Solenoid Selection Criteria

• To select a solenoid for a given application, it is necessary for the user to answer the following questions:
  • What is the linear movement needed?
  • How much force is required to perform the operation?
  • What is the space limitation for the solenoid?
  • What is the duty cycle of the solenoid?
  • What is the operating temperature range?
  • Are there any special industrial environmental concerns?
  • Is there need for additional circuit protection?
  • What size lead wire and length of lead is required?
• Once the user has answered these 3 basic questions, the user will need to decide if the solenoid is to pull an object or push an object. The user will need to decide if the input voltage of the solenoid is to be AC or DC. The user will need to decide the style of solenoid.

Other application specific variables that the user needs to consider are as follows:

• Ambient Operating Temperature

• Dimensional Envelope

• Electrical Connections

• Mounting Orientation

• Supply Voltage

• Latching vs Non Latching Style

• Return Spring

• Terminals vs Lead Wires