What is a small push-pull solenoid
Push-Pull Solenoid is a subset of electromechanical devices and a fundamental component in various applications across all of the industries. From smart door locks and printers to vending machines and car automation systems, these push-pull solenoids contribute significantly to the seamless operation of these devices.
How the small Push-Pull Solenoid work ?
A push-pull solenoid operates based on the concept of electromagnetic attraction and repulsion. When an electrical current goes through the coil of the solenoid, it generates a magnetic field. This magnetic field subsequently induces a mechanical force on a movable plunger, causing it to move in linear direction of the magnetic field, thereby ‘pushing’ or ‘pulling’ as required.
Push movement action: The solenoid ‘pushes’ when the plunger is extended out of the solenoid body under the influence of the magnetic field.
Pull movement action: Conversely, the solenoid ‘pulls’ when the plunger is drawn into the solenoid body due to the magnetic field.
Construction and Working Principle
Push-pull solenoids consist of three primary components – a coil, a plunger, and a return spring. The coil, typically made of solenoid copper wire, is wound around a plastic bobbin, forming the body of the solenoid. The plunger, usually composed of ferromagnetic material, is positioned within the coil, ready to move under the influence of the magnetic field. The return spring, on the other hand, is responsible for returning the plunger to its original position once the electric current is turned off.
When an electric current flows through the solenoid coil, it creates a magnetic field. This magnetic field induces a force on the plunger, causing it to move. If the magnetic field is aligned such that it pulls the plunger into the coil, it is termed as the ‘pull’ action. Conversely, if the magnetic field pushes the plunger out of the coil, it’s the ‘push’ action. The return spring, located at the opposite end of the plunger, pushes the plunger back to its original position when the current is turned off, thus resetting the solenoid for the next operation.
