How to find the strength of an electromagnet

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Pharrahnox
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    Electromagnet Strength
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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on measuring the strength of an electromagnet created using an iron railroad spike and insulated wire connected to a motorbike battery. The key measurement discussed is magnetic flux density, calculated using the formula T = N/Am, where N represents the number of turns in the coil, A is the cross-sectional area, and m is the length of the iron core. Participants emphasize the importance of measuring the current in Amperes and understanding the magnetic permeability of the iron core to accurately apply the formula. Additionally, the user inquires about comparing the strength of a horse-shoe shaped permanent magnet with their electromagnet.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetism principles
  • Familiarity with measuring electrical current using a multimeter
  • Knowledge of magnetic flux density and its calculation
  • Basic understanding of solenoid magnetic fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to calculate magnetic flux density using the formula T = N/Am
  • Learn about the magnetic permeability of different materials
  • Explore methods for measuring the strength of permanent magnets
  • Investigate solenoid design and its impact on magnetic field strength
USEFUL FOR

Electronics enthusiasts, physics students, hobbyists building electromagnets, and anyone interested in comparing electromagnet and permanent magnet strengths.

Pharrahnox
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I have created a simple electromagnet that is just an iron railroad spike with some thick insulated wire wrapped around it. This is connected to a dodgy, old motorbike battery (I'm thinking of being a decent battery...).

I have looked up how you measure the strength, but I'm not sure what is the one I'm looking for. Is it magnetic flux density?

If so, I found the formula for teslas: T = N/Am. How can I apply this to my magnet? I can find the Amperes with a multimeter, but I don't know how to find the Newtons... Also, with the metres part, is that the length of iron wrapped in the coil, or just the length of iron all together?
 
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Ok, thankyou, the link was very helpful.

I'm not sure if I should start a new thread for this or not, but I'm hoping there is an easy answer.
I also have a horse-shoe shaped permanent magnet, and I was wondering how I can figure out its strength, to compare with electromagnets that I will build.
 

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