Editorial Technical Reference

Actuator/Solenoid

This page explains how Actuator/Solenoid is classified within Electrical Equipment Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

Electromechanical device that converts electrical signals into mechanical motion within a trip unit.

View Full Specifications Explore Manufacturing Sources
Representative product image. Confirm appearance and specifications with the manufacturer.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Actuator/Solenoid

Definition
An actuator/solenoid in a trip unit is a critical component responsible for initiating the mechanical tripping action when an electrical fault is detected. It receives signals from the trip unit's sensing circuitry and generates the precise mechanical force needed to open the circuit breaker contacts, thereby interrupting current flow and protecting the electrical system. This component is typically used in low-voltage circuit breakers and is designed to operate reliably under specified conditions. The actuator/solenoid consists of a coil wound with copper wire, a core made of electrical steel, a plastic bobbin or housing, and a return spring made of spring steel. These materials are selected for their electrical, magnetic, and mechanical properties. The device operates on a supply voltage of 24 V DC (±10%) per IEC 61131-2, with a power consumption of 5–20 W at rated voltage (IEC 60034-1). It has a response time of 30–100 ms from signal to full stroke (IEC 60947-5-1) and a duty cycle of 25–100% maximum on-time per cycle (IEC 60034-1). The ambient temperature range is -40 to 85 °C (non-condensing) per IEC 60068-2-1, and the ingress protection rating is IP54–IP65 per IEC 60529. The nominal diameter range is 15–100 mm (ISO 6708), and the flow coefficient (Kv) at full stroke is 1.6–160 m³/h (IEC 60534-2-1). The body material is stainless steel grades 304–316 (ASTM A276) for corrosion resistance, and the weight ranges from 1.5 to 12 kg depending on size and pressure rating. These parameters are directory reference ranges and must be confirmed for the specific model and application. Always verify model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier.
Working Principle
When the trip unit detects an overcurrent, short circuit, or other fault condition, it sends an electrical signal to the solenoid coil. This energizes the coil, creating a magnetic field that pulls a plunger or armature. This linear mechanical motion is then transferred through a linkage mechanism to release the latch holding the circuit breaker contacts closed, causing them to open and interrupt the circuit. The return spring resets the actuator after the fault is cleared. The response time from signal to full stroke is 30–100 ms, ensuring rapid interruption. The duty cycle and power consumption must be considered for continuous operation. The actuator operates within specified ambient temperature and ingress protection limits. Proper selection requires verifying operating pressure, nominal diameter, flow coefficient, and supply voltage against the application requirements.
Common Materials
Copper (coil winding), Electrical steel (core), Plastic (bobbin/housing), Spring steel (return spring)
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Nominal Diameter15–100 mmSize range for standard trip unitsISO 6708
Flow Coefficient1.6–160 m³/hKv value at full strokeIEC 60534-2-1
Response Time30–100 msFrom signal to full strokeIEC 60947-5-1
Duty Cycle25–100 %Maximum on-time per cycleIEC 60034-1
Supply Voltage24 ±10% V DCOther voltages on requestIEC 61131-2
Power Consumption5–20 WHolding power at rated voltageIEC 60034-1
Ambient Temperature-40–85 °CNon-condensingIEC 60068-2-1
Ingress ProtectionIP54–IP65Dust-tight and water-resistantIEC 60529
Body Material304–316 SSStainless steel for corrosion resistanceASTM A276
Weight1.5–12 kgDepends on size and pressure rating

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Solenoid Coil
    Converts electrical energy into magnetic field when energized
    Material: Copper wire, electrical steel core, plastic bobbin
  • Plunger/Armature Part
    Moves linearly within the magnetic field to generate mechanical force
    Material: Magnetic steel or soft iron
  • Return Spring Part
    Returns the plunger to its resting position when coil is de-energized
    Material: Spring steel
  • Housing Part
    Provides structural support and protects internal components
    Material: Thermoplastic or thermoset plastic

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Trip Unit
View system integration details
Dosing Pump/Valve
View system integration details
Transfer Switch
View system integration details

