Most efficient wire gauge for induction coils

[Cspeed]

I am trying to find out which combination of wire loop diameter and thickness produces the most current. The problem with thin wire is obviously that it has a lot of internal resistance, but it is easier to wind in more loops. Does anyone know for a fact if a certain gauge/thickness is the best, or does it severely depend on the experiment's setup?

 

[Dale]

Why don't you try the http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/solenoid.html#c3". You will have to supply the current for the different wire gauges and also the spacing, but once you have that you should be able to plug in a few different values just to see the general trend.

 

[Cspeed]

Thanks for the response. I'm not sure about that calculator - I'll admit that I don't know a lot about this subject, and permeability especially. I know that wikipedia has a table of resistance per unit length for copper wire. I guess I'm just not sure how I would mathematically find which gauge is best, except through experimentation (and I don't own every gauge).

I'm sure that using wire that is .1 m thick wouldn't be very efficient, because few turns could get in. Other the other side, something that is .0000000001 m thick would be so thin that the resistance would probably be terrible. From anyone's experience, would it be better to use something like AWG 24, or 28, or 30, or 40 etc.?

 

[Forrestanfo]

I am currently winding a 6 Inch Minimum, Ruhmkorff Coil. I have a core 18"x1-1/2" I.D. I will wind 17 " of number 12, 2 layers, 250 Turns total. I will have the ability to run with the 250 turns, or 175, in parallel. The outside diameter of the insulated primary will be 2-1/2", so my "Pies"-"Yo-Yo's" will be 6.25", I will probably go to 6.5". So the Sides of the "pies" will be 7"-7-1/2". The Secondary will be 8.75", which is really .75 over specification, however, My inner and outer insulation will be "bullet proof". Also a good coil, should be able to be disassembled. Don't try and max out your spark, it WILL lead to a Failure. If your building a 6" Coil, Don't go over 7". Size 34 wire is good, 36, cannot alway handle the pressure, and it is MUCH harder to work with. Is it that important to have a smaller coil, give a bigger spark? If your in some kind of competition, go for #38 or #40. Have FUN! I could go on with specs, any questions please ask.

 

[sardar]

I understand your interest in finding the most efficient wire gauge for induction coils. The ideal wire gauge for an induction coil will depend on several factors, such as the experiment's setup, the material being used, and the desired current output. In general, a thinner wire will have higher resistance, leading to a lower current output, but it is easier to wind more loops. On the other hand, a thicker wire will have lower resistance, resulting in a higher current output, but it may be more challenging to wind multiple loops.

To determine the most efficient wire gauge for your specific experiment, it is essential to consider the trade-off between resistance and the number of loops. This can be achieved by conducting a series of experiments using different wire gauges and measuring the resulting current output. You can also consult with other scientists in your field or conduct a literature review to see what wire gauges have been used in similar experiments.

Additionally, the material of the wire can also impact its efficiency. Some materials, such as copper, have lower resistance than others, making them more suitable for induction coils. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the material's conductivity when selecting the appropriate wire gauge.

In conclusion, there is no one "best" wire gauge for induction coils, as it will depend on the specific experiment's setup and goals. It is essential to consider the trade-off between resistance and the number of loops, as well as the material's conductivity, to determine the most efficient wire gauge for your experiment.