A magnetostrictive system in industrial automation converts vibrations into electrical power using a phenomenon known as the magnetostrictive effect. Magnetostriction is the property of certain materials to change their shape when exposed to a magnetic field. This effect allows for the conversion of mechanical vibrations or strain into electrical energy.
Here's a general explanation of how a magnetostrictive system works to convert vibrations into electrical power:
Magnetostrictive Material: The system consists of a magnetostrictive material, which is a special type of alloy with magnetostrictive properties. The most commonly used material for this purpose is Terfenol-D, an alloy of terbium, dysprosium, and iron.
Vibrations or Mechanical Strain: The magnetostrictive material is subjected to mechanical vibrations or strain. This can be achieved through various means, such as mounting the material to a vibrating structure or applying an external mechanical force.
Magnetic Field: A magnetic field is applied to the magnetostrictive material. This can be done using a permanent magnet or an electromagnet placed in close proximity to the magnetostrictive material.
Magnetostrictive Effect: When the magnetostrictive material experiences the mechanical vibrations or strain, it undergoes changes in its shape due to the magnetostrictive effect. In other words, the material physically expands or contracts in response to the mechanical deformation.
Induction of Electrical Current: The changes in shape of the magnetostrictive material cause fluctuations in the magnetic field around it. As the magnetic field changes, it induces an electrical current in nearby conductive coils (typically wrapped around the magnetostrictive material).
Harvesting Electrical Power: The induced electrical current can be captured and used to power various devices or charge batteries in industrial automation applications.
Magnetostrictive systems are particularly useful in scenarios where mechanical vibrations or strain are naturally present, such as in machinery, structures, or pipelines. By converting these vibrations into electrical power, they offer a way to harness otherwise wasted energy and provide a self-sustaining power source for certain automation components or sensors, reducing the need for external power supplies and increasing overall energy efficiency in industrial processes.