In electromagnetism, a magnetic circuit is analogous to an electrical circuit, but it deals with the flow of magnetic flux rather than electric current. The relationship between magnetic flux density (B) and magnetic field strength (H) in a magnetic circuit is described by the magnetization curve, also known as the B-H curve or the hysteresis loop.
The magnetization curve illustrates how the magnetic flux density (B) within a material changes in response to changes in the magnetic field strength (H) applied to it. This relationship is critical in understanding the behavior of materials in magnetic circuits and in designing electromagnets, transformers, and other magnetic devices.
To determine the magnetization curve, you typically follow these steps:
Select a Sample Material: Choose the material for which you want to determine the magnetization curve. Different materials have different magnetic properties, so it's important to use the correct material.
Prepare the Material: Ensure that the material is in a suitable shape and size for testing. It's often in the form of a rod or a core.
Setup the Apparatus: You'll need a solenoid (a coil of wire) to generate a magnetic field. The solenoid is connected to a variable current source. The material to be tested is placed inside the solenoid.
Measure Magnetic Field Strength (H): Gradually increase the current flowing through the solenoid. Measure the current (I) and the number of turns (N) in the solenoid coil. Magnetic field strength (H) is given by the formula: H = (N * I) / length of the solenoid.
Measure Magnetic Flux Density (B): Use a gaussmeter or other magnetic field measuring devices to measure the magnetic flux density (B) inside the material as the current varies. Note that the magnetic flux density may also be referred to as the magnetic induction.
Plot the Magnetization Curve: Plot the measured magnetic flux density (B) on the y-axis against the magnetic field strength (H) on the x-axis. Repeat this process for various current levels, which correspond to different points on the curve.
Hysteresis Loop: If you are interested in the behavior of the material when the magnetic field is cyclically varied, you can observe the hysteresis loop. This loop shows how the material's magnetic flux density responds as the magnetic field strength is increased and then decreased, forming a closed loop. The hysteresis loop provides insights into the material's magnetic properties, such as coercivity and remanence.
Analyzing the Curve: The shape of the magnetization curve and hysteresis loop provides information about the material's magnetic properties, such as its saturation point, coercivity, and residual magnetization.
The resulting magnetization curve helps engineers and researchers understand how different materials respond to magnetic fields, which is crucial for designing efficient and reliable electromagnetic devices. Keep in mind that the process described here is a simplified overview, and actual experiments might involve more detailed procedures and equipment.