Are you given a list of parts by the technical team or a customer and when you read through it you wonder what it is you’re buying? How often do suppliers come back with alternatives and give you technical information that you don’t quite understand. Let’s all be honest we have all been in this situation at one time or another. I will happily pop down to our Machine Shop with a data book in hand to speak to our technical gurus to get a feel and picture for the parts. I like to have a good understanding of what it is I’m dealing with. In this blog we will take a look at the basics of what Ferrite is and some of the applications it can be used in.
So, let’s start with some basic facts and information about Ferrite and their applications to hopefully give you a better understanding of Ferrite. Firstly, what is Ferrite? Simply put ferrite is a ceramic material with magnetic properties. It is a brittle compound made up of iron oxide mixed with any number of other metallic elements such as manganese, zinc and nickel. Depending on the material composition they are classified as soft or hard Ferrites. Ferrite is used in a wide variety of applications from household appliances, to antennas and transformers.
Hard Ferrite holds the magnetic charge so are essentially magnets. They are often used in household items such as electric ovens and fridges. Soft Ferrites are more complex and have a wider range of applications. Unlike hard Ferrite, soft Ferrite does not hold the magnetic charge and when the electric field is removed the magnetism disappears, this is known as having a low coercivity.
Ferrite comes in a variety of shapes and sizes from blocks, cores and toroids, to beads and clamps. There is a chance you will recognise some of these descriptions from parts you have looked at in the past. Each type has its advantages in its given application; Ferrite cores used in a transformer will act as an insulator and has a high electrical resistance, whereas Ferrite in antennas focus the radio waves in the right direction, and Ferrite clamps on cables prevent electromagnetic interference.
Some of the most frequently asked questions we get about Ferrites are based on the applications of Ferrite beads/clamps, if you dig a little deeper into Ferrite clamps it will give you a clearer understanding of how they work. Not only do they have the ability to reduce electromagnetic interference or noise, but they also have the ability to suppress high frequency noise in wires that conduct electricity making them a handy and versatile tool when used correctly.
Gateway stocks over 1000 lines of Ferrite and accessories available of next day delivery. To talk to a member of our sales or technical team about the Ferrites we stock or for advice on which Ferrite would best suit your application please call or email our sales team on 01270 615999 / sales@gatewaycando.com
Struggling to find what you require or looking for something a little bit special, Gateway offers custom gapped and machined Ferrite cores. You can find out more on our CanDo solutions and Machine Shop capabilities here.
We look forward to hearing from you soon!