Push solenoids

[buzzp]

I am trying to decide between using a air or electric push solenoid. The solenoid needs to push, horizontally, a light weight device (less than 1/4lb). The operation will be intermittent with a stroke length of around 2-4" depending on speed. We have available, 12VDC power and an air supply. I am trying to determine which will be more reliable in an industrial environment(heavy vibration, shock, dirt). I believe the air solenoids to be more costly (as stand alone units and an additional solenoid required to switch on air to the air solenoid). Does someone know of a good source of information comparing the two? Or having any personal insight to share? Thank you.

 

[cbarn24050]

Hi, it depends on what your load is. You need a big solenoid to get 4" of travel with 1/4 pound thrust. An air ram will be smaller and give you some speed control.

 

[buzzp]

The load is not attached to the solenoid. It is just going to push a 1/4lb object off from a chute. I have not determined the force required to do this yet. I just want to know if it is worthwhile to compare the too. Of course, time is an issue so I do not want to waste time looking into electrical push solenoids if there is reliability issues or if the requirements of the electrical solenoid make it too expensive. I guess if I am going to compare the two I should calculate the force required. Do electrical solenoids operate as quickly as air (not taking into account the electrical delay to actutate the electrical air control solenoid)?

 

[cbarn24050]

Hi, stick with an air ram, you can allways get it to work.