The use of an inductor depends on the electrical transmission requirements. It can be used in the following ways:
1. In chokes
When AC current passes through an inductor, it generates current in the opposite direction. The inductor then chokes the AC current and passes it through the DC. This is used in power supplies where AC power is converted to DC power.
2. In tuned circuits
By using an inductor, a tuned circuit can select the desired frequency. Electronic devices such as radio tuned circuits and TVs use capacitors and inductors. It modifies the frequency and helps in selecting among multiple frequency channels.
3. Storing energy in devices
Inductors store energy. The energy is stored in the form of a magnetic field and disappears when the power is removed. You can see this in computer circuits where the power supply can be switched.
4. As a sensor
Inductive proximity sensors are very reliable in operation and are non-contact. The main principle behind them is inductance, which is the magnetic field in the coil that is opposite to the current flow. Proximity sensor mechanisms are used in traffic signals to detect traffic density.
5. As a relay
Relays act as electrical switches. The use of an inductive coil in contact with alternating current in a switch generates a magnetic field.
6. In induction motors
In an induction motor, an inductor controls the speed of the motor. The shaft in the motor rotates due to the magnetic field generated by the alternating current. You can fix the speed of the motor according to the frequency of the power supply.
7. As a transformer
You can design a transformer using a combination of inductors with shared magnetic fields. Power transmission systems illustrate one of the main uses of transformers. They are used to reduce or increase power transmission, such as step-down or step-up transformers.
8. As filters
You can use combinations of inductors and capacitors as filters. When these filters are used, the frequency of the input signal as it enters the circuit is limited. As the frequency of the power supply increases, the impedance of the inductor increases.
