Leakage flux

Leakage flux refers to the magnetic flux that does not link or pass through the intended magnetic path in a magnetic device or circuit. It is the magnetic flux that "leaks" or strays away from the core or primary magnetic circuit.

In transformers, for example, the primary winding produces a magnetic field that is intended to pass through the core and link with the secondary winding to transfer energy efficiently. However, a portion of the magnetic flux may not fully couple with the secondary winding and instead takes alternative paths, including leakage paths. This leakage flux can flow through air or other non-magnetic materials surrounding the core or between the windings.

Leakage flux and fringing



Leakage flux is a result of several factors, including:

Fringing:

 Magnetic field lines tend to spread out at the edges of the core, resulting in some flux not following the desired path. This is particularly evident in devices with gapped cores or air spaces.

Inter-winding spacing:

 In transformers or inductors with multiple windings, the spacing between the windings can influence the amount of leakage flux. Larger spacing between the windings allows more flux to escape and leak.

Magnetic materials and shielding:

 The presence of non-magnetic materials or magnetic shielding can alter the magnetic field lines, diverting some flux away from the desired path and causing leakage.

Leakage flux can have various consequences, including increased resistive losses, reduced mutual inductance between windings, and decreased overall efficiency of the device. It is crucial to account for leakage flux in the design and analysis of magnetic circuits to ensure accurate performance predictions and optimal operation.

Engineers employ various techniques to mitigate the effects of leakage flux, such as using magnetic shielding materials, optimizing core designs, and minimizing the spacing between windings. These measures help to confine the magnetic flux within the desired path and enhance the performance of magnetic devices.

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