Car Solenoids
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Car Solenoids
A solenoid is basically an electromagnet. It works the same as a relay. A coil of wire wrapped around a metal core and when the coil is energised with electricity it becomes a magnet. The magnet attracts metal items to one end of it. Turn off the power and it releases. The relay has been around for years and works on this principal. It attracts an armature which operates a bunch of electrical contacts turning circuits off or on. The benefit is you can use a low current circuit to operate a high current circuit. Starter motor and driving lights are a good example.
They have evolved to switch all kinds of things besides power, including vacuum, fluids air and gas. Instead of the flap type of armature found on relays then can pull in or release a metal rod. This has made them more adaptable to control a greater variety of objects.
Popular Questions Asked
What happens when a Solenoid fails?
It is like a switch failing, it simply won't work. Whatever it is controlling will stay in the state it is in before the solenoid is operated. You can normally hear a click when the solenoid engages. If you can't hear it, by resting your finger on the body of it, you should be able to feel it as it engages/disengages.
Why do Solenoids fail?
Heat, vibration, dust, grime and moisture are all contributors for a solenoid failing. Also voltage or current spikes can cause damage. It may not be the solenoid itself, it could be the valve or contacts it control that fail. The solenoid may operate fine but if the valve it controls leaks or the electrical contact is burnt out then it is still a failure. They are usually contained in the same casing so are changed over as a unit.
Can Solenoids be easily replaced?
Solenoids are easily replaced. The issue in most cases is getting to them. What do you need to remove to access the faulty one? There will be a wiring connector to disconnect. These can be difficult as a lot of them have clips to help hold them together. They get stuck over time and require a degree of patience to get them to release without damage.
