Solenoid force to electrical current

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between mechanical force produced by a solenoid and the electrical current or power required to achieve that force. Participants explore the factors influencing this relationship, including circuit design and solenoid characteristics.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Mike requests formulas to convert mechanical force to electrical current or power.
  • Some participants suggest that the force produced by a solenoid depends on various factors, including the number and arrangement of windings and the material of the plunger.
  • Mike clarifies that he is interested in the minimum power or current needed for a solenoid driver circuit to hold a force of 2 lbs.
  • Another participant notes that the force generated is influenced by the electrical current, the number of turns in the coil, the solenoid's size, and the magnetic properties of the materials used.
  • An example is provided comparing solenoids in different appliances, highlighting the variability in force output based on design and power source.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the factors that affect the force produced by a solenoid, indicating that there is no consensus on a singular formula or approach to relate mechanical force to electrical current or power.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not establish specific formulas or numerical relationships, and assumptions regarding the design and materials of solenoids remain unresolved.

Mike Phan
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Hi,

Please remind me of formulas to convert the mechanical froce (lb) to electrical current (I) or power (W)? Thanks

Mike
 
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That sounds a bit strange to me. The force should depend just as much upon the number and arrangement of windings, and also the material that the plunger is made of. :confused:
 
I meant, if we design a solenoid driver ckt that can hold 2 lb (force), what power or current minimum needed to do this job.
 
As Danger indicated, the amount of force created is not only related to the amount of electrical current applied, but also to other factors such as the number of turns of wire in the coil, the size of the solenoid, and the magnetic character of the steel used will affect the amount of force developed.

Is the force of 2 lbs on the core?
 
As a 'for instance', some 115 VAC appliances have solenoids which barely put out an ounce of force, such as the hold-down latch in a toaster. Conversely, EftonScience (formerly Edmund Scientific Co.) sells one that runs on two 'D' size batteries and can lift 500 lbs.
 

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