Magnetic resistance in generator, constant?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of magnetic resistance in generators, particularly focusing on whether the resistance of the turning shaft remains constant when the output induction circuit is either closed or open. Participants explore the implications of current flow on magnetic resistance and energy transformation in the context of generator operation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if the resistance of the turning shaft is the same when the output induction circuit is closed versus when it is open, pondering the significance of any potential differences.
  • Another participant suggests that magnetic resistance does differ based on the load on the generator, indicating that increased current leads to a larger magnetic field, which opposes the shaft's movement.
  • A participant expresses confusion about the relationship between current flow and energy transformation, considering how energy is accounted for when current does not flow.
  • One participant concludes that the induced current creates a magnetic field that opposes the fixed field, implying that more energy is required to rotate the shaft when current flows.
  • Another participant affirms the idea that if resistance increases with current flow, it aligns with the principle of conservation of energy.
  • A later post introduces a related concept about an invention aimed at energy recovery, suggesting that the design of a turbine could optimize energy displacement while contributing to rotation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether magnetic resistance remains constant or changes with current flow. Some agree that increased current leads to greater resistance, while others are still exploring the implications of these ideas, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully clarified the definitions of terms such as "magnetic resistance" and "output induction circuit," which may affect the understanding of the discussion. Additionally, the relationship between energy transformation and resistance has not been conclusively established.

harrycallahan
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Is the resistance of the turning shaft equal in both cases where the output induction circuit is closed and broken. Or to put it another way, if the electrons are permitted to flow via induction does it make any difference to the magnetic resistance?

I'm hoping and expect the answer is that it doesn't matter i.e. constant magnetic resistance.

Though if it is different, how significant is it?

I'm getting confused thinking about the energy equation.

If current does flow then kinetic energy was transformed into electrical energy.

If current doesn't flow then where is the energy that was otherwise induced? Maybe the resistance has to change to account for that? Say if I'm hand cranking the generator then I will work harder to turn it at the same speed and more of my muscular energy will be used = to the induced current when the circuit is closed. Just musing, doubt that is right.
 
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I am not exactly sure what you mean by "output induction circuit is closed and open". I think you just mean if the output is connected to a load and because the output is the coils of the generator which are essentially inductors, that's what you meant by "output induction circuit".


In that case then to answer your question, yes the magnetic resistance you could say does differ.

The reason is simple, the more you load the generator, the higher the current in the windings (output), obviously greater current means bigger magnetic field and because the induced voltage from the turning of the shaft is induced in such a way as to create a current that will oppose that movement of the shaft. When the output is unloaded, then no current flows and thus no opposition created by the windings, you will still have a voltage induced but no current.
 
nemesiswes said:
I am not exactly sure what you mean by "output induction circuit is closed and open". I think you just mean if the output is connected to a load and because the output is the coils of the generator which are essentially inductors, that's what you meant by "output induction circuit".

I changed my terminology, but yes connected or not. Current flowing and not flowing.

As you can see I'm far from an expert on this topic, hence the question.

nemesiswes said:
...greater current means bigger magnetic field and because the induced voltage from the turning of the shaft is induced in such a way as to create a current that will oppose that movement of the shaft.

Is this saying the resistance at the shaft increases when current flows?

Edit: I believe the answer is yes, and that makes sense now. The induced current creates a field which opposes the fixed field hence more energy is consumed rotating the shaft when current is allowed to flow. (if rotated at same speed)
 
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yes that is correct. It's all conservation of energy, lol. If it did create that Resistance to the turning of the shaft then you could create huge amounts of energy for very little effort.
 
Yes conservation of energy ;-)

The question pertains to this invention here,

'Chinese Farmer Fights Smog With Fan Power'
newsDOTskyDOTcom/home/world-news/article/16228695

(I need 10 posts to link)I still think it's feasible as an energy recovery device, if a turbine can act as an efficient (aerodynamic) air displacer and rotate as well.

Wonder what others think?

One problem. If an air particle contributes to the turbine rotation then it has less energy transferred to it, so it won't (in most cases) displace out of the vehicle's way as well as the alternative. Perhaps an optimal design does both and recovers energy.
 

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