What is a Continuous Duty Solenoid?
A solenoid is a cylindrical device that contains tight metal coiling with the intent of converting electrical energy over to mechanical power. There are different types of solenoids, like starter solenoids, that have different uses and capacities. What is a continuous duty solenoid? Solenoids are rated for how long they can be powered on. These types of solenoids have a 100% duty cycle rating meaning they can withstand low-level constant use.
Our expert team is here to answer your questions like, “how do they work?” and “what are they used for?” Learn more with Gateway Cable Company below!
Continuous Duty Solenoid vs. Regular Solenoid – What’s the Difference?
A typical starter solenoid is designed to send power to the starter of your engine when the ignition is turned to the start position. The solenoid closes the circuit and sends power through the starter to the engine. Once an engine is running on its own, the solenoid opens the circuit and cuts the power from the starter. So, how does a continuous duty solenoid work? In principle, the idea is the same.
A continuous duty solenoid opens and closes a circuit to control the flow of power. However, the flow of power to this solenoid is at a near-constant, rather than short bursts. The level of power is lower than what is sent through a starter solenoid, but that is to accommodate for a longer duration of work.
What is a Continuous Duty Solenoid Used for?
Now that we have discussed how does a continuous duty solenoid works, you may be wondering, “what are these solenoids used for?” Continuous duty solenoids are utilized when constant power is needed. Due to their ability to run at cooler temperatures, these solenoids won’t burn out while enduring constant workloads.
A continuous duty solenoid may be needed, for example, if a starter battery fails to power a house battery in a van or RV. This would allow the solenoid to run at low levels and charge when the ignition switch is on.
Continuous duty solenoids are used in a wide variety of applications, including:
- Starter motors
- Water pumps
- Air conditioning compressors
- Electric motors
- Valve actuators
- Fuel injectors
Benefits of Continuous Duty Solenoids
Here are some of the benefits of using continuous duty solenoids:
- Increased reliability: Continuous duty solenoids are designed to withstand the increased heat and current that is generated when a continuous load is applied. This makes them more reliable than regular solenoids, which can fail if they are used to control a continuous load.
- Improved efficiency: Continuous duty solenoids are more efficient than regular solenoids, because they do not waste energy as heat when they are not switching a load. This can save you money on your energy bills.
- Longer lifespan: Continuous duty solenoids are designed to last longer than regular solenoids, because they are made with heavier-duty components. This can save you money on replacement costs.
Find Electrical Components at Gateway Cable Company
Still wondering about what is a continuous duty solenoid? Not to worry, contact our team for individualized consultation on your project. We can also outfit you with all of the products you need to get the job done right. If you have a need for a component that you don’t see on our site, request a quote and we can help you out. Turn to Gateway Cable Company for insightful guidance and affordable solutions for all of your cable and electrical needs.