How to control three solenoids and receive input from a level sensor?
Answers
Controlling a Solenoid with an Arduino
By Aidan, updated on 22 November 2018
GIF of Solenoid being turned on and off by Arduino
In this tutorial, we will look at the basics of Solenoids and how they work. Then we will design a small circuit that can drive a Solenoid from the input/output pins on your Arduino board.
We covered a whole bunch of rotational motion concepts when we looked at DC motors and how they are used with Arduino. It’s only fair to give linear motion the same treatment.
Electric solenoids work on similar electromagnetic principles to those of DC motors, however, solenoids can use the magnetic energy to push or pull something rather than turn it. Solenoids are found in paintball guns, pinball machines, printers, valves and even automobiles.
A Solenoid is a coil that when energised, produces a controlled magnetic field down through its centre. By placing a magnetic armature inside that field, the armature can move in or out of the coil. Team this with our Arduino and we open up a number of interesting applications.
The solenoid's strength (the force it can push or pull) is directly proportional to windings of the coil and the current applied. This means that more coils equal greater magnetic fields and greater force. A small design specification for this type of coil is that it must be longer than it is wide, ensuring the magnetic field runs through the centre and allows the in/out movement discussed above.