If you are studying electronics and/or physics, you will definitely run across the term “inductor coil.” This passive device is also referred to as an:
* Inductor
* Coil
* Reactor
* Magnet coil
* Inductance
In the process, inductor coils are resistors. They, therefore, act as filters in diverse electronic equipment.
What Are the Components of an Inductor or Coil?
The most basic of passive terminals, an inductor, at its simplest, consists of two parts:
1. A conductor – usually a wire
2. A core (or bobbin) – around which the coil or wire is wrapped. It acts as a support system for the coiled wire, providing it with a solid base upon which to rest
When an electric current passes through the wire, it retains energy as long as the charge continues to flow. Although, technically, the coil of wire is sufficient, the introduction of the core into the equation results in a magnetic field that is stronger than the one produced using the wire alone.
Core Composition
The core for the inductor coil is composed of one of several materials. The choice depends upon several factors including:
* Do you want to affect the magnetic field?
* If so, by how much?
The selection of the material for the core can be quite influential. As a result, it is important to understand the properties of the intended core and their potential impact upon the inductor. Among the more common core material are:
* Ceramic – generally simply a support mechanism
* Zinc and manganese
* Zinc and nickel
* Powdered iron – This stores a higher level of magnetic flux therefore, providing a venue through which a greater level of DC current can flow before reaching the saturation point
In fact, any iron added to the core will increase the capacity of inductance.
What Influences the Capacity of an Inductor?
Inductors do have limits in their capacity. How high or low the level is governed by several factors. In fact, four main factors control this. They are:
* Number of coils: If you have more coils, you increase inductance
* Core Material: As noted above, the make-up of the core will influence levels
* Size and shape of the Coil: The wider the coil, the greater the area the more inductance
* Coil Length: If the coil is short, it results in overlapping coils, therefore increasing inductance
In determining the capacity, engineers and technicians use a specific formula.
The Inductor Coil
Inductors are powerful if simple. These devices work alone as a low-pass filter or combine with resistors and capacitators for more complex filtering. They also play a strong role in traffic safety. While the inductor coil may have its limits, it remains an integral part of many electronic applications.
