Is this solenoid / permanent magnet configuration possible?

In summary, the inquiry explores the feasibility of a specific arrangement combining a solenoid and a permanent magnet. It examines the principles of electromagnetism to determine if such a configuration can effectively operate, considering factors like magnetic field interactions and energy efficiency. The analysis suggests that while theoretically plausible, practical implementation may face challenges related to alignment and strength of the magnetic fields involved.
  • #1
JayAshby
9
4
TL;DR Summary
Hi, I was wondering if it would work to have permanent magnets placed around the middle of a solenoid, which can act as a buffer between the north and south poles of the solenoid. I have drawn what I think the field will look like in blue. Would this have any impact on the strength of the solenoid's magnetic field? Thanks.
Screenshot 2024-01-02 134116.png
 
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  • #2
How is this different from your previous thread start?

JayAshby said:
TL;DR Summary: Hi, I've been working on a solenoid design and was wondering if I have this configuration, how would the strength of the solenoid (specifically the south pole) be affected by the permanent magnet? Would it potentially gain strength, or would it result in a loss? Assume minimal distance between magnet and solenoid.

View attachment 337870
 
  • #3
You certainly could place permanent magnets in that arrangement. But I don’t know what “act as a buffer between the north and south poles of the solenoid” would even mean.

If you have two sources, each with their own field, then the total field from both sources together is the sum of the fields from each source individually.
 
  • #4
berkeman said:
How is this different from your previous thread start?
Dale said:
You certainly could place permanent magnets in that arrangement. But I don’t know what “act as a buffer between the north and south poles of the solenoid” would even mean.

If you have two sources, each with their own field, then the total field from both sources together is the sum of the fields from each source individually.
Hi Dale, thanks for the reply. By buffer I mean that the magnet field of the solenoid would be joined with the permanent magnets. Essentially, the magnetic field lines leaving the north end of the solenoid would then join the south end of the magnets instead of the south end of the solenoid. And the magnetic field lines leaving the north ends of the magnets would join with the south end of the solenoid. If this were the case, I'm unsure how it would affect the strength of the north and south poles of the solenoid.
 
  • #5
To get the total field you would add the fields together. That would make the field lines more complicated. I guess some lines would go from the solenoid to the permanent magnets, but not all of them. The field would be at least quadrupole instead of dipole.
 
  • #6
Interesting, thank you for your insight Dale.
 

FAQ: Is this solenoid / permanent magnet configuration possible?

Can a solenoid generate a strong enough magnetic field to interact effectively with a permanent magnet?

Yes, a solenoid can generate a strong magnetic field if it has enough turns of wire and sufficient current passing through it. The strength of the magnetic field is also influenced by the core material inside the solenoid. Using a ferromagnetic core, like iron, can significantly enhance the magnetic field strength, making it more effective for interaction with a permanent magnet.

Is it possible to create a stable levitation system using a solenoid and a permanent magnet?

Creating a stable levitation system using a solenoid and a permanent magnet is challenging due to the inherent instability of magnetic levitation. However, it is possible with active stabilization techniques, such as feedback control systems that adjust the current in the solenoid to maintain the magnet's position. Passive levitation is typically achieved using diamagnetic materials or superconductors.

Can a solenoid be used to move a permanent magnet linearly over a distance?

Yes, a solenoid can be used to move a permanent magnet linearly. This principle is utilized in linear actuators, where the solenoid generates a magnetic field that interacts with the magnet, causing it to move. The movement can be controlled by adjusting the current and the magnetic field direction within the solenoid.

How does the orientation of a permanent magnet affect its interaction with a solenoid?

The orientation of a permanent magnet significantly affects its interaction with a solenoid. The magnetic poles of the permanent magnet must align appropriately with the magnetic field generated by the solenoid for effective interaction. Typically, the north pole of the magnet should face the south pole of the solenoid's field, and vice versa, to achieve attraction or repulsion forces.

Is it possible to use a solenoid to generate rotational motion in a permanent magnet?

Yes, it is possible to use a solenoid to generate rotational motion in a permanent magnet. This can be achieved by arranging multiple solenoids in a circular pattern and sequentially energizing them to create a rotating magnetic field. This rotating field interacts with the permanent magnet, causing it to rotate. This principle is used in electric motors.

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