Theory:
An inductor (also choke, coil or reactor) is a passive two-terminal electrical component that stores energy in its magnetic field. For comparison, capacitor stores energy in an electric field and a resistor does not store energy but rather dissipates energy as heat. An inductor is usually made from a coil of conducting material, like copper wire, that is then wrapped around a core made from either air or a magnetic metal.
While a capacitor does not like changes in voltage, an inductor does not like changes in current.
Inductor is a device which can store energy in the form of magnetic field. Inductor opposes a sudden change in the flow of current. The function of an inductor is to provide opposition to a changing or varying current
Whenever a current change occurs within the coil windings, a voltage is induced across the ends of the coil. The polarity of the induced voltage is such that it opposes the current change occurring withinn the inductor. In more general terms, inductors are the opposite of capacitor, in that they are able to pass a dc current and block an ac current. The basic unit of inductance is the Henry (H).
Mutual inductance: Inductor store energy in form of magnetic field. This field of an inductor extends outside of inductor & can be affected another inductor close by.
Which utilizes mutual inductance to alter voltage or current output is called transformer. Inductor that supplies current called as primary coil & inductor that picks up magnetic field is called secondary winding.
Types: 1. Fixed inductors:
- Air core inductor: It consist no. of turns of wire on ordinary cardboard former. Since there is air inside former. These are used in RF frequencies in turning coils.
- Iron core inductor: The coil wounded over solid or laminated iron core.
