Scribd
Upload
20 views3 pages

EEG 317 - Ogungbemi Stephen Dare 210320514 Technology Education Assignment 2

The document details the construction of a Permanent Magnet Moving Coil (PMMC) instrument, highlighting its components such as the permanent magnet assembly, moving coil, suspension mechanism, return spring, scale and pointer assembly, damping mechanism, and housing. Each component plays a crucial role in ensuring accurate and reliable measurements by converting electrical signals into mechanical motion. The document emphasizes the importance of precise engineering and material selection in the overall functionality of the PMMC instrument.

Uploaded by

Tim
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
20 views3 pages

EEG 317 - Ogungbemi Stephen Dare 210320514 Technology Education Assignment 2

The document details the construction of a Permanent Magnet Moving Coil (PMMC) instrument, highlighting its components such as the permanent magnet assembly, moving coil, suspension mechanism, return spring, scale and pointer assembly, damping mechanism, and housing. Each component plays a crucial role in ensuring accurate and reliable measurements by converting electrical signals into mechanical motion. The document emphasizes the importance of precise engineering and material selection in the overall functionality of the PMMC instrument.

Uploaded by

Tim
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 3

EEG 317 - Instrumentation & Measurement I

Ogungbemi Stephen Dare

210320514

Technology Education

Assignment 2:

Explain in detail the construction of a PMMC instrument shown in Figure 5

Solution:

The construction of a PMMC instrument is a blend of magnetic, mechanical, and electrical


engineering. The permanent magnet creates a stable and uniform field, the moving coil
converts electrical signals into mechanical motion, and the precise suspension, return
spring, damping, and scale mechanisms work in concert to provide accurate and reliable
measurements. Below is the detailed explanation of the construction of a PMMC
instrument:

1. Permanent Magnet Assembly


The Permanent Magnet Moving Coil (PMMC) instrument's operation is predicated on the
precise generation of a uniform magnetic field. Typically configured in a horseshoe or ring
topology, this magnet creates a well-defined air gap, facilitating the establishment of a
homogeneous magnetic field.
To ensure optimal performance, the permanent magnet is rigidly mounted within the
instrument's frame, thereby maintaining a stable and concentrated magnetic flux. The
magnetic field's uniformity and intensity are paramount, as they directly interact with the
moving coil's current-induced magnetic field, generating a proportional torque.

This torque, a consequence of the Lorentz force, is the fundamental mechanism underlying
the PMMC instrument's operation, enabling the precise measurement of
electrical quantities.

2. Moving Coil
The moving coil assembly is a precision-engineered component, comprising a lightweight,
rectangular loop of fine, insulated copper wire. The coil is wound to exacting specifications
to ensure optimal performance and minimal electromagnetic interference.

To mitigate additional magnetic interference, the coil is mounted on a non-magnetic former,


typically fabricated from materials such as paper, plastic, or wood. This design consideration
ensures that the coil's rotational motion is solely attributed to the interaction between the
electrical current and the magnetic field.

When an electrical current flows through the coil, the Lorentz force induces a torque,
causing the coil to rotate within the air gap. This rotational motion is directly proportional to
the magnitude of the measured electrical parameter, providing a precise indication of the
parameter's value.

3. Suspension and Pivot Mechanism


To facilitate smooth and frictionless rotation, the moving coil is mounted on a finely
engineered pivot system. High-quality PMMC instruments often employ jewel bearings,
which is a small pieces of synthetic ruby or sapphire, to minimize friction and wear at the
pivot points. This suspension system not only ensures the free movement of the coil but also
maintains alignment within the magnetic field, which is crucial for accuracy and
repeatability.

4. Return (Hair) Spring


Attached to the moving coil assembly is a delicate hair spring made from materials like music
wire. This spring serves as a restoring force that brings the coil back to its zero or equilibrium
position when no current is present. The torque generated by the hair spring is directly
proportional to the angular deflection of the coil, providing a linear relationship between the
measured electrical current and the resulting deflection. This proportionality is what allows
the PMMC instrument to deliver precise and repeatable measurements.

5. Scale and Pointer Assembly


A pointer, rigidly fixed to the moving coil, travels over a calibrated scale that is typically
marked on a glass or plastic face. The scale is meticulously designed to convert the angular
displacement of the coil into a corresponding measurement, whether it be current, voltage,
or another parameter. The clarity and accuracy of the scale markings are vital, as they enable
the user to read the instrument’s output directly and confidently.

6. Damping Mechanism
To ensure that the pointer settles quickly and without oscillations, PMMC instruments
incorporate a damping mechanism. This is commonly achieved through air damping, where
a vane attached to the moving assembly moves through a confined air space, or through
eddy current damping, in which a conductor moves within a magnetic field to produce
currents that oppose the coil’s motion. Effective damping is essential for rapid stabilization of
the reading, thereby enhancing the overall responsiveness of the instrument.

7. Mechanical Housing and Electrical Connections


All the aforementioned components are housed within a robust and carefully designed
frame. This enclosure not only protects the delicate inner workings from external shocks,
dust, and environmental fluctuations but also ensures that the alignment between the
permanent magnet and the moving coil remains undisturbed. The mechanical housing is
typically constructed from durable materials like plastic or metal. Additionally, high-quality
electrical leads are connected to the moving coil, allowing for the seamless integration of
the PMMC instrument into external circuits. These connections are designed to minimize
noise and ensure consistent performance over time.

You might also like