Author
Home > Engineering > What is the Difference Between Hysteresis and Eddy Current Loss?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Hysteresis and Eddy Current Loss?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

Hysteresis loss and eddy current loss are two types of losses that occur in magnetic materials, such as those used in induction motors and transformers. Here are the key differences between them:

  • Hysteresis loss: This loss occurs due to the reversal of magnetism in a magnetic material when it is subjected to a changing magnetic field. The energy required to complete a full cycle of magnetizing and demagnetizing the core is represented by the area of the hysteresis loop.
  • Eddy current loss: This loss occurs because of the interaction between a conductor and a magnetic field. When an AC electromagnetic device, such as a motor or transformer, is in operation, eddy currents are induced in the conductor, leading to energy loss.

In summary, hysteresis loss is related to the reversal of magnetism in a magnetic material, while eddy current loss is due to the interaction between a conductor and a magnetic field. Both losses contribute to the generation of heat in magnetic materials, leading to reduced efficiency in AC electromagnetic devices.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Hysteresis and Eddy Current Loss?
  • Comparative Table: Hysteresis vs Eddy Current Loss

    • Comparative Table: Hysteresis vs Eddy Current Loss

    Here is a table comparing the differences between hysteresis loss and eddy current loss:

    Property Hysteresis Loss Eddy Current Loss
    Definition Energy loss that occurs due to the reversal of magnetization in a ferromagnetic material under an alternating magnetic field. Energy loss that occurs due to the formation of eddy currents in a conductor as a result of the interaction between the conductor and a changing magnetic field.
    Loss Type Magnetic loss. Magnetic loss.
    Occurrence Occurs in the core of a transformer. Occurs in the core of a transformer.
    Minimization Minimized by using a core material with a low hysteresis coefficient, such as silicon alloys or alloy steel. Minimized by using thin lamination or silicon steel material.
    Equation $$Pb = \eta * Bmax^n * f * V$$. $$Pe = Ke * Bmax^2 * f^2 * t^2 * V$$.
    Dependence Depends on the material's magnetization properties. Depends on the interaction between the magnetic field and the conductor.

    Both hysteresis loss and eddy current loss are types of magnetic losses that occur in transformers and other magnetic devices. They represent energy dissipated in the form of heat due to magnetic processes, and they can be minimized by using specific core materials and designs.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.