A performance improvement strategy for solenoid electromagnetic actuator in servo proportional valve

Abstract

This study presents a simulation model, optimization strategy and the experimental validation of a solenoid electromagnetic actuator that is widely used in industry components, especially in pneumatic/hydraulic valves. In the preliminary design, a two-dimensional magnetostatic finite element analysis (FEA) model is proposed and verified by static push-force comparisons between the two-dimensional FEA model, the three-dimensional FEA model and the experimental results. Then, a static and dynamic performance improvement strategy is proposed. To optimize the static push-force of the actuator, a static multi-objective optimization strategy for actuator structure parameters was developed based on a genetic algorithm. An experimental analysis of dynamic performance was carried out to improve the dynamic response of the actuator. By using a high-precision measuring device in the static-push-force test and dynamic direct current-input-signal tests, the comparisons results between the manufactured conventional actuator and the manufactured optimal actuators showed that the proposed optimization strategy was feasible. Through the static optimization strategy, the average static push-force in the working stroke was improved by 21.8%. Moreover, through the dynamic optimization strategy, the cutoff frequency of the push force response was improved by 129.1%, 79.6% and 74.3%, respectively, at three key positions in the working stroke.