Electromagnets and valves are small components on which entire systems and vehicles depend. What are the biggest challenges at present when actuators are required to become smaller, more efficient, and, at the same time, even more reliable as power density increases?

If actuators are to become smaller and more efficient whilst power density increases, and at the same time meet the highest reliability requirements, precision alone is not enough. It is crucial to tailor the product precisely to the specific application and its operating conditions. The actuator is always part of an overall system. That is why we invest a great deal of time in understanding the application and make targeted use of our ever-expanding technological toolkit for the development and production of bespoke solutions. Our greatest challenge – and at the same time our mission – is to ensure our customers’ success.

Hydrogen and fuel cells place particular demands on valves, for example in terms of safety, leak-tightness and pressure. What makes this application so technically challenging, and how does Magnet-Schultz address this?

Hydrogen poses particular challenges for valves. The hydrogen molecule is smaller than most other gases and therefore places high demands on the leak-tightness of all components. At the same time, storage pressures of over 700 bar are reached, particularly in mobile applications, which require special valve designs and materials. Added to this are the demands of the application itself: vehicles require reliable operation across a wide range of temperatures, whilst subjected to vibrations, humidity and changing operating conditions. Safely managing these constraints requires comprehensive safety assessments, intensive testing, and rigorous quality and inspection processes. This is precisely where Magnet-Schultz’s core competencies lie.

What specific solutions will you be showcasing in 2027, and what should design engineers take away from your stand?

In 2027, we will be showcasing both specific examples of solutions from our application areas – automotive, aerospace, hydraulics, pneumatics, medical technology, hydrogen and trucks – as well as our standard range of electromagnetic, electric motor and mechatronic actuators. A particular focus will be on our Smart Actuators, with which we are expanding our portfolio in the spirit of technological openness. Above all, we want design engineers to leave our stand with the realisation that Magnet-Schultz is the right partner when it comes to developing future-proof and application-specific actuator solutions and reliably bringing them into series production.

MAGNET-SCHULTZ GmbH & Co. KG