Two wires coming together via electromagnetic attraction

[DanD.]

Hello, I have a very limited amount of knowledge regarding basic electromagnets. I was thinking of bringing two tips of wires together using an electromagnetic attraction between them (I attached a picture of what I am talking about). I was wondering if this is possible? I would appreciate some feedback regarding this.

 

[Compositepro]

Magnetic fields are created by flowing current. When the wires are separated there is no current and no magnetic fields. Electrostatic attraction is possible to use but the forces would be very low and the voltages very high. Not practical.

If the wires are ferromagnetic (steel), external magnets could be arranged to get the wires to attract each other. Google magnetic reed switches.

 

[Skogsgurra]

If the little "balls" shown are magnets - yes. It would work. In fact, there are magnet-tipped test leads that cling to terminal screws. Very practical when doing measurements in control panels.

But without magnet tips, it won't work. And you will need to have opposite polarity on the magnets. Plus, probably, some insulation.



Gunnar Englund

http://www.gke.org

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