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: 0 to 10 bar
other spec: Operating voltage: 12-24 VDC, Duty cycle: 100% continuous, Response time: <50 ms
temperature: -40°C to +85°C
Media Compatibility
✓ Hydraulic oil (ISO VG 32-68) ✓ Compressed air (dry, filtered) ✓ Water/glycol mixtures
Unsuitable: Corrosive chemicals or abrasive slurries
Sizing Data Required
  • Required force/stroke (N/mm)
  • Operating voltage/current (VDC/A)
  • Mounting configuration/space constraints

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Coil Burnout
Cause: Overvoltage, excessive duty cycle, or poor heat dissipation leading to insulation breakdown and open circuit
Spool Valve Sticking
Cause: Contamination ingress (particles, moisture) or wear debris accumulation causing mechanical binding and erratic operation
Maintenance Indicators
  • Audible buzzing or humming during operation indicating coil issues or armature misalignment
  • Visible external leakage of hydraulic fluid or compressed air at seals/connections
Engineering Tips
  • Implement proper filtration (5-10 micron) in fluid systems and use protective boots on rod-style actuators to prevent contamination ingress
  • Install voltage monitoring with surge protection and ensure adequate cooling/ventilation to prevent thermal degradation of electrical components

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ISO 4401: Hydraulic fluid power - Four-port directional control valves - Mounting surfaces ANSI/B93.5M: Hydraulic fluid power - Solenoid-operated directional control valves DIN EN 175301-803: Detail specification - Connectors, electrical, rectangular, with screw-locking, for industrial environments

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Bore diameter: +/-0.01mm
  • Mounting surface flatness: 0.05mm
Quality Inspection
  • Pressure decay leak test
  • Electrical insulation resistance test

Manufacturers of Actuator/Solenoid

Manufacturer profiles associated with Actuator/Solenoid.

Sourcing Actuator/Solenoid from China?
Tell us your specification and target quantity — we will match it against manufacturer records and come back with the factories that fit.
Request manufacturers We manufacture this

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.
Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Supply Chain Compatible Machinery & Devices

Motor Terminal Block

A motor terminal block is a standardized electrical component that provides secure, insulated connection points for motor winding leads.

Explore Specs →
PLC Control System

A digital industrial computer control system that monitors inputs, makes decisions based on a custom program, and controls outputs to automate industrial processes.

Explore Specs →
Control Panel

A centralized interface for monitoring and controlling industrial equipment and processes

Explore Specs →
PLC Control Panel

A centralized interface unit housing the programmable logic controller and associated control components for industrial automation systems.

Explore Specs →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the function of an actuator/solenoid in a trip unit?

It converts electrical signals from the trip unit's sensing circuitry into mechanical motion to trip the circuit breaker contacts, interrupting current flow during faults.

What are the typical operating parameters?

Typical parameters include supply voltage 24V DC (±10%), response time 30-100 ms, duty cycle 25-100%, ambient temperature -40 to 85°C, and ingress protection IP54-IP65. These are reference ranges; confirm for your model.

What materials are used in construction?

Copper for coil winding, electrical steel for the core, plastic for bobbin/housing, spring steel for the return spring, and stainless steel (304-316) for the body.

How should I verify the suitability of an actuator/solenoid?

Check the operating pressure, nominal diameter, flow coefficient, supply voltage, and other parameters against your application. Always confirm with the legal manufacturer or supplier.
Data basis: editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.
Buyer enquiry

Request manufacturing insight for Actuator/Solenoid

Ask for use case, specification boundaries, supplier type, and RFQ preparation information for this product.

Where it goes
Straight to the CNFX editorial desk, and to the manufacturer if this product is linked to a claimed profile. Nothing is broadcast to a supplier list.
Your details stay here
We do not sell or rent enquiry data, and we do not add you to a mailing list. Used only to answer this request.
No commission, no middleman
CNFX is a directory. We take no cut of any order and never negotiate on a supplier's behalf.
What we don't claim
A listing is not an endorsement. Qualify every supplier and verify every figure yourself before ordering.

Your business information is used only to process this request.

Thank you! Your message has been sent. We'll respond within 1–3 business days.
Sorry, we couldn't send your message. Please try again, or email us at contact@cnfx.com.

Need to Manufacture Actuator/Solenoid?

Compare manufacturer profiles with relevant product and process capability.

Create Manufacturer Profile Contact Us
Previous Product
Wire Tensioning System
Last Product
Get QuotesChat