What is a Solenoid Coil?

A solenoid coil is quite literally a coil made up of tightly wound together copper wiring used as an electromagnet.  Depending on the device setup, a solenoid coil can be used to push and/or pull a magnetic object, often an iron piston, in a linear path.  The electric current running through the coils activates the direction of the magnetic poles, which moves the piston up or down to open or close your device.

This setup is most commonly found in solenoid valves, car starters, and sprinkler systems.  

For a more detailed look at how solenoids work on a most basic level, check out the short and informative video below.