Electromagnetic field analysis and dynamic simulation of a two-valve solenoid actuator

A vector potential finite-element model (FEM) and computational scheme are developed for the evaluation and improvement of the dynamic performance of axisymmetric two-valve solenoid actuators. The derivation of the magnetic energy functional corrects errors that are found in previous formulations. The model is used to study the magnetic characteristics and dynamic behavior of a prototype solenoid valve. Calculated results, including the magnetic force and coil inductance as functions of the coil current and plunger position, as well as the closing and opening times for both valves, show good agreement with measured data. Suggestions are made for a design with better performance, and the superiority is verified by tests. Results indicate that the model and computations are an effective tool for the design of magnetic solenoid valves.>