How do you choose the latching electromagnet?
Choosing the appropriate latching electromagnet is extremely important to ensure that the industrial automation system is energy-efficient, has a strong holding force, and has a high longevity.
The latching electromagnet is different from the regular electromagnet because the latching electromagnet has to be evaluated carefully to ensure that the magnetic equilibrium is balanced.
The following is a step-by-step guide to help you choose the latching electromagnet:
1️⃣. Find out how much holding force (N) you need.
To begin with, you need to find out how much holding force you need:
The object’s weight in kilograms (kg)
Safety factor (usually 2–3 times)
Surface (smooth, rough, and/or coated)
Distance between air gaps ⚠️ Please note that any air gap greatly weakens magnetic force. Always ask the provider for a force test curve.
2️⃣ ,Check the voltage and the way it is controlled
Some of the following may be applicable:
6V DC
12V DC
24V DC
Check:
Design with one or two coils
Need for reverse polarity control
Compatibility with driver circuits
For latching electromagnets, pulse power is needed, and it is able to change polarity.
3. Check the duty cycle and switching frequency
For latching magnets, power is not needed constantly. However, the switching frequency is essential.
Check: How many cycles can you expect every hour/day?
Length of pulse (ms)
Time needed to respond
For high-frequency switching, the resistance of the coil and heat management need to be set correctly.
4. Check the mechanical dimensions and space needed for installation.
Check:
Length/Diameter
Holes/threads for mounting
Type of connector and direction of cable
Plunger stroke (if needed)
Make sure it fits without interfering with other parts.
5️⃣ Check if it can withstand different kinds of weather.
Key factors:
Temperature setting
Wetness
Being around dust and/or oil
IP protection level
If it is constructed incorrectly, a permanent magnet may perform poorly at higher temperature settings.
6️⃣ Check safety and reliability requirements
Safety-critical applications:
Holding performance when electricity is out
Lifecycle testing data (over 100,000+ cycles)
Class B, F, and H for coil insulation
Adherence to Industry Standards
7. If needed, compare with a round holding magnet.
If you need to hold something with a magnet continuously without switching, a spherical holding magnet might be a better option.
But if you need to save power and hold continuously off, a latching electromagnet is the better alternative.
8️⃣ Ask for customization possibilities
Professional service providers can accommodate modifications for:
Holding force range
Voltage rating
Structure for water resistance
Special mounting requirements
Optimizing force curve
Customization is essential to ensure perfect magnetic balance and stability for a long period of time.
Checklist for Quick Selection
Required holding force
✅ Control type and voltage
✅ Switching frequency
✅ Size of installation
✅ Weather conditions
✅ Requirements for safety
✅ Test report from supplier
✅ Possibility for custom designs
Last Piece of Advice
It is not only about force when you select the right latching electromagnet. You need to consider other factors too, like magnetic circuit balance and reliability. Before you give your final approval, always ask for technical drawings and force curves.
A latching electromagnet can significantly reduce power consumption and create a safer and better system if selected properly.
