Magnet Wire

Wire used for winding in electrical equipment is referred to as magnet wire (also sometimes as motor wire or winding wire). In simplest terms, magnet wire is used for interchanging electrical energy with magnetic energy. The most common magnet wire is copper insulated wire used in electric motors – one of the greatest inventions of all time, right up there with the wheel and light bulb. Magnet wires can be divided into broad categories that include enameled wire, covered (or served) wire, or combinations of the two.

Magnet wire types can be quite varied but will include the following features: (a) uniformity of insulation, (b) good electrical properties like dielectric strength and insulation resistance, (c) resistance to mechanical stress, (d) resistance to chemicals, solvents, and encapsulating varnishes, (e) thermal resistance, and (f) long thermal life. Any magnet wire should exhibit strong properties in one or more of these features. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, the main idea being that an electric current makes a magnetic field. Therefore, operating conditions are critical in selection of wire type for any specific application.