Solenoids

Here is some valuable bio-data revealing more working details about AC & DC solenoids which will also help you in selecting the right type for your exact requirement, though in most of the cases it is predetermined.
AC solenoid tends to be more powerful on lower stroke than DC. At the cost of ‘Inrush Current’ which at maximum stroke can more that ten times the closed current. Complete closing is essential to bring this current down to normal.
DC solenoid takes the same current throughout the stroke and does not overheat even it sometimes incomplete closing occurs by chance.
AC operations is usually faster as compared to DC but even then depends on variations in response time in energizing the solenoids.