ElectricPete - thanks for your input and the link to the other thread on the forum. After reading through the other thread, I've come to the conclusion that a diode & zener would be the best option, as I do need rapid current reduction.
As I've never specified diodes before, what are the major...
Thanks for the info.
Part of the reason I was hoping to stay away from a full blown magnet controller was due to the cost, and also the requirement. I'm only running 168 Watts (7Amps) @24Vdc. Most of the magnet controllers I've glanced at are rated for much higher.
I think I'll go the route of...
I'd probably oversize the contactor anyways. Just wasn't sure if the rating takes into consideration the inductance, or if it needs to be factored in.
The 7700uF capacitor is actually 3 electrolytic capacitors in parallel. And I'm not sure the intention behind the setup. I'm guessing they were...
I did the experiment mentioned. And it is not the movement of the magnets causing the issue, but solely the inductance of the magnets.
I was also incorrect on the power supply. It isn't 120 Watt, but 14A (336 Watt), which should be able to handle the magnets. I also don't have a DC clamp, so I...
In response to electricpete
The core problem is arcing across the contacts of my relay.
I know this problem is caused by the inductance of the electro-magnet, but it seems to be complicated by the movement of the magnet so quickly after shutting it off.
To remove charge from a magnet = remove...
I clamp for maybe 2 seconds out of an 6-7 second cycle time.
Figuring out the amount of power I need to dissipate will be the more challenging part. I'm trying to get some specifications on the magnets.
What kind of diode would I be looking for? Schottky? Or would that not be required for a...
24V DC, resistance through the magnets is ~2.4ohm when measured with a DMM.
They are powered by a small 24V, 120Watt control systems power supply.
There are 4 magnets at 8" x 4" x 2.5" thick.
All the specifications were done before I inherited this machine, and I have NO information on the...
I'm having issues with arcing while controlling an electromagnet.
I realize arcing across a relays contacts is normally counteracted by using a snubber. But, there's another aspect to my problem which I think will require more than just a snubber.
After removing charge from the magnet, I pull...
