Large Latching Solenoid
Power companies supply the power to facilitate the way we work and live. We rely on them for a constant supply to maintain our busy lifestyles. However, reliability takes careful planning on the part of the power company. Everything from system maintenance to managing unforeseen faults in a line or component must be handled while keeping the whole system running smoothly. It is essential that the power company be able to isolate power disruption as quickly as possible. This not only helps keep the system stable but protects against equipment damage caused by unattended faults, etc.
A manufacturer of high-voltage electrical power distribution equipment and systems sought a solution to actuate a fault-interrupting device during switching functions in their larger facilities. The device contained a power interrupt switch that would disconnect power if a fault was detected that could not be cleared immediately or if maintenance needed to be performed. The manufacturer needed a solution that would include a durable design, have high latching forces, and respond quickly to disconnect power thus avoiding equipment damage.
It was determined that a large latching solenoid was the best solution for this application. The solenoid held in a latched position with no power by utilizing a permanent magnet. When the system detected a fault or when it needed to be shut down for maintenance, a short pulse was sent to the solenoid which would react immediately to de-latch and interrupt the power. Once the maintenance was complete or the fault fixed, another short pulse of opposite polarity would be applied to the solenoid to return it to the original position. This custom latching solenoid designed by TLX was optimized to handle the specific load capability needed for this application. In addition, the solenoid was direct-acting, temperature stable and had a fast response time.
For applications such as power interrupts, reclosure systems, brake systems and industrial controls, this custom design can be configured to an application’s requirements. Strokes and latching forces are flexible depending on solenoid size.
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