FAQ
Frequently asked Questions.
A: Yes. We routinely work with applications in vacuum environments as well as with many customers in the aerospace fields that have low outgas requirements.
Q: Do you sell internationally?
A: Absolutely! With the exception of some trade-regulated countries we regularly work with customers all over the world.
Q: What is the minimum order for custom designs?
A: Custom designs typically require a 5 piece minimum, with some exceptions. Submit your inquiry here for more details.
Q: Do you have data sheets?
A: Yes, Look for links to PDF datasheets/drawings on the Rotary Solenoids page.
Q: What is the difference between bi-stable and self-restoring types?
A: Visit the Rotary Solenoids page to see bi-stable and self-restoring operation in action, as well as to read more about the different types of solenoids we manufacture.
Q: Where can I find torque data?
A: You may use the submit an inquiry link to ask about a specific design’s torque and other load characteristics.
Q: What forms of payments are accepted?
A: Accepted forms of payment are business check or money transfer (terms net 30 with purchase order), or a major credit card.
Q: What certification does Brandstrom Instruments have?
A: We are Certified to AS9100D / ISO 9001:2015, click here to view our certification.
Q: Where are your products manufactured?
A: All of our products are manufactured at our facilities in Ridgefield CT, U.S.A. We utilize domestic materials and suppliers.
Q: What is your warranty?
A: Brandstrom Instruments warrantees our products for one year from date of shipment.
Solenoid Q&A
What are the different types of optical shutters?
There are rotary drive, iris and guillotine shutters to name a few. Brandstrom Instruments is a manufacturer of rotary solenoid optical shutters.
What is the difference between mechanical and electronic shutter?
Mechanical shutters function by moving a shutter, vane or filter in front of the aperture or light source, like a laser beam. A electronic shutter relies on image information gathered from a sensor that gathers the data one line at a time.
How does a solenoid work?
A solenoid is a simple solid state motor relying on an internal coil to generate a magnetic field to change state.
What is a bistable solenoid?
A bistable solenoid refers to a 2-state solenoid that changes state from position 1 to position 2 when a 50-100ms pulse of positive power is applied. It then remains magnetically latched until a reverse (negative) 50-100ms pulse is applied to return it back from position 2 to position 1.
What is a momentary solenoid?
This is a rotary solenoid that changes state from position 1 to position 2 when power is applied and remains in the secondary position until power is removed to return back to position 1.
What is a rotary solenoid actuator?
A rotary solenoid actuator is an rotary solenoid but with an attachment other than a shutter meant to move another device in the system.
How do solenoid actuators work?
A solenoid actuator works on the same principle as all other solenoids, but with an attachment other than a shutter meant to perform work. See solenoids in action.