This 12V Large Push-Pull Solenoid provides linear movement for mechanical and electronic projects, with a 40mm body, captive armature, built-in return spring and four M3 threaded mounting holes. Requires a suitable power supply and driver circuit.
Solenoids are basically electromagnets: they are made of a big coil of copper wirewith anarmature (a slug of metal) in the middle. When the coil is energized, the slug is pulled into the centre of the coil. This makes the solenoid able to pull (from one end) or push (from the other).
This solenoid in particular is nice and strong, with a 40mm long body and a 'captive' armature with a return spring. This means that when activated with up to 12VDC, the solenoid moves and then the voltage is removed it springs back to the original position, which is quite handy. Many lower cost solenoids are only push type or only pull type and may not have a captive armature (it'll fall out!) or don't have a return spring. This solenoid has 4xM3 (metric) threaded holes in the bottom for easy mounting.
To drive a solenoid you will need a power transistor and a diode, check this diagram for how to wire it to an Arduino or other microcontroller. You will need a fairly good power supply to drive a solenoid, as a lot of current will rush into the solenoid to charge up the electro-magnet, about 250mA, so don't try to power it with a 9V battery! Works best with a 12V power supply.
Features
40mm long body with strong electromagnetic pull and push capability
Captive armature with return spring for automatic reset after activation
Operates at up to 12VDC
4x M3 threaded mounting holes on base for secure installation
Requires approximately 250mA current draw
Compatible with microcontroller circuits (Arduino, etc.) with appropriate transistor and diode
Recommended 12V power supply for optimal performance
Specifications
12 DC operation (you can use 9-12 DC volts, but lower voltage results in weaker/slower operation)
