Solenoid Pulse Frequency

[reyemka]

Hi,

I looking at using a linear solenoid to open and close a port at a rate of 10-20Hz with a 50% duty cycle. Will a battery powered solenoid be able to operate at this frequency?

Thanks,

 

[Skogsgurra]

Yes. As long as you provide enough voltage and amperage from the battery. And the appropriate coil and electronics. Batteries are no different than rectified mains.

You need to tell a lot more if the question should be answered more in detail.

Gunnar Englund

http://www.gke.org

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100 % recycled posting: Electrons, ideas, finger-tips have been used over and over again...

 

[reyemka]

Thanks. I know there is probably a lot more info needed, but I'm just thinking in a conceptual basis first.

 

[OperaHouse]

Fast generally means a lot of voltage to overcome coil inductance. It is not unusual to drive a 6V solenoid with 50V. Consider using a PWM solenoid driver chip which can limit current. National semi had some. Monitoring current with a scope can tell you how fast your mechanical system is. You will see a knee when the solenoid closes and the inductance changes. You may be sad to find that the limiting factor are the mechanicals and not the electronics.