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Electromagnets

Our electromagnets offer versatile solutions for industrial applications. Whether for lifting heavy loads, fixing workpieces or precisely sorting and transporting materials - our products fulfil the highest quality and safety standards. Discover our customised magnetic solutions that support efficiency and reliability in your production processes.
Electro holding magnets and permanent electro holding magnets with high holding force for industrial applications
Holding magnets round & rectangular
Rectangular solenoid with cable connection for precise actuation and locking applications
Linear and actuating solenoids
All products

Electromagnet - function & explanation

A current-carrying coil causes a magnetic field in its immediate vicinity. An iron core made of ferromagnetic material serves to strengthen the magnetic field. The magnetic north pole is where the magnetic field lines leave the iron core. At the magnetic south pole, the field lines re-enter the iron core.

This functional principle is utilised to either pick up or hold ferromagnetic objects by means of a holding solenoid or to move mechanisms by means of a lifting solenoid.

The magnetic fields of electromagnets can be individually adjusted via voltage regulation. This is particularly important for thin sheets in order to prevent the field lines from affecting the underlying materials. Conversely, the magnetic force decreases as the air gap increases. This can be counteracted by briefly overexciting the coils.

Picture of Christian Berger
Christian Berger

Sales field service at
magnet.works

  • Last updated: 10.06.2026
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Electromagnets - overview of typical variants

Type Description of the
Electro holding magnets Generate a strong magnetic field to hold ferromagnetic objects securely in place.
Electro-permanent holding magnets Combine electromagnetism with permanent magnets for electroless adhesion.
Single-stroke solenoid A linear stroke movement is generated by energising a coil.
Single-acting bistable solenoid Retains its end position after a switching movement without permanent power supply.
bistable solenoid as double solenoid Can assume two stable end positions and remains de-energised there.
Linear solenoids as alternating current solenoids Utilises alternating current to generate motion, often for industrial applications.
Brake solenoid Used for targeted deceleration or to stop mechanical movements.
Magnetic coupling Transmits torque without contact by magnetic forces.

Areas of application for electromagnets in industry

Overview of the areas of application

Electromagnets are usually used wherever parts or components need to be held, controlled or moved. The principle of a current-carrying coil can also be used in metal detection for separation technology, or to remove any remanence in individual workpieces using a demagnetiser.

Examples of technical applications

There are numerous industrial applications for electromagnets in general. The following are just a few examples from the large overall field
Application Description of the
Electro holding magnets for pick & place applications in robotics Enable precise gripping and placement of objects by robot arms.
Electric holding magnets in holding brakes Hold moving parts securely in a certain position when no current is flowing.
Electric holding magnets in component handling Fix components in production processes for secure machining.
Electromagnetically switchable clutches Enable the targeted coupling and decoupling of mechanical drives.
Electromagnetically switchable brakes Ensure fast and reliable stopping of machines and vehicles.
Linear solenoid as vibration solenoid Generates vibrations for conveying, sorting and separating processes.
Lifting magnets in the scrap industry for handling scrap iron Lift and move large quantities of scrap iron efficiently in recycling plants.
Lifting magnets in steel production Transport heavy steel parts safely and precisely in production processes.
Lifting magnets in the steel trade Facilitate the lifting and stacking of steel plates, beams and pipes.
Lifting magnets for door locking Serve as secure and reliable electric door locks.
Lifting magnets for locking the steps Fix steps on vehicles and machines in the desired position.
Linear solenoids in access systems Control electronic access control for doors and gates.
Linear solenoids as locking solenoids Ensure secure mechanical locking in various applications.
Linear solenoids as pinch valves Regulate the flow of liquids through hoses without direct contact.
Linear solenoids in dosing technology Enable precise control of quantities in dosing systems.
Linear solenoids in ejection systems Control the targeted ejection of parts or products in production processes.
Linear solenoids for moving flaps Opening and closing flaps in machines, vehicles and industrial plants.

Selection and procurement of industrial electromagnets

Selection criteria for electromagnets

In order for us to be able to offer you the right solution, we need as comprehensive an application description as possible. This is used to create a requirements profile which serves as the basis for the design of the solenoids. It can be roughly outlined as follows:

In component handling, the component to be lifted must be described in terms of its dimensions, weight, material and surface properties. In addition, the work cycle must be known.

For linear solenoids, in addition to the overall application, the stroke distance must also be known, as well as the required force, the installation position, are there any transverse forces that must be absorbed by the armature, etc....

Electrical requirements such as the desired voltage or required cables or plugs can be customised. As we at magnet.works wind our coils ourselves, a wide variety of winding wires can be specified. This ensures that exactly the wire that your application requires is used.

Tips for procurement and integration into existing systems

Our competent sales team will be happy to arrange an on-site appointment to discuss the best possible solution for your application.

Future prospects and innovations

In addition to the customised production of your required electromagnet, holding solenoid or linear solenoid, we can also offer a wide range of innovative additional options such as

  • Digital type plates: so that, for example, your technicians can read out the number of switching cycles using a readout device or contact us immediately in the event of a replacement.
  • Condition monitoring: Switching times and current consumption can provide an indication of the state of wear.
  • DC/DC converter to ensure that the solenoid always receives the required voltage in the event of large voltage fluctuations.
  • PWM modules
  • Rectifier plug
  • In general, customised solutions for controlling your electromagnet, holding solenoid or linear solenoid can be developed together with you. We can also offer all the necessary tests for control hardware and software.