How do Solenoids Work?
|
|
|
|
1. When electricity passes through a conductor, a small magnetic field is created around the conductor. This field of magnetic energy is called magnetic flux.
2. If several conductors are next to one another, the lines of flux will pass around the entire group.
3. Consider now a solenoid coil, with many turns of fine wire around the solenoid cross section bobbin. A cross section would show lines of flux traveling through and around the coil.
4. If ferrous material is placed in a "circuit"around the solenoid coil, the lines of flux will travel through the circuit. The circuit in the illustration includes the Can, Stop, Armature, and Pole. All parts are stationary except for the Armature. The Stop and Armature will experience magnetic polarity at the air gap. When the magnetic attraction becomes strong enough, the armature will move and contact the stop.This is the "click" you click hear when the solenoid is turned on. The Spring returns the Armature when the solenoid is shut off.
Click on an illustration to see an enlargement.
© Scott Kirkendall