DC 12V Mini Push-Pull Solenoid Electromagnet 4mm Stroke LY-02
DC 12V Mini Push-Pull Solenoid Electromagnet 4mm Stroke LY-02
DC 12V Mini Push-Pull Solenoid Electromagnet (LY-02) – 4mm Stroke
Compact and reliable, the LY-02 Mini Solenoid Electromagnet delivers precise push-pull linear motion in a tiny 20×13×16 mm package. Running on DC 12V at just 0.25A, this small but mighty coil is ideal for automation builders, hobbyists, and engineers who need a controllable electric actuator without the bulk.
⚠ Important Usage Note: This electromagnet is designed for intermittent operation only (e.g., 1 second ON / 1 second OFF). Continuous energizing causes heat build-up. We recommend keeping powered-on time to 5 seconds or less per cycle. A cool operating environment will extend service life significantly. Do not leave the coil continuously energized.
Key Specifications
- Model: LY-02
- Type: Push & Pull (double-acting)
- Voltage: DC 12V / 0.25A
- Dimensions: L20 × W13 × H16 mm
- Stroke: 4 mm
- Initial Force: 0.5 N (≈ 50 gf)
- Holding Force: 5 N
- Recommended Max Continuous On-Time: ≤ 5 seconds
- Country of Origin: Made in China
What's in the Box
- 1 × LY-02 Mini Push-Pull Solenoid Electromagnet
Common Applications
The LY-02 is well-suited to a wide variety of automation and consumer-electronics projects, including:
- Arcade & amusement game machines
- Vending and ticketing machines
- Point-of-sale (POS) cash registers
- Slot and coin-handling equipment
- Automated office equipment (paper feeders, sorters)
- DIY robotics, locking mechanisms, and micro-actuator projects
Why Choose the LY-02?
- ✅ Ultra-compact – fits into tight enclosures where larger solenoids cannot
- ✅ Dual-action – both push and pull operation in one unit
- ✅ Low power draw – only 3 W at full voltage, friendly to microcontroller relay boards
- ✅ Simple wiring – two bare leads, compatible with any DC 12V supply or relay module
- ✅ Versatile – drop-in actuator for custom enclosures, 3D-printed frames, and PCB-mounted fixtures
For guidance on safe use of electrical components and solenoid actuators in DIY and industrial settings, see the OSHA Electrical Safety resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I run this 12V solenoid electromagnet continuously?
A: No — the LY-02 mini solenoid is designed for intermittent duty only. We recommend keeping each powered-on cycle to 5 seconds or less, with at least an equal off period. Extended continuous energizing will cause the coil to overheat and may damage the unit. Using a timer relay or microcontroller PWM signal to manage duty cycle is the best practice.
Q: What voltage and current does the LY-02 solenoid require?
A: The LY-02 operates at DC 12V and draws 0.25A (approximately 3 watts). It is not suitable for AC power supplies or voltages significantly above 12V. A standard DC 12V wall adapter or regulated power supply works perfectly.
Q: How much force does this mini push-pull electromagnet produce?
A: At the start of the 4mm stroke the initial force is 0.5N (about 50 grams-force). As the plunger reaches the seated/holding position the holding force increases to 5N. This makes the LY-02 suitable for lightweight locking, latching, and actuation tasks in automation and hobby projects.
Q: Can I control this solenoid with an Arduino or Raspberry Pi?
A: Yes. Because the LY-02 runs on DC 12V (above the GPIO logic level), you will need a relay module or a transistor/MOSFET driver board between your microcontroller and the solenoid. The microcontroller sends a control signal to the driver, which switches the 12V supply to the solenoid coil.
Q: What are the physical dimensions of this small electromagnet?
A: The LY-02 measures 20mm (L) × 13mm (W) × 16mm (H) with a 4mm plunger stroke — making it one of the most compact push-pull solenoids available for miniature automation applications.