Linear solenoids are electromechanical devices that generate a uniform magnetic field when an electric current is applied to them. They are composed of a coil of wire wrapped around a moveable metal core. They are different from rotary solenoids because they exert a simple pushing or pulling force, as opposed to a rotational force.

How do linear solanoids work?

The wire coil on the outside of a linear solenoid is wrapped around the core in a corkscrew fashion. When electricity passes through the wire, a magnetic field is created which moves the mobile metal slug along the length of the solanoid's core.

What are linear solenoids used for?

The applications of linear solenoids take advantage of the ability to smoothly move the metal slug backwards and forwards. Linear solenoids are frequently used in automatic or high-security door-locking mechanisms. They're also used in car starter motors. When the current is switched on, the solenoid brings two points into contact. This completes a circuit, allowing electricity to flow to the necessary parts of the vehicle in order to start the engine.