Duty cycle
Specifies the length of time a solenoid can be electrically energized and de-energized. There are three categories: Continuous – solenoid on without interruption for long periods of time – usually 2 minutes or longer. Intermittent – coil in energized for a short time, usually not more than 30 seconds, and allowing sufficient cooling time before the next operation. Pulse – coil is energized just long enough for the plunger to seat and then must be allowed to cool sufficiently before the next operation. Formula: ON time/(ON + OFF) time Example – If a solenoid is energized 1 second out of 4 seconds, the duty cycle is 1/(1+3) = ΒΌ or 25%.
