SOLENOIDS - A solenoid converts electrical energy directly into linear mechanical motion. Solenoids are commonly used as the switch or valves which are entirely automated. In automobiles, starter solenoid acts as a relay that brings metal contact into place to close the circuit. 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.

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Solenoids

What is a Solenoid? Functions of solenoid

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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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