Inductance Calculator

Calculate inductance in electrical circuits and magnetic fields. Analyze coil properties, magnetic flux, and convert between inductance units.

About Inductance Calculator

Understanding Inductance

The phenomenon of electromagnetic induction was discovered by Michael Faraday in 1831. The concept of inductance was later formalized by James Clerk Maxwell and Joseph Henry, leading to the development of modern electromagnetic theory and the design of inductors as fundamental electronic components.

Mathematical Foundation

V = L × (dI/dt)
E = ½LI²
L = N²μA/l

V = Induced voltage (V)
L = Inductance (H)
I = Current (A)
E = Energy stored (J)
N = Number of turns
μ = Permeability
A = Core area (m²)
l = Core length (m)

Types of Inductors

Air Core Inductors

No magnetic core
Linear response
High frequency use
Low inductance values

Iron Core Inductors

Ferromagnetic core
Higher inductance
Power applications
Saturation limits

Ferrite Core Inductors

High frequency use
Lower losses
EMI suppression
Temperature stable

Applications

Power Systems

Power supplies (1-100H)
Motors (10-1000mH)
Transformers (0.1-1000H)
Grid equipment (1-1000H)

Electronics

RF circuits (0.1-100μH)
Filters (1-1000μH)
EMI suppression (1-100mH)
Sensors (0.1-10mH)

Design Considerations

Core Properties

Permeability: 1-100,000
Saturation flux
Core losses
Temperature effects

Operating Parameters

Current rating
Frequency range
Temperature range
Size constraints

Circuit Effects

Time Domain

Current lag
Energy storage
Transient response
Back EMF

Frequency Domain

Impedance: XL = 2πfL
Phase shift: 90°
Resonance effects
Filter characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What is inductance?

Inductance is a property of an electrical conductor by which a change in current induces an electromotive force (EMF). It is measured in henries (H) and represents how much magnetic energy is stored for a given current. The larger the inductance, the more the inductor opposes changes in current.

What factors affect inductance?

Several factors influence inductance: • Number of turns in the coil • Coil diameter and length • Core material (air vs. ferromagnetic) • Turn spacing and wire gauge • Presence of nearby conductors

What are common uses of inductors?

Inductors are used in many applications: • Power supplies and filters • RF circuits and tuners • Motor windings • Transformers • Chokes for noise suppression • Energy storage in switching circuits

How do inductors affect AC circuits?

In AC circuits, inductors: • Create impedance proportional to frequency • Cause current to lag voltage by 90° • Store energy in magnetic fields • Can resonate with capacitors • Help filter out high frequencies

Learn More

Inductors Electromagnetic Induction Magnetic Cores