Soft Iron Core Functions in Inductor, Motor & Generator

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The function of a soft iron core is to enhance the magnetic field in devices like inductors, motors, and generators. By increasing the permeability of the core, the magnetic field produced can be significantly greater than that generated in air, with values of permeability for soft iron reaching up to 50,000. Soft iron cores do not retain magnetization once the current ceases, making them ideal for applications involving alternating currents, as they minimize power losses associated with residual magnetism. This property contrasts with "hard" iron, which can lead to inefficiencies in such systems. Overall, the use of soft iron cores is crucial for optimizing performance in electromagnetic applications.
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I would like to know what is the function of soft iron core?
Is there a difference in function when inserting soft iron core in inductor , motor , generator ?
Thank you
 
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The function of an iron core is to produce a bigger magnetic field (as compared to the obtained without the core). For a long coil of length L and formed by N (big N) turns of wire and an intensity I, the magnetic field B is
B=\mu_r\mu_\circ{N\cdot I\over L}
Here \mu_\circ=4\pi10^{-7} is the permeability of vacuum.
\mu_r is the permeability of the core of the coil. If the core is just air, \mu_r=1, and you obtain the same B as in the vacuum. For almost all substances \mu_r \simeq 1. But for ferromagnetic ones (iron, nickel, cobalt, and a few more), \mu_r can be very big, 10 000 or even 50 000. You get a magnetic field ten thousand times bigger!
"Soft" [iron] means that once you the current drops to zero, the iron do not stay magnetized. This is important in motors and the like because in alternating currents (and fields) "hard" iron has power losses.
 
I see.Thanks for your information provided.
 
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