Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some FAQs. Click on a question to learn more.
Energization Time
QWhat is the duty cycle?
There is a maximum power limit for energizing the solenoid.
When applying a voltage higher than the continuously applicable voltage, limit the energization time to reduce average power.
Representative values for voltages at 50%, 25%, and 10% are listed in the coil rating table.
However, the maximum "ON" time for each value is also listed, so it is necessary to set the cycle to ensure that the energization time does not exceed these durations.
Even if it is a single occurrence and not repeated, please ensure that the energization time does not exceed this duration.
QI would like a bit more thrust.
The thrust generated by the solenoid is proportional to the current applied.
Therefore, increasing the current will increase the thrust, but it will also raise the temperature of the coil.
Thus, please allow a rest period for the coil to cool down.
If the energization time becomes long, you can increase the voltage only when necessary and decrease it at other times.
This is acceptable as long as the average power does not exceed the value for continuous energization.
Operating Direction
QTo change the operating direction, should I reverse the current?
Our solenoids are unidirectional.
They operates in only one direction regardless of the polarity of the current.
To operate in the reverse direction, you need to either use a spring to pull it back or provide a separate solenoid for the reverse direction.
Driving Method
QWhat should I use for the solenoid switch?
Our solenoids are DC solenoids, so they do not experience inrush current.
The current value calculated from the resistance listed in the catalog and the applied voltage is the current capacity required for the switch.
As long as it can handle this current value, it can be operated with mechanical switches, relays, or semiconductor devices such as transistors or FETs.
However, be sure to include a diode to handle the reverse voltage generated when switching off.
Determine the required voltage rating for the switch with a margin above the power supply voltage.
QDoes the coil have polarity?
No, it doesn't.
However, latching types using permanent magnets and bidirectional rotary solenoids do have polarity.
QHow much is the inrush current?
Our solenoids are DC solenoids, so they do not experience inrush current.
The current, calculated based on the power supply voltage and coil resistance, flows.
QHow should the back EMF be handled?
Since solenoids have high inductance, they generate a large voltage in the opposite direction when the current is interrupted.
This phenomenon causes sparks and contact arcing when current is applied through switches or relays.
Additionally, when using semiconductor devices such as transistors or FETs, it can cause breakdown due to overvoltage.
To counteract this, insert a diode in parallel with the solenoid coil.
The diode conducts when the current is interrupted, absorbing the generated voltage.
Rated Voltage
QI can't find the rated voltage even after looking at the catalog.
Our solenoids do not have a specified rated voltage.
Please select from the coil rating table in the catalog based on the operating conditions, such as continuous energization or applying a high voltage for a limited time.
To operate in the reverse direction, you need to either use a spring to pull it or prepare a separate solenoid for the reverse direction.
For non-continuous operation, you must adhere to the energization time specified in the coil rating table.
Temperature Rise
QInitially, the solenoid works, but after a while, it stops.
The thrust of the solenoid is proportional to the current flowing through the coil.
The current is determined by the applied voltage and the resistance of the coil.
Since the coil is made by winding copper wire, its resistance changes with temperature.
Applying current to the coil causes power loss, which leads to an increase in temperature.
The temperature coefficient of copper is positive, so as the temperature increases, the resistance also increases.
Therefore, the current decreases, resulting in a reduction in thrust.
As a result, even if it works initially, its performance may gradually deteriorate.
To avoid this, it is necessary to select a solenoid that generates sufficient thrust with a sufficient margin.