Increase the frequency of AC current

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods to increase or decrease the frequency of AC current linearly, with a focus on applications such as controlling the switching speed of an electromagnet. Participants explore various technical approaches and circuit designs relevant to this topic.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest using frequency multiplier circuits as a conventional technology for frequency adjustment.
  • Others propose that a frequency synthesizer could be a suitable solution, depending on the application.
  • One participant emphasizes the need for more information about the electromagnet's specifications and the desired switching speed to provide tailored suggestions.
  • Another participant mentions the possibility of using a circuit that reverses the polarity of a DC supply to achieve the desired frequency control.
  • A suggestion is made to build a variable frequency signal generator that outputs the appropriate waveform for the application, with various methods including microprocessor-controlled PWM and analog oscillators being mentioned.
  • One participant recommends using a cyclo converter or purchasing an AC source from specific manufacturers for those with less experience in power electronics.
  • Several methods are proposed, including using a variable-speed motor driving an AC generator, analog sine oscillators, and digital sine generators to create the necessary frequency adjustments.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of ideas and methods for varying AC frequency, but there is no consensus on a single approach. The discussion remains open-ended with multiple competing views and suggestions.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of specific application requirements and system specifications, which remain unclear. The discussion highlights the need for further details to refine the proposed solutions.

mostwantedmani
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How to increase or decrease the frequency of AC current linearly? Suggest me some ideas
 
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mostwantedmani said:
How to increase or decrease the frequency of AC current linearly? Suggest me some ideas. I want to vary the frequency like 1Hz 2Hz 3...60Hz
 
Frequency multiplier circuits are conventional technology.
 
I want to switch the poles of an electromagnet using a AC power supply... In Order to control the switching speed I would like to control the frequency of the AC current.
 
still not too much info forthcoming from you

Tell us about the electromagnet ...
its voltage and current rating ?.
Is it a commercial or home made electromagnet ?
what sort of AC power supply are you using?
why do you want to vary the switching speed ?
what do you think it will achieve ... ie ... what are your goals ?

Dave
 
mostwantedmani said:
I want to switch the poles of an electromagnet using a AC power supply... In Order to control the switching speed I would like to control the frequency of the AC current.
Would a circuit that continuously reverses the polarity of a DC supply do what you want? It would have a control that varies the rate at which polarity reverses. How often do you want the polarity to reverse? Maximum rate, minimum rate?
 
Essentially you need to build a variable frequency signal generator that outputs the appropriate waveform for your application. That can drive an appropriate circuit to deal with the voltages and currents you require.

Depending on the frequency range and precision you desire there are many ways to do this, from microprocessor controlled PWM to digitally controlled numerical methods, to counter based DAC's to analog oscillators or multivibrators.

Look at application circuits for the 555 timer. (google 555 variable multivibratorand look at images)

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We need more system requirements in order to pin down what is best for your level of expertise.
 
You need a cyclo converter or an AC source from Ametek or Chroma. Easier to buy it than to build it yourself if you have little experience in power electronics.
 
  • #10
mostwantedmani said:
How to increase or decrease the frequency of AC current linearly? Suggest me some ideas

Start with rectifying the source AC. And use it as the power source.

A. Power a variable-speed motor driving an AC generator
B. Use analog sine oscillator with a variable frequency to drive a power amplifier
C. Use a variable frequency digital sine generator to create a sine wave to drive a power amplifier
D. Use a variable frequency digital generator to drive a set of switching elements to approximate a sine wave

I can go on like this for a long time. As noted above, I need more information to narrow the idea stream down
 

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