What are the advantages of a solenoid motor over an electric motor?

In summary, using four solenoids to create a motor results in a more efficient design than using a straight electric motor. The motors also generate less noise and wear and tear.
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Nocturnal Bug
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Can force produced by solenoid be converted to mechanical force and be more efficient than electric motor's force?
 
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  • #2
Solenoids and motors are used for different things. Solenoids are good for sliding levers, locking or unlocking doors, advancing a switch one position at a time mechanically.

Motors are good for generating spinning axles for powering wheels, drills, electric screwdrivers or oscillating fans... and myriad other inventions.

Curiously solenoids and motors are combined for your car starting system. The solenoid engages the starter motor gears when the key is turned to start and then disengages the starter motor once the car is started.

If solenoids were as efficient as motors then they would have been used to start your car directly.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solenoid
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_motor
Of course, there are other engineering considerations. Using a solenoid to turn a shaft may result in clunky or erratic movement, or the solenoid may have a short life span because of the choppy motion of its action ie converting linear movement to rotational movement.
 
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  • #3
Rotary solenoid can be used for giving rotating motion? Or linear solenoid with slider crank mechanism which reduces friction during conversion of linear movement to rotational movement? Life span of solenoid may depend upon temperature generated of continuous current supplied. So any alternative to boost efficiency? If friction is reduced to minimum,still won't change efficiency? And what is the amount of current required considering suitable number of turns and thickness of winded material, either more than electric motors?
 
  • #4
Just saw this video on youtube where four solenoids are ganged together to create a motor.

 
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  • #5
Listen to it run, and you can hear the rumbling sound of the piston movement vs a straight electric motor where the sound will be much smooth.

Usually less sound and smoother humming sound means smoother operation and less wear and tear.
 

What is a solenoid motor?

A solenoid motor is a type of electric motor that uses a solenoid (a coil of wire) to create a magnetic field that interacts with a permanent magnet to produce rotational motion.

What are the advantages of a solenoid motor over an electric motor?

1. Efficiency: Solenoid motors are more efficient than traditional electric motors because they have fewer moving parts, resulting in less friction and energy loss.

2. Size and weight: Solenoid motors are typically smaller and lighter than electric motors, making them ideal for applications where space is limited.

3. Speed and torque control: Solenoid motors offer more precise control over speed and torque, making them suitable for a wider range of applications.

4. Durability: The lack of physical contact between the moving parts in a solenoid motor makes it more durable and less prone to wear and tear.

5. Cost: Solenoid motors are generally less expensive to manufacture and maintain compared to electric motors, making them a cost-effective option for many applications.

What are some common uses for solenoid motors?

Solenoid motors are used in a variety of applications, including door locks, vending machines, printers, and automotive systems such as starter motors and fuel injectors.

Can a solenoid motor be used as a replacement for an electric motor?

Yes, in many cases a solenoid motor can be used as a replacement for an electric motor. However, it is important to consider the specific requirements of the application and ensure that the solenoid motor is suitable for the task.

Are there any disadvantages to using a solenoid motor?

One potential disadvantage of a solenoid motor is that it may produce more noise and vibration compared to an electric motor. Additionally, solenoid motors may have limited power output compared to some types of electric motors.

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