A 24V DC solenoid is an electromagnetic actuator specifically designed to operate from a 24V direct current (DC) power supply.
A 24V DC solenoid is an electromagnetic actuator specifically designed to operate from a 24V direct current (DC) power supply. These devices are used to provide remote or automatic activation or switching motion for a secondary motor. They typically consist of a static coil wound with a hollow core and a spring-loaded ferrous metal plunger. The plunger is usually positioned so that its end is in or near the opening in the coil core. When the solenoid coil is energized with 24-volt direct current, the coil generates a strong magnetic force that pulls the plunger toward the core, providing the necessary actuation motion as it does so.
The solenoid is one of the most common sources of remote or automated activation and switching motion. Part of the great appeal of the solenoid as an actuator is its inherent simplicity of construction and operation. Most solenoids simply consist of a coil of hollow core wire and an armature steel spring or plunger. When the coil is energized by an electrical current, a powerful magnetic field is generated around it, pulling the plunger or armature toward the coil and activating the secondary device in the process. When power to the coil is cut, the plunger spring pulls it out of the coil core and resets the solenoid.
The 24 VDC solenoid is one such device designed to work with a specific power source, namely 24 volts DC. Direct current power supplies differ from conventional alternating current (AC) power at a wall outlet in that they do not have the characteristic AC polarity reversal cycle. Direct current power is usually available from a battery or rectified AC source. This means that some planning is required in terms of power supply when installing a 24VDC solenoid to ensure that an adequate supply is available.
Electromagnetic actuators, like the 24 VDC solenoid, tend to be a bit simpler than those designed for AC or dual power supplies. This is due to the fact that they do not suffer from the “chatter” that their AC siblings do as a result of the 60 cycle polarity reversal. This eliminates the need for guard rings, making the DC solenoid less complex, quieter, and more efficient. Care should always be taken when installing a 24 VDC solenoid to use the correct power supply class and voltage. An incorrect power supply can cause overheating, with the potential to damage or destroy the solenoid.