Silver instead of copper wire in electric generators?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the potential differences between using silver and copper wire in electric generators, focusing on aspects such as resistance, voltage, and current. Participants explore historical contexts and technical implications of material choice in electrical applications.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Historical

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the impact of using silver instead of copper wire in electric generators, specifically regarding voltage, current, and resistance.
  • Another participant suggests that using silver reduces resistance losses but may increase transformer losses.
  • A historical reference is made to the use of silver in U.S. wartime projects during World War II, where silver was used in some applications due to copper shortages.
  • One participant provides resistivity values, indicating that the resistivity of silver is slightly lower than that of copper, suggesting minimal difference in performance.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the significance of using silver versus copper, with some suggesting minimal difference while others highlight potential advantages and disadvantages. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the overall impact on electric generators.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific resistivity values and historical usage, but the implications of these factors on performance remain unclear and are not fully explored.

dm164
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I'm wondering if it make much difference if they used silver instead of copper wire in electric generators? Also, how does switching from silver to copper wire affect the voltage and current, or does it just create some resistance?
 
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It reduces resistance losses , but probably increases (stolen) transformer losses
 
I think that during World War II, silver was substituted for copper in some U. S. wartime projects because brass was being used for shell casings. I am told also that solid silver wire was being used in the RF coils in military transmitters. See for example

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb203/is_3_39/ai_n49408104/

Bob S
 


thanks
 


dm164 said:
make much difference if they used silver instead of copper wire in electric generators?

Not much. The resistivity of silver is 1.6E-8 ohm-m, whereas that of copper is 1.7E-8
 

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