Tubular Solenoid vs. Frame Solenoid: Which One Is Right for Your Application?

Choosing the right solenoid actuator is an important step in designing reliable electromechanical equipment.

Two common types of linear solenoids are tubular solenoids and frame solenoids.

Although both convert electrical energy into linear mechanical movement, their structures and installation characteristics are different.

This guide explains their differences and helps OEM engineers select the right solution.

1. What Is a Tubular Solenoid?

A tubular solenoid features a cylindrical housing with an internal electromagnetic coil and a movable iron plunger.

When electrical current flows through the coil, a magnetic field is generated, pulling the plunger toward the magnetic center.

Common applications include:

• Electronic door locks

• Vending machines

• Medical equipment

• Automotive mechanisms

• Automated industrial equipment

Tubular solenoids are often selected when a compact cylindrical structure and straightforward installation are preferred.

2. What Is a Frame Solenoid?

A frame solenoid uses an open-frame or metal-frame structure to support the coil and moving armature.

Depending on its design, it can provide convenient mounting arrangements and accessibility for different mechanical configurations.

Typical applications include:

• Industrial automation

• Mechanical switching systems

• Security equipment

• Consumer appliances

• Electromechanical control devices

Frame solenoids can be customized according to mounting space, stroke, force, and operating requirements.

3. Key Differences Between Tubular and Frame Solenoids

Comparison	Tubular Solenoid	Frame Solenoid
Structure	Cylindrical housing	Open-frame structure
Installation	Often axial mounting	Various mounting options
Design	Compact enclosed format	Flexible structural layout
Applications	Locks, vending, medical devices	Machinery, control systems
Customization	Stroke, voltage, dimensions	Frame, stroke, coil design

Actual performance depends on the electromagnetic design and product specifications rather than structure alone.

4. How to Choose the Right Solenoid

Before selecting a solenoid, engineers should evaluate the following parameters.

Operating Voltage

Common designs may use DC or AC power, depending on the application. The required voltage should be specified during development.

Stroke Length

Stroke length refers to the distance the plunger travels during operation.

Operating Force

Determine the minimum force required throughout the working stroke, not simply the initial pulling force.

Duty Cycle

Consider whether the solenoid operates continuously, intermittently, or through short electrical pulses.

Installation Space

Evaluate the available mounting dimensions and mechanical connection.

Operating Environment

Temperature, vibration, humidity, dust, and other environmental conditions may influence material and structural selection.

5. Why Choose a Custom Solenoid Manufacturer?

OEM equipment manufacturers often need more than standard off-the-shelf products.

A custom manufacturer can help optimize the magnetic circuit, coil specifications, mechanical structure, and installation dimensions.

This allows the actuator to match the actual requirements of the equipment.

Conclusion

Both tubular and frame solenoids have important advantages in different applications.

The best choice depends on installation space, required force, stroke, duty cycle, and mechanical integration.

Dongguan Xinding Electronics Technology offers custom solenoid development and OEM/ODM manufacturing solutions.

Contact us to discuss your tubular solenoid or frame solenoid project.