| Deciding if a solenoid is right for your application |
| Machine and process automation can range from the most basic on-off function to extremely complex sequencing. When the process involves linear or rotary motion, solenoids are among the best actuation devices in terms of size, cost, simplified installation, and ease of use. Below are some of the primary functions which are ideally suited for solenoids. If your design includes linear or rotary operations, we can help you determine the best solenoid to meet your application design requirements. |
| In medical equipment, tubes carrying body fluids must have accurately controlled flow regulation. In this example, a Linear solenoid is utilized for its variable positioning capability to smoothly pinch the tube to the operator's precise demand. Using a solenoid in this manner eliminates valves and other connecting apparatus which pose a threat for contamination or leakage. |
| Gate diverters, depending on the application, can be used continuously or very infrequently. In this example, a Rotary Solenoid is chosen for its 100+ million actuation life rating |
| Exceptional Force or Torque |
| A linear solenoid can provide up to 30 pounds of force from a unit less than 2-1/4 inches long. A rotary solenoid can provide well over 100 lb-in of torque from a unit also less than 2-1/4 inches long. |
| Soft Shift® solenoids for linear solenoid applications and BTA® Brushless Torque Actuators for rotary solenoid applications provide variable positioning capabilities. |
| Solenoids can be actuated in milliseconds, or can be velocity controlled to provide smooth, noiseless actuation. |
| Need low profile? Minimum volume? Small frontal area? Solenoids can pack more work per cubic inch than motors. |
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| Being a pulsed device with minimal components optimizes solenoids for digital control. This results in faster cycling and higher reliability with fewer interfaces. |
| Uncompromising Reliability |
| Solenoids provide repeatable, predictable performance with a specified life of up to 100 million cycles. |
| Solenoid snap-acting response and electric operation are beneficial for part rejection processes in which electronic interfacing with a photosensor or some other sensor is required |
| Low cost, compact size, reliability, and long life are all reasons for the growing demand for solenoids in a wide variety of locking applications from vault doors, cash registers, disk drives and missile systems. |
| Whether rotary or linear, a solenoid is easily configured into machine designs requiring a platform or stage to be latched in position during a particular machine process |
| Positioning applications can range from a simple ratcheting device, such as this, to precise variable positioning using linear Soft Shift® solenoids or rotary BTA® solenoids. |
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