Eddy current - definition
Eddy current - definition
Eddy current is a type of induced electric current that arises in conductive materials due to an alternating magnetic field crossing the volume of a given conductor. According to Faraday's law of induction, the change in magnetic flux over time produces electromotive forces, which in a closed circuit or conductor structure lead to a circulating flow of electrical charges. These currents take the form of rotating streams - hence their name - and are always directed to counteract the change in the field that caused them (Lenz's law).
The phenomenon of eddy currents occurs inside massive, uninsulated conductors such as transformer cores, motors, metal enclosures or Solenoids components. Their presence results in local energy losses in the form of heat, which can lead to overheating of components, reduced efficiency and interference with electromagnetic equipment. To minimise these unwanted effects, techniques are used to reduce their formation, such as laminating cores, using powdered magnetic materials or designing conductor geometries to reduce areas of confined flow.
Although they are most often treated as a source of loss, eddy currents can also be useful. Their presence is used in non-contact braking technology (e.g. in electromagnetic brakes), induction heating, detection of material defects and in imaging and testing methods for conductors - such as impedance tomography or nondestructive current inspection. Their intensity depends on the frequency of the field, the electrical conductivity of the material and its geometric size.
Transfer Multisort Elektronik (TME) is one of the world’s largest global distributors of electronic components, electrotechnical parts, workshop equipment, and industrial automation. The catalog includes over 1,500,000 products from 1,300 leading manufacturers. TME’s modern logistics centers in Łódź and Rzgów (Poland), with a combined area of over 40,000 m², ship nearly 6,000 packages daily to customers in more than 150 countries.
TME also invests in the development of knowledge and skills of young engineers and electronics enthusiasts through the TME Education project, and supports the tech community by organizing the TechMasterEvent series, promoting innovation and experience exchange.
