Problem with air core transformer

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenges of transferring a radio signal between two inductors configured as a primary and secondary. The focus is on the coupling efficiency and the design considerations of air core transformers, particularly with toroidal inductors.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes attempting to transfer a radio signal from a primary inductor to a secondary inductor using toroidal inductors with iron cores.
  • Another participant clarifies the setup, confirming the intention to couple RF signals between two separate toroidal inductors.
  • A later reply suggests that the coupling between two separate toroids is minimal due to the nature of toroidal inductors, which retain most of their magnetic flux within themselves.
  • This reply also emphasizes the necessity of placing both windings on the same toroid to effectively create a transformer and lists several factors that could affect performance, including impedance, core material characteristics, core saturation, inter-winding capacitance, and wire resistance.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the effectiveness of the current setup, with differing views on the coupling efficiency of separate toroidal inductors versus a single toroidal transformer configuration.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the potential oversight of various design factors that could impact the performance of the inductors, as well as the specific characteristics of the radio signal being used.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in RF signal transmission, transformer design, or those working with inductors in experimental setups may find this discussion relevant.

Idea04
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I have two inductors, one as a primary and the other as the secondary. I am trying to transfer the radio signal from the primary inductor to the secondary inductor. But I am getting no signal on the secondary inductor. The radio signal is a voltage signal with very little current. The inductors are toroidal with iron cores. Placed in series to one another. Can someone tell me where I'm going wrong.
 
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If I understand this correctly, you have two separate toroidal inductors and want to couple RF from one to the other?
 
yes, is that possible.
 
Two toroids placed near each other will have very little coupling. The lion's share of magnetic flux remains within a toroid. That's its purpose. You must place both windings on the same toroid to make a transformer. there are several other things to consider, as well: impedance, core material characterisitcs (mainly frequency response), core saturation, inter-winding capacitance, wire resistance, to name a few. Neglecting to understand any of those can make your transformer unusable.
 
Thank you for the help. I really appreciate it.
 

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