Where Can I Find an Affordable Vibrating Sample Magnetometer Head?

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    Magnetometer Vibrating
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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on acquiring an affordable vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) head for laboratory use. Participants suggest three main approaches: purchasing a secondhand VSM head, adapting a VSM head to an existing magnet, or constructing a custom head. José Mariano from the University of Algarve highlights the need for a reliable power supply, recommending welding power supplies with current control for conventional electromagnets, while emphasizing the importance of water cooling to prevent overheating. Concerns about the mechanical stability of a homemade head are also raised, indicating that poor construction could compromise performance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vibrating sample magnetometers (VSM)
  • Familiarity with electromagnet power supplies
  • Knowledge of water cooling systems for high-power applications
  • Basic mechanical engineering principles for constructing devices
NEXT STEPS
  • Research options for purchasing secondhand vibrating sample magnetometer heads
  • Explore methods for adapting existing magnets for VSM applications
  • Investigate designs for DIY vibrating sample magnetometer heads
  • Learn about power supply configurations for electromagnets, focusing on current control
USEFUL FOR

Researchers, laboratory technicians, and physics students seeking cost-effective solutions for vibrating sample magnetometer setups or those interested in DIY laboratory equipment construction.

jmariano
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Dear all,

We are in need of a vibrating sample magnetometer for our lab. but don´t have the money to buy a new one.

We are considering
- buy a secondhand one (still expensive)
- buy the VSM head and adapt to a existing magnet. If you now where to find one, I would be happy to hear from you.
- make our own head. If someone has any good suggestions on how to make a good quality vibrator, besides the obvious loudspeaker, I would appreciate if you share your thoughts.

Nay other suggestions are very much welcome.

Tanks
José Mariano
Physics Dep.
University of Algarve
Portugal
 
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Buying the head and adapting a magnet sounds like a good idea to me. The naked magnet should not be too expensive, but you also need a power supply.

I have seen welding power supplies fitted with some means of current control as cheap power supplies for conventional electromagnets.

Because of the power involved the magnet itself has to be water cooled. If you try this, make sure that the power supply is interlocked to the cooling water flow rate. Otherwise you risk boiling the remaining water and causing serious damage (and potential injury).

BTW, that particular magnet was not used for a VSM, so I cannot tell you if the stability is sufficient for such an application.
 
Actually, we do have the magnet and the power supply, from an old Bruker EPR. Our problem is with the head. I don´t have any idea were we could by one. Probably we have to make one yourself, but I'm not keen on the idea. Bad mechanics will compromise the performance of the device.
 

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