Magnetic plate eddy current braking effect on a copper disc

In summary, the conversation discusses the reciprocal braking effect between neodymium magnets and copper plates or tubes due to eddy currents. The question is raised whether a copper disc sliding down an inclined magnetic plate or tube would experience the same effect and how small of a copper particle can be slowed by eddy current braking. It is mentioned that the braking force decreases with a smaller diameter and distance between the metals.
  • #1
Gyro de Pyro
1
1
Hi, I've seen many videos of neodymium magnets sliding slowly down an inclined copper plate, or slowly down a copper tube - due to eddy current braking,but never the other way around. My question is; will a copper disc sliding down an inclined magnetic plate, or down a magnetic tube act in the same way? Leading to; how small a particle of copper can be slowed by eddy current braking in sliding down the magnetic plate? Thanks.
 
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  • #2
:welcome:

The braking effect should be reciprocal. All motion is relative in any case.

But eddy currents require some depth to be significant. A thin foil would not be an effective eddy current brake. So the same applies to particles; the braking force reduces when the diameter is small. The braking effect also reduces with the distance between the metals, so a disk placed flat will be more powerful than the same mass shaped as a sphere.

If you want more detail than that, you must be more specific in your question.
 

1. How does magnetic plate eddy current braking work?

Magnetic plate eddy current braking is a type of electromagnetic braking system that uses a strong magnetic field to generate eddy currents in a nearby conducting material, such as a copper disc. These eddy currents create their own magnetic field that opposes the motion of the disc, causing it to slow down and eventually stop.

2. What is the purpose of using a copper disc in the braking system?

The copper disc is used because it is a good conductor of electricity and is easily affected by magnetic fields. As the disc moves through the magnetic field created by the magnetic plate, eddy currents are induced in the disc, creating a braking effect.

3. How does the strength of the magnetic field affect the braking force?

The strength of the magnetic field directly affects the braking force. A stronger magnetic field will induce stronger eddy currents in the copper disc, resulting in a greater braking force and quicker deceleration of the disc.

4. What are the advantages of using magnetic plate eddy current braking?

Magnetic plate eddy current braking has several advantages over traditional braking systems. It does not require physical contact between the braking components, reducing wear and tear. It also provides smooth and consistent braking, and can be easily controlled and adjusted.

5. Are there any drawbacks to using magnetic plate eddy current braking?

One potential drawback of using magnetic plate eddy current braking is that it can generate heat in the conducting material, which may lead to overheating and damage if not properly managed. Additionally, the strength of the braking force may vary depending on the speed and size of the conducting material being used.

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