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View Full Version : Solenoid Actuator Legality

MariOlsen
12-02-2015, 20:56
Our team is using these solenoid actuators:
http://www.amazon.com/400mA-Frame-Solenoid-Electromagnet-9-9LB/dp/B00DUYPQHU/ref=pd_sbs_indust_4?ie=UTF8&refRID=117Z02FP2DX4ZBBQ6TM0#productDetails

It's a bit late, but we wanted to make absolutely sure we satisfy R18, specifically that they have a "rated electrical input power no greater than 10 watts (W) continuous duty at 12 volts (VDC)". Since the specs don't list a power rating, we used P=IV to calculate that (.4A)*(12V)=4.8W. Was this the correct approach? Thanks!
GeeTwo
12-02-2015, 23:44
Looks correct to me (MS Physics) - the power can't be any greater than VI. Be sure to bring a copy of (and link to) the "See more product details" page to competition so you can make your case with the inspectors.
JohnFogarty
13-02-2015, 00:06
Just to let you know. Your PCM will only be able to handle one of those solenoids. The PCM per cross the road's manual can only handle a load of 500mA across the solenoid ports.

If you were going to use a spike relay you can ignore my previous statement.
GeeTwo
13-02-2015, 00:23
If you were going to use a spike relay you can ignore my previous statement.
Absolutely. Solenoids controlled by the PCB (which I hadn't though of because it wasn't stated as a pneumatics issue) have much stricter standards in terms of current/power draw.
MariOlsen
13-02-2015, 10:58
If you were going to use a spike relay you can ignore my previous statement.

Thanks! We are using a single Spike to run both.