Can I make an electromagnet attract to either pole of a mag?

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    Electromagnet Pole
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the manipulation of an electromagnet to attract either pole of a permanent magnet by reversing the current direction. It includes considerations of design modifications to enhance the electromagnet's functionality.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether an electromagnet can be designed to attract either pole of a permanent magnet by changing the current direction.
  • Another participant agrees that it is possible and elaborates on the design of the electromagnet, noting that both poles are brought out on one end to maximize holding force.
  • A further clarification suggests that to effectively attract either pole, modifications such as adding an extension to the center pole or removing the outer return cylinder may be necessary.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the possibility of attracting either pole of a permanent magnet with an electromagnet, but there are differing views on the necessary modifications to achieve this.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss specific design features and modifications without resolving the effectiveness of the proposed changes or their implications on performance.

radaballer
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Can an electromagnet like this one be manipulate to attract either pole of a permanent magnet by running the current in either direction?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Metal-11LB-5kg-0-5A-Electric-Lifting-Magnet-Holding-Electromagnet-9V-DC-50N-/161550273936?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item259d258d90
 
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radaballer said:
Can an electromagnet like this one be manipulate to attract either pole of a permanent magnet by running the current in either direction?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Metal-11LB-5kg-0-5A-Electric-Lifting-Magnet-Holding-Electromagnet-9V-DC-50N-/161550273936?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item259d258d90

Yep! :smile:
 
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berkeman said:
Yep! :smile:

Actually, I need to modify my answer...

If you look at the alternate images you will see the "holding end" of the electromagnet. To make the strongest holding force, they bring both poles of the electromagnet out on that end, with a center pole an an outer pole that have opposite N/S on them. That way when you attach it to a ferrous metal plate, the magnetic path length through the air is minimized.

So, if you want to be able to attract a N or S pole with this, you would do best to put an extension piece on the center pole, to get it away from the outer return cylinder. Or you may be able to take it apart and remove the outer return cylinder.

Makes sense?
 
berkeman said:
Actually, I need to modify my answer...

If you look at the alternate images you will see the "holding end" of the electromagnet. To make the strongest holding force, they bring both poles of the electromagnet out on that end, with a center pole an an outer pole that have opposite N/S on them. That way when you attach it to a ferrous metal plate, the magnetic path length through the air is minimized.

So, if you want to be able to attract a N or S pole with this, you would do best to put an extension piece on the center pole, to get it away from the outer return cylinder. Or you may be able to take it apart and remove the outer return cylinder.

Makes sense?
Yes, thank you
 
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