Solenoid Applications

Claimed by Ryan Reed

A solenoid is simply a tightly-wound coil of wire, with its length being substantially greater than its diameter. When an electric current runs through the solenoid, it exerts a uniform magnetic field from the center of the coil. Solenoids have a wide range of applications in the modern world, as the magnetic field which is created by the electric current can be turned on or off, and can be strengthened or weakened by adjusting the electric current. From car doors to medical equipment, solenoids are a common part of our everyday lives.

Standard Solenoid

The Main Idea

Solenoids can be found in electric locking mechanisms, medical equipment, cars, air conditioning systems, and numerous other devices. But first it is imperative that one understands how a solenoid produces a magnetic field in order to comprehend their usage in everyday life.

A Mathematical Model

Solenoid Rotated

The formula for the magnetic field of a solenoid is as follows:

[math]\displaystyle{ B = \mu_0 \frac{N I}{l}. }[/math] where N is the number of turns in the coil, [math]\displaystyle{ \mu_0 }[/math] is the magnetic constant, [math]\displaystyle{ I }[/math] is the electric current, and [math]\displaystyle{ l }[/math] is the length of the solenoid.

In order to determine the direction of the magnetic field generated by a solenoid, simply use the right hand rule: curl you fingers in the direction of the current, and the direction that your thumb is pointing is the direction of the magnetic field.

Examples

Automobiles

Solenoids serve a wide variety of uses in modern cars. Automatic door lock systems would not be possible without solenoids.

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References

http://www.thesolenoidcompany.com/applications

http://www.gouldvalve.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/typical-uses-pages-1-3.pdf

http://constructionmanuals.tpub.com/14273/css/14273_56.htm