Building a Magnetic Motor Using a Computer Fan

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of building a magnetic motor using a computer fan, specifically focusing on the use of neodymium magnets and the potential for motion without an external power source. Participants explore concepts related to magnetic fields, motor mechanics, and the principles of energy conservation.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes their attempt to build a magnetic motor using a computer fan and seeks guidance on the correct orientation of magnets for motion.
  • Another participant asserts that fixed permanent magnets cannot make the fan spin and questions the validity of YouTube videos promoting such ideas.
  • A suggestion is made to create a gear system that would change the position of the permanent magnets to facilitate movement.
  • It is proposed that using a powered fan to rotate another fan through magnetic coupling could work, emphasizing the need for an external power source for continuous motion.
  • One participant explains that a computer fan operates as an electromagnetic motor and that attempting to create motion with magnets alone violates the principles of physics.
  • Concerns are raised about the implications of discussing perpetual motion machines, which are deemed not permissible within the context of physics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that creating motion solely from magnets without an external power source is not feasible and violates the laws of physics. However, there is disagreement on the methods proposed for achieving motion, such as the use of gear systems or magnetic coupling.

Contextual Notes

The discussion touches on the limitations of the proposed ideas, particularly regarding the conservation of energy and the definition of perpetual motion machines. There are unresolved assumptions about the mechanics of the proposed systems.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in experimental physics, motor design, or the principles of magnetism may find this discussion relevant.

Vincent Punabantu
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I am try to build a magnetic motor using a computer fan on the basis of a video I saw on YouTube. I have placed 4 neodymium magnets at the edges of the fans frame. However the fan has failed to spin from the magnetic field created by the magnets. How can I find the correct orientation in order for the fan to spin due to the magnetic field provided by the magnets
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Fixed permanent magnets won't make your fan spin. There is no "correct orientation". Don't trust random youtube videos promoting nonsense.
 
Then would creating a gear system work instead, which changes the position of the permanent magnets
 
If you put your magnets on a different fan and power that, you can use it to rotate your fan. That is the concept of a magnetic coupling.

No matter what you do, in order to have anything moving constantly you'll need an external power source. Energy is conserved, and there are always losses due to friction.
 
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A computer fan is an (electro)magnetic motor. It has permanent magnets, and you apply an electric current to create rotary motion.

If you are trying to create motion with magnets only, and no outside power source, just stop now. That violates what we know about physics.
 
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Thank you I'll look into that and make modifications
 
Yes, this is an attempted perpetual motion machine, which violates the laws of physics and rules of this forum. Thread locked.
 

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