Expert: Spaceman - 2/2/2005

Question
Hi
I am a highschool student interested in building an electromagnet that can attract as heavy the material as possible.  I know a simple electromagnet can be made by wrapping wires around a conductor, such as nail, and attach a power supply to it.  However, I am interested to maximize the power of my electromagnet as much as possible.  So what kind of conductor should I get that is common enough to find it in stores but good enough to maximize the power of electromagnet?  Since I really want my active region (place where the electromagnet attract materials) to be flat, what kind of conductor is best suited for that?  My electromagnet should really not be bigger than 15 cm in turns of height, width, and length.  I would really like some suggestions from you as to maximize the power of my electromagnet as much as possible so it can attract some really heavy things.  That would be very appreciated.

Thank you

Katrina


Answer
Hello Katrina:

Thanks for your questions!

Please review the following websites for some good info on this topic:

First visit: http://www.bearwoodphysics.com/ks3.1.f.htm

Then review:
1. http://www.sunsationalkids.com/electromagnet.html
2. http://www.amazing1.com/cgi-bin/mof.cgi?order=1----ELMAG20----700+lb+Electro+Mag...

These sites should provide you with some guidance on how to build a strong electromagnet.


My Best Wishes,
Spaceman