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Solenoids
What is a Solenoid? Functions of
solenoid
engineeringinsider
A solenoid is a set
of coiled wire which acts as an electromagnet when current is passed through
it.
It converts
electrical energy directly into linear mechanical motion.
Since coiled wire
has a large application, people often assume solenoid to be an electromagnet.
The electromagnets
have a very particular use because they can be switched off and on as per the
requirement. Also, they can be strengthened by increasing the flow of current
through the coil.
Solenoids are
commonly used as the switch or valves which are entirely automated.
The magnetic field
of solenoid also has a south and a north pole like other magnets.
In the solenoid, the
electromagnetic field causes the movement of pistons in forward or backward
direction; this is how the motion is created by a solenoid.
It has a very
limited application because of the short stroke, usually of an inch.
There
are different types of solenoids – push type, that uses a spring to hold it at
the closed position and gets open when the voltage is applied – The pull-type
pushes out the solenoid arm when the voltage is applied.
The
third type is both push/pull solenoids, which works in both directions.
Functions
of solenoid -
Solenoid
working as a valve -
In
the direct acting-valve, the valve gets activated by the solenoid which pulls a
plunger or piston to block air or fluid from flowing.
In
some solenoid valves, the conduit is not directly opened by the electromagnetic
field.
In
a pilot operated valve, a solenoid moves the plunger that creates the small
opening and the pressure created by that small opening operates the valve seal.
In
both the valves the electric current needs to flow continuously through the
solenoid, because once the current is stopped the electromagnetic fields will
disperse and the valve will return to its closed position.
Starter
solenoid -
In
automobiles, starter solenoid acts as a relay that brings metal contact into
place to close the circuit.
Starter
solenoid receives small current when automobile ignition is activated, by the
turn of a key or start button.
This
renders the magnetic field of starter solenoid to pull on the contacts, thus
closing the circuit between the starter motor and car’s battery.
The
solenoid needs continuous electric supply to maintain the circuit, but as the
engine starts, it gets self-powered and the solenoid gets de-activated.
Moreover,
these can be used in particular type of locking systems in the doors that use
an electromagnet and offer secure closure.
The
solenoid is used in various appliances and products like fuel injection gear
system, computer printers, doorbells and in many more products.
They
are versatile and can be found in everything from paintball guns to automated
industries.
They
give quick response which makes them the most significantly used tool for
different purposes.
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