solenoid coil includes a coil of wire that is wrapped around a piston made of a ferromagnetic metal. The benefit of a solenoid coil, when compared to a magnet, is the fact that it can be turned off; this makes it perfect for switches, valves, and automated devices.

As with all forms of magnets, a solenoid coil has positive and negative poles that can attract or repel any form of material that is sensitive to the forces of a magnet. With a solenoid, the magnetic field causes the core or piston to move forward or backward to activate an application or turn it off.

There are two key components to a solenoid coil: its magnetic field and electricity. Magnets can be pointed at metal objects and change the direction of the object or its position. The problem with a magnet is that once magnetized, it cannot be turned off, and it continually emits its magnetic field. This particular problem is not part of the operation of a solenoid coil.

Since its magnetic field is activated by electricity, it is possible to control when and how the magnetic field can be used. All wires produce a weak magnetic field when electricity passes through them. To enhance this property and create a strong magnetic field, wires for a solenoid coil are wound into a coil where each curled wire produces the same magnetic field as a single straight wire.

Every electrical device requires a closed loop between the thing being powered and the power source. A switch is a safe and convenient way to break the connection between the device being powered and its source of power. As the need for power increases, the size of the switch to break the connection has to increase as well.

Though the amount of power increases with the size of the switch, it still only takes a small amount of energy to turn the switch on and off. The use of a solenoid can provide the necessary energy since its operation does not require much energy. In essence, a 24 volt solenoid can easily turn on a volt machine.

If a normal switch were connected to a large piece of equipment, it would require a huge wire with a very large diameter to provide the necessary power to turn on the machine. Since a solenoid does not require the same amount of power as the device it is turning on, the size of the wire can be smaller and less expensive. The back-and-forth motion of a solenoid coil either allows an application to activate or turns it off.

As simplistic as it may be, a solenoid makes the activation of large pieces of equipment easy without the need for excessive energy. By varying the design of a solenoid coil, different objectives can be achieved. In the case of a locked door, a solenoid can remain activated to keep the door locked. Once an electric current moves through the coil, the spring of the solenoid coil retracts the plunger and unlocks the door.

Proportional solenoid coils convert an electric signal into proportional mechanical force; this allows a variance in the position and force relative to the current level.

The uses for a proportional solenoid coil include the regulation of flow rates by changing the position of the plunge of the valve. There is an endless number of solenoid coils with types available for every possible application. The many kinds of coils vary in accordance with their design, materials, and use. Regardless of the variations and different uses, all solenoid coils operate using the same electrical principles. Solenoid coils are commonly used as solenoid valve coils for the controlling of fluids.

They are also found in automated equipment and as a part of robotic operations. The latest news sent to your inbox. TLX Technologies Logo. Articles Solenoid What is a Solenoid? August 25, Play Video.

What Is 'Semantic Bleaching'? How 'literally' can mean "figuratively". Literally How to use a word that literally drives some pe Is Singular 'They' a Better Choice? The awkward case of 'his or her'. Take the quiz. Our Favorite New Words How many do you know? How a Solenoid Pump Works. How Does a Magneto Work? What Is a Momentary Action Switch? How Hydraulic Pilot Valves Work.

What Is a Magnetic Switch? Parts of a Motor. What Are the Functions of a Magnetic Contactor? How Does a Latching Relay Work? What Is a Ferrite Clamp?