Current Technology on Winding Linear Generators Essay -- Physics Elect

Current Technology on Winding Linear Generators Abstract This paper is an overview of the materials and winding technology that is currently used on today’s linear generators. It contains information on the types of wire used as well as the epoxy used to hold the coil windings in place. Furthermore, it contains information on the possible orientations that the coils can have with respect to the permanent magnets. Introduction Linear generators/motors have been around since the early 1900’s with one of the first written references being in regard to Birkeland’s Cannon, then described as a tubular motor but is more accurately described as a reluctance motor. 1 Today linear generators/motors have more widespread, not to mention less destructive, uses such as magnetically levitated trains, and renewable power generation. The Wire Magnet wire is the preferred type of wire used for the windings of linear generators and most other types of generators. This wire is made out of copper wire and insulated with a thin layer of enamel. The thickness of the insulation is much smaller than that of standard electrical wire. The reason for this is to allow for the wires to be packed in closer together while at the same time restricting the current from jumping between wires. Magnet wire comes in various sizes, like most wires, and also has an associated gauge that allows the engineer to determine its ampacity characteristics. Taihan Electric wire company gave the following definition of magnet wire on its website: â€Å"Magnet wire is wound in a form of coil around the core inside the electrical appliances and plays a role of converting mechanical energy into electric energy and vice versa. Magnet wire is widely used in alm... ... Conclusion The research involved in this paper has greatly enhanced our groups understanding of the technology involved in winding linear generators and will be a useful guide during the construction of our prototype. Works Cited 1. E.R. Laithwaite, Propulsion Without Wheels. Hart Publishing Company, Inc, 1968 2. Taihan, November 24, 2003, http://www.taihan.com/taihan_eng/prod/wire/magn_MAGN_m.asp?curMenu=wire 3. Rare Earth Magnets, November 24, 2003, http://www.rare-earth- magnets.com/magnet_university/magnets_electromagnetism.htm 4. Altana Electrical Insulation, November 24, 2003, http://www.epoxylite.com/motors.htm 5. Van Blarigan, Peter. â€Å"Advanced Internal Combustion Electrical Generator.† Sandia National Laboratories. Livermore, CA. 2001 6. Kunel, Heinrich. German Patent: # DE3024814, 01-28-1982