BCIT Physics Department
- To demonstrate the effects of the current induced in a non-magnetic conductor when the conductor passes through a magnetic field.
A flat aluminum ring that is discontinuous (has a gap) is allowed to swing freely between the poles of a magnet. The ring swings unimpeded except for pivot friction.
The "gapped" aluminum ring is replaced with one having no gaps in its circumference. This ring is allowed to swing through the magnetic field. This time, the ring comes to a halt within two or three cycles. The eddy currents produced have been allowed to circulate around the ring, setting up an opposing magnetic field, which resists the motion (Eddy current braking).
One immediate implication is the construction of iron-cored transformers. The core is built up or laminated with thin sections of iron that do not allow a continuous flow of Eddy currents, transversely or circularly. Thus "Eddy current losses" are minimized.
Watch an Eddy Currents
video demonstration on Youtube
- Video Created at Utah State University by Professor Boyd F. Edwards and assistants.