AC OPERATING COIL Meaning and
Definition
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The AC operating coil refers to an essential component of an electrical device, typically found in electromechanical relays and contactors, which functions to activate the circuit by creating a magnetic field when an alternating current (AC) is supplied. The operating coil consists of a coil of wire wound around a core made of a ferromagnetic material such as iron, which enhances the generation of the magnetic field.
When an AC voltage is applied to the operating coil, the current flowing through the coil constantly changes direction following the frequency of the alternating current. This alternating current produces a magnetic field that interacts with other components of the device, enabling the operation of a specific mechanism. The strength of the magnetic field created by the AC operating coil determines the level of force exerted on the moving parts, allowing for the switching or activation of electrical contacts.
The AC operating coil is designed to be compatible with alternating current, which is the most commonly used form of electricity in commercial and residential applications. Unlike direct current (DC) operating coils, which require a constant and unchanging current, AC operating coils can effectively operate with the changing direction of the alternating current. This makes them suitable for a wide range of devices and applications that require electrical switching or control.
