Equipment for Hysteresis Loop for Inductor

[Shadrack]

What instrument would I need to get a hysteresis loop (Flux Density vs Magnetizing Force) for an inductor? Is it something that can be easily obtained given the proper equipment?

Thanks!
-Shad

 

[berkeman]

That's a good question. It would be easiest if you could wind your own test winding around the inductor...would you be able to do that?

Check out the datasheets for the typical inductors that you want to test -- do the datasheets show any test circuit?

 

[ravenprp]

To obtain a hysteresis loop for an inductor, you would need a hysteresis loop tracer. This instrument is specifically designed to measure the flux density (B) vs. magnetizing force (H) relationship for magnetic materials, including inductors. It works by applying a varying magnetic field to the inductor and measuring the resulting flux density.

Hysteresis loop tracers can be easily obtained from electronic equipment suppliers or through online retailers. However, they can be quite expensive and may not be readily available at every electronics store. Alternatively, you could also use an oscilloscope and a function generator to manually measure and plot the hysteresis loop, but this method may be more time-consuming and less accurate.

In summary, while a hysteresis loop tracer is the ideal instrument for obtaining a hysteresis loop for an inductor, it may not be easily obtained for everyone. However, with some research and possibly some creativity, you may be able to find or create a suitable alternative using more commonly available equipment.