FAQ2019-07-15T15:51:55-05:00

FAQ

Can MSA provide solenoids with specific electrical connections?2017-12-27T23:09:45-06:00

MSA reference designs are supplied with either lead-wires or quick-connect terminals. Specific electrical connections can be provided for your application.

Are your solenoids available through a distributor?2017-12-27T23:20:15-06:00

Yes. One can purchase selected reference designs of MSA’s electromagnetic product line through McMaster Carr.

How do I determine what duty cycle is needed for my application?2017-12-27T23:19:36-06:00

Duty cycles are calculated as a percentage of “on time” vs. the “off time”. A typical calculation is as follows: [(30 seconds on) /(30 seconds on + 90 seconds off)] x 100% = 25% Duty Cycle

  • Continuous Duty is typically defined as 100% duty cycle
  • Intermittant Duty is typically defined as 25% duty cycle for D-Frame Solenoids, and 10% for cylindrical solenoids
  • Pulse Duty is typically defined as 10% duty cycle (max on-time does not exceed 100ms
Where does MSA have local sales representation?2017-12-27T23:18:53-06:00

MSA manufacturers representatives can be found under Sales & Distribution within the Why MSA section. If a representative is not listed in your area, please feel free to contact MSA directly.

Are 3D solid model files available for download?2017-10-30T21:05:55-05:00

Yes. The MSA web site offers both 2D and 3D CAD files for all reference designs.

What is the life-cycle rating of MSA solenoids?2017-12-27T23:17:51-06:00

Life-cycle rating depends on many factors which are determined by the application. Under conditions involving simple linear motion, MSA’s electromagnetic style solenoids typically provide in excess of one million actuations. Higher life-cycle requirements can also be met with well-established design enhancements, and effective system design.

Are MSA solenoids rated for outdoor use?2017-12-27T23:16:35-06:00

The typical MSA electromagnetic solenoid product line is not rated for outdoor use. MSA often designs customized solenoids which can be used outdoors.

Does MSA offer AC solenoids?2017-12-27T23:15:56-06:00

Yes. MSA can convert our more typical DC style solenoids into AC solenoids by redesigning the coil. In some cases, a bridge rectifier can also be added to the coil.

Are your solenoids available with a return spring?2017-12-27T23:15:27-06:00

Yes. MSA can incorporate a return spring into the solenoid to meet customer specifications.

How does one reverse the direction of the solenoid plunger?2017-12-27T23:15:01-06:00

Either gravity, or some sort of spring mechanism is needed to return the plunger to its original position after voltage is removed from the coil. MSA typically incorporates a return spring into the solenoid to meet customer specifications.

Does reversing polarity of a solenoid reverse plunger movement?2017-12-27T23:13:54-06:00

Solenoids only operate in one direction.

  • When the solenoid coil is energized, a fixed internal component (called the stop) becomes magnetized, thereby attracting a moving component (called the plunger).
  • This magnetic attraction creates a pulling motion, moving the plunger toward the stop.

Reversing either the current or the polarity of a solenoid does not reverse the direction of the plunger’s movement

Does reversing the current of a solenoid reverse the direction in which it moves?2017-12-27T23:13:22-06:00

Solenoids only operate in one direction.

  • When the solenoid coil is energized, a fixed internal component (called the stop) becomes magnetized, thereby attracting a moving component (called the plunger).
  • This magnetic attraction creates a pulling motion, moving the plunger toward the stop.

Reversing either the current or the polarity of a solenoid does not reverse the direction of the plunger’s movement

Can solenoids operate in two directions, i.e. both push and pull?2017-12-27T23:12:21-06:00

Solenoids only operate in one direction.

  • When the solenoid coil is energized, a fixed internal component (called the stop) becomes magnetized, thereby attracting a moving component (called the plunger).
  • This magnetic attraction creates a pulling motion, moving the plunger toward the stop.

Reversing either the current or the polarity of a solenoid does not reverse the direction of the plunger’s movement

Are solenoids polarity sensitive?2017-12-27T23:10:48-06:00

DC voltage solenoids are not polarity sensitive. Other Magnet-Schultz products, such as magnetic latching products, are polarity sensitive.

Does MSA rewire/rework/repair solenoid coils?2017-12-27T23:10:19-06:00

MSA’s manufacturing process is geared to produce new product for volume applications used by OEMs. Intricate rework and repair is more costly than manufacturing new product, so it is seldom pursued.

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