Attendees at Hannover Messe 2025 were able to see the latest in advanced coils for solenoid valves and hydraulic applications from coil and electrical connector specialist ATAM of Italy. One was a new high-performance coil featuring an external metallic shell that helps minimize magnetic leakage, shown above. Another was the recently ATEX-certified 481 coil, an encapsulated version with an external magnetic core engineered to operate in potentially explosive environments.
Designed for typical hydraulic applications such as on-off and proportional valves, the new monolithic coil is designed to be fully interchangeable with standard coils yet can be customized, even in medium-to-low volumes, with various winding types as specified by the client. Voltages can range from 6V to 250V, with power ratings exceeding 30W.
The external metallic shell was developed using a deep-drawing process on a transfer die. The technique minimizes changes to the steel’s crystalline structure, thereby preserving the metal’s electromagnetic properties. The high-precision construction results in a monolithic part free of the air-gap that would otherwise disrupt the magnetic circuit, significantly reducing magnetic leakage. As a result, the use of copper – an increasingly costly raw material – for windings can be optimized, while still delivering the high magnetic flux required by demanding applications.
One of the most innovative aspects of the 481 coil is its ability to operate in potentially explosive ATEX environments without a significant loss in performance. The feature means that solenoid valve manufacturers can continue to use standard products without redesigning valve bodies or hydraulic assemblies, thus ensuring compliance with regulations without additional costs. The external magnetic core ensures robustness and long-term durability.
ATAM began developing coils for the ATEX sector more than 30 years ago. Headquartered in Agrate Brianza near Milan, it operates a cutting-edge experimental laboratory there that allows its product development team to carry out specific tests and trials under conditions in which the products function. It also has a distribution center in the UK and a fully automated production facility in Taiwan for serving Asian markets. See www.atam.it.
