The sum of hysteresis loss and eddy current loss in electrical systems is known as **core loss** or **iron loss**. Both hysteresis and eddy current losses occur in the core material of electrical machines like transformers and motors. Letβs break down each component and then combine them to understand their total impact.
### 1. Hysteresis Loss
Hysteresis loss arises due to the repeated magnetization and demagnetization of the core material as the magnetic field within it changes. This process causes the core material to lose energy in the form of heat. The magnitude of hysteresis loss depends on:
- **Material properties:** Different core materials have different hysteresis loss characteristics. For instance, silicon steel has lower hysteresis loss compared to pure iron.
- **Frequency of magnetic field changes:** Higher frequencies lead to higher hysteresis losses.
- **Magnetic flux density:** Greater flux density increases hysteresis loss.
The hysteresis loss \( P_h \) can be estimated using the formula:
\[ P_h = \eta B_{max}^n f \]
where:
- \( \eta \) is the hysteresis loss coefficient of the material,
- \( B_{max} \) is the maximum flux density,
- \( n \) is the Steinmetz exponent (usually between 1.5 and 2.5),
- \( f \) is the frequency of the alternating magnetic field.
### 2. Eddy Current Loss
Eddy current loss is caused by circulating currents induced in the core material by changing magnetic fields. These currents create their own magnetic fields, which oppose the original magnetic field and cause energy loss in the form of heat. The magnitude of eddy current loss depends on:
- **Material properties:** Core materials with higher electrical conductivity have higher eddy current losses.
- **Frequency of magnetic field changes:** Higher frequencies increase eddy current losses.
- **Core thickness:** Thicker cores have higher eddy current losses.
The eddy current loss \( P_e \) can be estimated using the formula:
\[ P_e = \frac{B_{max}^2 f^2 d^2}{\rho} \]
where:
- \( B_{max} \) is the maximum flux density,
- \( f \) is the frequency,
- \( d \) is the thickness of the core material,
- \( \rho \) is the electrical resistivity of the core material.
### 3. Core Loss (Iron Loss)
The total core loss is the sum of hysteresis loss and eddy current loss:
\[ P_{core} = P_h + P_e \]
### Summary
In practical terms, engineers aim to minimize core losses by using materials with lower hysteresis and eddy current loss characteristics. For example, silicon steel with its high electrical resistivity and low hysteresis loss is commonly used in transformer cores to reduce these losses. Understanding and managing these losses is crucial for designing efficient electrical machines and transformers.