Length of magnetic path?

Oct 27, 2006 1 Replies

I find the formula for the Reluctance of an air core solenoid as;



Reluctance = (length / cross-section) x (1/mu)



In the description length is just the length of the solenoid. Why wouldn't the length be equal to



2 x the length plus some distance around both ends? This would seem to be the distance the lines of flux travel.

Mike


This assumes an infinitely long coil where the length is normalized unity length or some other convienient number that is a small fraction of the total. Per meter or per cm is usual. Indeed, in a short coil with defined ends, the path is much more complicated and there are emperical formulas to deal with it.

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required