Different Applications For Solenoids

Process and machine automation ranges from on-off basic functions to sequencing that is very complex. In situations where these processes involve rotary or linear motion, solenoids are one of the best types of actuation devices when it comes to ease of use, simple installation, cost and size. Solenoids can be used in a wide variety of applications. Some of the more common applications for rotary solenoids include copiers, ticket machines, brakes, pinch rollers, machine tools, film processors, automatic tellers, textile machinery, defibrillators, IC insertion machines, circuit breakers and counters. Among the most common applications for linear solenoids are electronic typewriters, disk drive locks, film processors coin changers, interposers, pumps, door locks, copiers, brakes and vending machines. Here are some of the main functions that solenoids are ideally suited for. Reliability With a life span as much as 100 million cycles and the delivery of repeatable, predictable performance, solenoids deliver uncompromising reliability. Simplified Control Solenoids are a pulsed device and have minimal components, making them ideal for digital control, resulting in higher reliability and faster cycling with fewer interfaces. Kick The electrical operation and snap-acting response of solenoids benefit part rejection processes where electronic interfacing involving a photo sensor is needed. Pinch Medical equipment often involves tubes that carry body fluids The flow regulation on these tubes must be accurately controlled. A linear solenoid, for example, has variable positioning capability and can be used to pinch the tube smoothly and precisely to the operator's demand. By using a solenoid this way, valves and other types of connecting apparatuses that could pose leakage or contamination threats are eliminated. Latch and Lock Long life, reliability, compact size and low cost are some of the major reasons why solenoids are becoming increasingly in demand for use in many different types of locking applications such as missile systems, disk drives, cash registers and vault doors. Whether the solenoid is linear or rotary, it can be configured quite easily into machine designs that require a stage or platform be latched or locked into position throughout a specific machine process. Diverter Depending on what the specification application is, a gate diverter can be used infrequently or continuously. A rotary solenoid, for example, can be used due to its actuation life rating of 100+ million. Exceptional Torque or Force Linear solenoids that are 2 1/4 inches long or less can provide as much as 30 pounds in force as well as 100 pounds in torque. Position There are a wide range of positioning applications from simple ratcheting devices to variable precise positioning that can make use of rotary or linear solenoids. Variable Positioning Rotary solenoid applications and linear solenoid applications are both capable of offering variable positioning. High Speed It only takes milliseconds for a solenoid to be actuated. The velocity of a solenoid can also be controlled, which provides noiseless, smooth actuation. Small Size Whether a small frontal area, minimum volume, or low profile is needed, solenoids are ideal. Compared to motors, the work they deliver per cubic inch is much greater. Solenoids are very flexible and can be used in a wide range of applications and industries. They are especially useful in any situation where controlled motion is necessary, such as holding, rotating, positioning, clamping, latching, locking, pulling, pushing and lifting. Whether your system includes rotary or linear operations, there is a good chance that there is a solenoid that can meet your specific application requirements.