Enhancing Magnetic Fields: Series vs. Parallel Configurations

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the possibility of enhancing magnetic fields through configurations of electromagnetic coils, specifically examining whether magnetic fields can be nested or added together to create a stronger inner field. The scope includes theoretical considerations and practical applications of magnetic field configurations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that magnetic fields can be nested or added together, referencing the common use of electromagnetic coils.
  • One participant questions whether multiple coils placed within each other would result in additive magnetic fields and expresses doubt about this possibility.
  • Another participant cites Ampère's law, indicating that the magnetic field is proportional to the enclosed current, suggesting that wrapping coils could enhance the magnetic field.
  • There is mention of specific configurations, such as the Rodin coil and Polywell, as examples of complex magnetic field arrangements.
  • A participant asserts that the magnetic fields do add together as imagined, emphasizing that each turn of a coil contributes to the overall magnetic field.
  • Links to external resources are provided, including a presentation on a strong nested-coil electromagnet, indicating practical examples of the discussed concepts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether the magnetic fields from nested coils are additive, with some asserting they are and others remaining skeptical. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the limits of this additive property.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference various theoretical and practical aspects of electromagnetism, but the discussion lacks detailed mathematical analysis or definitions that could clarify the conditions under which magnetic fields might be additive.

jerich1000
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Restrictors and capacitors can be put in series or in parallel to amplify their affects.

Hydraulic pistons and pumps can be put in series to intensify pressure. Springs can be put in parallel or in series to come up with alternate, combined properties.

However, I can't think of a case where magnetic fields are somehow nested or added together to make a stronger inner field.

Is it possible to put a magnetic field within a magnetic field, nested in such a way that the inner field is amplified? Or is this not how magnetic fields work?
 
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jerich1000 said:
However, I can't think of a case where magnetic fields are somehow nested or added together to make a stronger inner field.
It's extremely common. Haven't you ever seen an electromagnetic coil?
 
Rodin coil? (though he's not a scientist of any degree)
Polywell
Robert bussards interstellar funel
 
MisterX, I know about electromagnetic coils.

If a medium-sized electromagnetic coil were put inside a larger electromagnetic coil, and if a smaller electromagnetic coil were put inside the medium sized coil, then would the three magnetic fields be additive?

If so, what would be the eventual limit?

Somehow I doubt that they're additive. But, I'm not an electrical engineer, so I'm asking people much smarter than I on this subject. (that would be you)

Thanks
 
What does amperes law say, The B field is proportional to the current enclosed, so if I wrap my solenoid with 2 wraps I will double the amount of enclosed current in my Amperian loop.
 
jerich1000 said:
MisterX, I know about electromagnetic coils.

If a medium-sized electromagnetic coil were put inside a larger electromagnetic coil, and if a smaller electromagnetic coil were put inside the medium sized coil, then would the three magnetic fields be additive?

If so, what would be the eventual limit?

Somehow I doubt that they're additive. But, I'm not an electrical engineer, so I'm asking people much smarter than I on this subject. (that would be you)

Thanks

Yes they add. Just as you are imagining. No hidden secrets!
In fact electromagnetic coils prodcue magnetic filed by additive action of each single turns (which behave as single turn coils by themselves)

Hum, the ultimate limit? Maybe this (check the fun fact) http://www.bigshotcamera.org/sections/fun/buildables/electromagnetism/electromagnet.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Click on the audio/visual slide show at the bottom of the page for a 9-minute presentation on the world's strongest nested-coil electromagnet (45 Tesla).

http://www.magnet.fsu.edu/usershub/scientificdivisions/dcfield/hybrid/index.html
 

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