The discussion centers on the optimal power sources for homemade electromagnets, emphasizing the drawbacks of battery and AC sources. Users highlight that batteries can deplete quickly, while AC sources create an oscillating magnetic field that generates heat. The conversation also stresses the importance of using multiple turns of thin wire in electromagnet design to enhance magnetic strength, as opposed to using fewer thick wires. Proper insulation and wire arrangement are critical for effective electromagnet functionality.
PREREQUISITESThis discussion is beneficial for DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists in electronics, and anyone interested in building efficient electromagnets for projects or experiments.
Am I seeing things, or has the insulation been stripped off this wire??dorker said:
I hear a setup like the one in the pic will drain the battery in minutes, and using an AC source will mean an oscillating field and heating. So what other options do I have for a power source if I want a working homemade electromagnet?
He's not even there yet. If it's stripped the current shorts through the nail and there's no N-S magnetic field around the nail, just the 'pole-less' magnetic field around a current carrying conductor. That will attract ferrous metal, but you can't increase the strength with more turns and the nail becomes moot. If it's stripped, the person doesn't understand the reason for looping the wire in the first place, much less why it's looped around a ferrous metal.Bandit127 said: