In general, a solenoid uses electromagnetic force to move a plunger, thereby converting electric energy into mechanical motion. (“Electromagnetic” means it’s only a magnet when electricity ...

Solenoids are everywhere. They open the water valve in your dishwasher, control the flow of gas in your stove, regulate ink delivery in printers, and play a crucial role under the hood of your car.

The solenoid engine is built almost completely from metal stock shaped in a machine shop, including the solenoids themselves. The build starts by making them out of aluminum rod and then winding ...