Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I'm trying to build a microhydro turbine from scratch. For the stator, I was told to use "enameled magnet wire, 24 gage" but I can't find this at our hardware store and they don't know what it is. They suggested I use Cat 3 telephone wire, 24 gage and then strip the outer coat to use the strands inside which are coated. Do you think this will work or do you suggest some other type of cable/wire to make to make the coils for the stator?

Hi,

Enameled copper magnet wire, 24 gauge, should be readily available from lots of sources. You should be able to locate it by doing a google search for “24 gauge enameled copper magnet wire”. Here is a representative list:

https://www.enasco.com/product/SB10518M

http://www.resetelectronics.com/VALUE/I ... 24&eq=&Tp=

http://www.amazon.com/Enameled-Magnet-W ... B0017Y5CKG

Best of success with the project!

Barrett Tomlinson

The efficiency of generators is often determined by how closely coupled the windings are with the magnetic fields. The thickness of the insulation will effect how tightly a coil can be wound and thus the turn density. Enamel insulation has historically been the thinest insulation available so that is historically what is used for motor and generator windings. A few thousandths of an inch difference in insulation might not seem like much but when you have thousands of turns involved it adds up quickly. If you are going to be building a generator, I suggest that you find enameled magnet wire. I'm not sure how much you need for your project; however, Radio Shack has been selling three assorted small spools (three different gauges) of enameled magnet wire, one of which happens to be 24 AWG. This source only works if you only need a small amount.