Power loss due to ionisation of air from magnetic fields

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the power loss associated with ionization of air due to magnetic fields generated by current-carrying wires. It is established that while a magnetic field does not typically cause power loss unless there is a changing flux, strong magnetic fields can ionize air, leading to energy losses. This phenomenon, known as corona, is particularly relevant in high voltage systems, where it poses significant challenges that require careful mechanical design to mitigate.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic theory, specifically the relationship between current, magnetic fields, and induced electromotive force (emf).
  • Knowledge of ionization processes, particularly in the context of high voltage systems.
  • Familiarity with the concept of corona discharge and its implications in electrical engineering.
  • Basic principles of power loss in electrical circuits, including resistance and energy dissipation.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of electromagnetic induction and its effects on nearby conductors.
  • Study the mechanisms of corona discharge in high voltage systems and its impact on efficiency.
  • Explore methods to design electrical systems that minimize ionization and corona effects.
  • Investigate the role of electric fields in ionization compared to magnetic fields in various applications.
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineers, power system designers, and professionals working with high voltage applications who need to understand the implications of magnetic fields and ionization on power loss and system efficiency.

CraigH
Messages
221
Reaction score
1
Hi,
A current carrying wire creates a magnetic field around it, as shown here: http://courses.ae.utexas.edu/ase463q/design_pages/fall02/wavelet/3_sour8.gif

As far as I am aware this usually doesn’t cause a power loss. Even if there is a flux on a nearby conductor there will be no power loss along the wire unless that flux is changing, in which case a emf will be induced on that conductor, meaning there has to be a power loss on the first wire. Correct?

However, if a wire has a current that causes a magnetic field so strong it ionises the air around it, surely this will cause a power loss? as work has been done ionising the atoms.

Also, if a different magnet is put into the magnetic field caused by the wire, it will feel a force on it, and accelerate in the direction of the force, so work is being done here as well.

What I'm basically trying to ask is that if there is a current carrying wire with zero resistance, will it still have loss's due to the fact that it creates a magnetic field?

Thanks
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Engineering news on Phys.org
It is the Electric Filed (high voltage) that typically ionizes the air, and this does yield some looses in high voltage systems. I have not heard of a magnetic field causing ionization.

In high voltage systems this un-wanted ionization is called corona - and leads to a lot of problems, so the mechanical design of the systems tries to minimize the development of the corona.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
5K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K