rad0 wrote
> When you make a transformer, do you have to
> use insulated wire??  I was looking at a transformer
> the other day and it seemed to look like 'bare' copper
> wire.  Is it insulated with some sort of clear spray, or
> is it really bare copper wire.
>
> I want to make an electro-magnet.
>
> Thanks in advance.

Yes
The wire must be insulated, the wire you saw would
probably have some sort of clear enamel on it.

Uninsulated wire will simply short out the turns, resulting
in excess current and no significant flux being generated
in the core.


_____________________________

Lance Allen
Technical Officer
Uni of Auckland
Psych Dept
New Zealand

www.psych.auckland.ac.nz

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