Beginner
Electromagnet
Wind a simple low-voltage coil around an iron core and switch it briefly to pick up small steel objects.
Safety first, always.
ElectroLab AI teaches theory, low-voltage electronics, and planning concepts. Mains voltage, switchboards, fixed wiring, high-current systems, and legal electrical work must only be performed by licensed electricians where required.
Open Safety CenterBuild target
See magnetic fields from current and learn why coils need current limits.
Build steps
1.Wrap enamelled wire evenly around an iron bolt, leaving leads at both ends.
2.Scrape enamel off the wire ends so copper is exposed.
3.Wire the coil in series with a switch and a low-voltage battery.
4.Switch on briefly and test pickup with small steel washers or paper clips.
5.Turn off and check coil temperature between tests.
What you are learning
1.Current through a coil creates a magnetic field.
2.More turns and more current increase magnetic effect.
3.Coils can create voltage spikes when switched off.
Bench tests
1.Measure coil resistance before powering.
2.Estimate current with Ohm's Law before connecting the battery.
3.Check whether reversing polarity changes pickup strength.
Fault finding
1.No magnetism: scrape enamel better and check continuity.
2.Battery gets hot: coil resistance is too low or test time is too long.
3.Switch sparks: add flyback protection for repeated switching.
Upgrades
1.Add a flyback diode for DC coil protection.
2.Try different core materials.
3.Compare turns count versus current draw.
Project safety
Use low voltage and short test times. Coils and batteries can heat quickly if resistance is low.