Inductors: The Basics and their Circuit Schematic Symbols
Inductors are electromagnetic devices that store energy in their magnetic fields. They are commonly used in electronics, especially in power supplies, filter circuits, and signal processing circuits. In this blog, we'll delve into the basics of inductors, including their physical characteristics, types, uses, and most importantly, their circuit schematic symbols.
Physical characteristics of inductors
An inductor comprises a coil of wire (usually copper) wound around a core made of a ferromagnetic material, such as iron or ferrite. The wire, which can be insulated or uninsulated, has a certain number of turns that determine the inductance of the coil. The larger the number of turns, the higher the inductance, which is measured in henries (H).
As the electrical current flows through the wire, it generates a magnetic field around the coil. When the current changes, the magnetic field also changes, and this results in a self-induced voltage that opposes the change in current. This phenomenon is known as inductance, and it causes the inductor to resist any changes in the electrical current.
Types of inductors
There are several types of inductors that vary in their physical construction and intended use. Some of the common types include:
1. Air-core inductors: These inductors have a coil wound around a non-magnetic core, such as a plastic or ceramic rod. They are used in low-frequency applications, such as radio frequency (RF) circuits and audio filters.
2. Ferrite-core inductors: These inductors have a coil wound around a ferromagnetic core made of ferrite. They are used in high-frequency applications and power supplies, where high inductance and low electromagnetic interference (EMI) are required.
3. Iron-core inductors: These inductors have a coil wound around an iron-core, which provides high inductance and low resistance. They are used in high-power applications, such as transformers and chokes.
Uses of inductors
Inductors have various uses in electronics, depending on their type and circuit application. Some of the common applications include:
1. Filtering: Inductors are used in filter circuits to remove unwanted frequencies and noise from the signal. They complement the action of capacitors, which remove high-frequency noise.
2. Energy storage: Inductors store energy in their magnetic fields and release it when the current changes. They are used in energy storage devices, such as flyback transformers and power supplies.
3. Protection: Inductors are used for protection against voltage spikes and surges. They are used in circuits that need to handle large amounts of current, such as motor drivers and power amplifiers.
Circuit Schematic Symbols of Inductors
Like most electronic devices, inductors have their own circuit schematic symbols. These symbols are used to represent the physical components in circuit diagrams and make it easier to identify and analyze the circuit. Here are some common circuit schematic symbols for inductors:
1. Basic inductor: This symbol represents a basic inductor that has a coil of wire wound around a core.
2. Air-core inductor: This symbol represents an air-core inductor that has a coil wound around a non-magnetic core.
3. Ferrite-core inductor: This symbol represents a ferrite-core inductor that has a coil wound around a ferromagnetic core made of ferrite.
4. Iron-core inductor: This symbol represents an iron-core inductor that has a coil wound around an iron-core.
Conclusion
Inductors are essential components in electronics that store energy in their magnetic fields. They have various uses in different circuit applications and come in different types, such as air-core, ferrite-core, and iron-core. Understanding the physical characteristics, types, and uses of inductors is vital for anyone who wants to design, analyze or troubleshoot electronic circuits. And we, Golden Eagle Coil & Plastic Co.Ltd, are a manufacturer and supplier who specialize in customize voice coils, 1 to 3mm diameter miniature voice coils, inductor coils, self-bonding coils, and wet-winding air-core coils, etc. Our products have high quality and reasonable price, and we are looking forward to cooperating with you.