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Pseudo Epsilon
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hi all. I understand wikipaedias explination of eddy currents but could someone please explain more fundamentaly how they work. Thanks in advance :)
Eddy currents are circular electric currents that are induced in a conductive material when it is placed in a changing magnetic field. They are also known as Foucault currents.
Eddy currents are created when a conductive material, such as a metal, is exposed to a changing magnetic field. This can be caused by moving a magnet near the material or by changing the strength of an electromagnet.
Eddy currents have various applications, including in non-destructive testing, magnetic braking, and induction heating. In non-destructive testing, eddy currents can be used to detect defects or flaws in conductive materials. In magnetic braking, they can be used to slow down or stop moving objects. In induction heating, eddy currents can generate heat in a conductive material without direct contact.
Eddy currents can cause a conductive material to heat up, which can be beneficial in applications such as induction heating. However, they can also cause energy loss and unwanted heating in electrical circuits, which is why they are often minimized or controlled in these systems.
Eddy currents can be reduced or controlled by using materials with high electrical resistance, such as laminated or coated metals. Another method is to use materials with low magnetic permeability, which reduces the ability of eddy currents to form. Additionally, the shape and orientation of the conductive material can also affect the strength of eddy currents.