A solenoid is an electromechanical device which uses electrical energy applied to an electromagnetic coil in order to produce mechanical motion. Namco solenoids work produce linear motion with either a push or pull stroke. The coil is designed to be energized by a specific voltage. When energized it creates a strong magnetic field in the core section of the solenoid which then either pushes or pulls the plunger, which in turn moves or shifts the connected load. In the de-energized state the solenoid plunger is typically returned to its normal position by gravity or other external effects depending on orientation.

1. Everything You Need to
Know About a Solenoid

2. What is a Solenoid?
• A solenoid is an electromechanical device which uses electrical energy
applied to an electromagnetic coil in order to produce mechanical motion.
• A common application of an industrial solenoid is where the push or pull
stroke of the solenoid is used to actuate or de-actuate a clutch mechanism
in an industrial press in order for the press to perform its intended
function

3. How does a Solenoid work?
• The coil is designed to be energized by a specific voltage. When energized it
creates a strong magnetic field in the core section of the solenoid which
then either pushes or pulls the plunger, which in turn moves or shifts the
connected load.
• In the de-energized state the solenoid plunger is typically returned to its
normal position by gravity or other external effects depending on
orientation.
• The core of a solenoid is usually ferromagnetic, meaning that it
concentrates magnetic lines of flux.
• This increases the inductance of the coil far beyond the inductance
obtainable with an air-core coil of the same dimensions and the same
number of turns.

4. Where is a Solenoid Used?
• Solenoid applications vary greatly, however many uses of industrial
solenoids could be considered typical.
• Due to the nature of the events resulting from solenoid actuation the
controls for energizing the solenoids are interlocked into the operation of
the press for maximum safety.
• Another typical application of industrial solenoids is where the push or pull
stroke of the solenoid is implemented to shift the spool of a hydraulic or
pneumatic valve.
• The spool controls the flow of compressed air or hydraulic fluid which in
turn operates a cylinder or other device providing mechanical motion.
• Other typical solenoid applications include vending and dispensing
equipment, machine tools, lifts, and cranes.

5. How to Select The Right Solenoid?
• The decision to use a solenoid for your application is quite simple and
straight forward when the parameters surrounding the application are
understood.
• The next step of course is to select from the available offerings.
• The high power of a solenoid in a relatively compact package is often the
most important factor in the decision to use an industrial solenoid.
• Solenoids should be mounted in a vertical plane for maximum life.

6. Want to learn more?
Namco industrial solenoids are available from a broad base of experienced,
knowledgeable distributors located across the USA as well as internationally. The
Namco website or the Namco customer service team will assist you in finding the best
distributor for your region, and factory direct orders are an option. The Namco
customer service team is always eager to assist with sales or technical support
inquiries.
Call 1-800-390-6405 or 1-910-862-2511
Visit our website
http://www.danaherspecialtyproducts.com/Namco/Products-and-
Solutions/Solenoids/