Real Life Applications of Inductor

Inductors, often referred to as coils or chokes, are a key component in many electronic devices and systems. Their primary function is to store energy in a magnetic field when electrical current is passed through them. This article will explore real life applications of inductors in detail.

What are Applications of Inductors in Real Life

An inductor is a passive electronic component that stores energy in the form of a magnetic field. In simple terms, an inductor consists of a wire loop or coil that is used to control electric spikes by temporarily storing energy and then releasing it back into the circuit through an electromagnetic field. Inductors have a broad range of applications. They are used in tuning circuits, sensors, energy storage devices, induction motors, transformers, filters, chokes, ferrite beads, and relays. They play a significant role in electrical transmissions based on their requirements.

Tuning Circuits

Inductors are used in tuning circuits to select the desired frequency. In a tuned circuit, a capacitor is connected along with the inductor, either in parallel or series. The frequency of the tuning circuit at which the capacitive reactance is equal to the inductive reactance (X_C = X_L) is called ‘Resonant Frequency’. Electronic devices such as radio tuning circuits and television use capacitors along with the inductor to modify the frequency and select within multiple channels of frequency.

Sensors

Inductive proximity sensors are very reliable in operation and are a contactless sensor. An inductive sensor is a non-contact type of sensor, helpful in the detection of metallic objects. It can sense ferrous as well as non-ferrous materials. The sensing range is up to 100 mm.

Energy Storage

Inductors can store energy for a small period of time because the energy which is being stored as a magnetic field will be gone when the power supply is removed. The energy stored in an inductor is due to the magnetic field created by the current flowing through it. As the current through the inductor changes, the magnetic field also changes, and energy is either stored or released.

Induction Motors

In induction motors, the shaft in the motor will rotate due to the presence of the magnetic field produced due to alternating current. An induction motor works by using electromagnets to create a rotating magnetic field. This field then induces an electric current in the rotor, which creates its own magnetic field. The interaction between the two fields causes the rotor to turn, effectively rotating around the motor.

Transformers

A combination of multiple inductors with a shared magnetic field can be designed into a transformer. Transformers do not rely on the inductive properties of an electric circuit to transfer energy. Instead, they use magnetic induction, making them more efficient and allowing them to transfer higher voltages with less loss.

Filters

Inductors when combined with capacitors will be used as filters. LC filters refer to circuits consisting of a combination of inductors (L) and capacitors © to cut or pass specific frequency bands of an electric signal. Capacitors block DC currents but pass AC more easily at higher frequencies. Conversely, inductors pass DC currents as they are, but pass AC less easily at higher frequencies.

Chokes

Inductors are used as chokes. A choke is an inductor used to block higher-frequency alternating currents (AC) while passing direct current (DC) and lower-frequency ACs in a circuit.

FAQs on Real Life Applications of Inductor

What is an inductor and how does it work?

An inductor, often referred to as a coil or choke, is a passive electronic component that stores energy in a magnetic field when electrical current is passed through it.

How are inductors identified?

Inductors are identified by their unique property of inductance, which is the ratio of voltage to the rate of change of current.

What are the characteristics of an inductor?

An inductor is described by its distinctive nature of inductance, which is defined as the ratio of the voltage to the rate of change of current.

What is a standard inductor?

A standard inductor normally consists of an insulated wire that has been wrapped into a coil situated around a core.

What is the importance of inductors in electrical circuits?

Inductors are important in electrical circuits as they avoid sudden changes in the current used. It can increase or decrease the current spikes temporarily.

What are the different types of inductors?

Depending on the application there are many types of inductors, they come in various form factors, there are high-frequency inductors, low-frequency power line inductors, and some specially designed inductors for decoupling and filter applications.

What are the applications of inductors in electrical transmission?

Based on the requirement, inductors have many applications in electrical transmission. Inductors are used in tuning circuits which are used to select the desired frequency.