If you're developing a new product and you need a solenoid, you may want to order a custom solenoid. That is the best way to ensure that you get the right fit for your needs. However, there are numerous companies that offer these services. To ensure you choose the best company for your needs, keep these tips in mind.

Offers Prototypes

To ensure the design you have in mind works in the long run, you need to have a prototype designed. Make sure the company you select is willing to make prototypes. Unfortunately, some companies may not be willing to do a one-off prototype. Instead, they may only focus on large batch orders. 

Does Testing on Site

Once you have the prototype, you need to ensure that it can withstand a range of different situations. If you have the ability to run tests in your own lab, you don't have to look for a custom solenoid company that does on-site testing, but in most cases, this can be a useful advantage.

In particular, you may want the company to test the temperatures at which the solenoid can operate. Then, you may want the company to test the strength and endurance of the solenoid. You may also want tests on areas such as insulation resistance and electrical bonding.

Creates Custom Coils

The coil is arguably the most important part of a solenoid. If you need a custom solenoid, you don't want it made with a prefabricated coil. To ensure that doesn't happen, you should look for a company that offers custom coil solutions.

In this vein, look for a company that can create custom bobbins and that can do custom moldings. You may also want a company that advertises services such as high temperature designs, welded connections and magnet wire terminations.

Works With a Range of Production Methods

There are multiple ways to create custom solenoids, and you want to choose a company that manufactures their solenoids in the way that you need right now. However, you may want to go a step further and choose a company that offers a variety of manufacturing methods. Then, you know that company can probably meet your needs in the future as well as in the current moment.

Two of the most common methods are the quick cast method and 3D printing. Quickcast is ideal for lightweight aluminium solenoids, while 3D printing can be super fast and efficient for plastics in particular.