Table of Contents
Choke (Electronics)
In electronics, the term “choke” refers to a passive electrical component that is designed to impede or block the flow of alternating current (AC) while allowing direct current (DC) to pass through relatively unimpeded. Chokes are also known as inductors or reactors.
A choke is essentially an inductor that is specifically used to filter or suppress certain frequencies in an electrical circuit. It consists of a coil of wire wound around a magnetic core, typically made of ferrite or iron. The coil creates a magnetic field when current flows through it, and this magnetic field stores energy.
Chokes are commonly used in electronic circuits for various purposes, like
- Filtering: Chokes are used in power supplies and signal lines to filter out noise and unwanted high-frequency components from the AC power or signal. They block high-frequency noise while allowing the lower-frequency components to pass through.
- EMI Suppression: Chokes are employed in circuits to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) caused by the switching of high-frequency signals or the operation of power electronics devices. They help suppress unwanted electromagnetic emissions and protect sensitive components from interference.
- Power Factor Correction: Chokes are used in power factor correction circuits to improve the efficiency of electrical systems and reduce reactive power. By introducing a choke in series with a load, the current waveform can be reshaped to be in phase with the voltage waveform, thereby improving power factor and reducing energy losses.
- Ballasts: Chokes are utilized in fluorescent lamps and some types of gas discharge lamps as ballasts. They limit the current flowing through the lamp and provide the necessary starting voltage to initiate and maintain the discharge in the lamp.
What is the working principle of choke?
The working principle of a choke, also known as an inductor or reactor, is based on the fundamental property of inductance. Inductance is a characteristic of an electrical circuit that opposes changes in current flow. When an electric current passes through a coil of wire, a magnetic field is generated around the coil. This magnetic field stores energy.
Step-by-step explanation of how a choke works
- Inductive Reactance: When an alternating current (AC) flows through the coil of a choke, it encounters opposition to its flow due to the inductance of the coil. This opposition is known as inductive reactance (symbolized by XL). The inductive reactance increases with increasing frequency.
- Filtering: The choke is typically connected in series with a load or a circuit that requires filtering. At low frequencies or direct current (DC), the inductive reactance is relatively low, allowing the current to flow through the choke with minimal opposition. However, at higher frequencies, the inductive reactance increases, causing the choke to present a higher impedance to the AC components. This behavior filters out or attenuates the higher-frequency components, while allowing the lower-frequency or DC components to pass through relatively unaffected.
- Energy Storage: As the AC current passes through the choke, the magnetic field surrounding the coil stores energy. When the current reverses direction, the magnetic field collapses, releasing the stored energy back into the circuit. This energy storage and release mechanism helps maintain a relatively constant current flow and reduces fluctuations in the circuit.
- EMI Suppression: In circuits designed for electromagnetic interference (EMI) suppression, the choke is used to limit or block high-frequency noise and interference. The inductive reactance of the choke effectively blocks or attenuates the high-frequency signals, preventing them from propagating further in the circuit. This helps to reduce unwanted electromagnetic emissions and interference with other sensitive components.
It’s important to note that the specific characteristics and behavior of a choke depend on factors such as its inductance value, the frequency of the applied current, and the load impedance. Different types of chokes are designed to exhibit specific inductance values and frequency responses to suit different applications, such as filtering, EMI suppression, or power factor correction.
Parts Name of choke
The part name of a choke depends on the specific type and design of the choke. Here are some common part names associated with chokes:
- Inductor: Chokes are often referred to as inductors, especially when they are used in general applications where their primary function is to store energy in a magnetic field. Inductors are available in various sizes, ratings, and package styles.
- Ferrite Bead: Ferrite bead chokes, which are cylindrical components made of ferrite material, are often referred to as ferrite beads. They are commonly used for EMI suppression and noise filtering on power and signal lines. Ferrite beads can be surface-mounted or through-hole components.
- Toroid: Toroidal chokes, which have a coil wound around a toroidal-shaped magnetic core, are sometimes simply called toroids. Toroidal chokes are known for their compact size and superior performance in high-frequency applications.
- Common Mode Choke: Common mode chokes, designed to suppress common mode noise, are often specifically referred to as common mode chokes. These chokes consist of two coils wound on a common magnetic core and are used in applications involving data communication, power line filtering, and EMI reduction.
- Differential Mode Choke: Differential mode chokes, used to filter differential mode noise, may be referred to as differential mode chokes. They are designed to block or attenuate unwanted signals while allowing desired signals to pass through. Differential mode chokes find applications in audio and video systems.
Type of choke
There are several types of chokes used in electronics, each with its own design and application.
Air-Core Choke
This type of choke consists of a coil of wire wound on a non-magnetic form, such as a plastic or ceramic core. Air-core chokes have low inductance values and are used in applications where high-frequency signals need to be filtered or blocked.
Iron-Core Choke
Iron-core chokes have a coil wound around a magnetic core made of iron or iron alloys. The magnetic core enhances the inductance and provides higher energy storage capabilities. Iron-core chokes are commonly used in power supplies, ballasts, and applications that require higher inductance values and better magnetic shielding.
Ferrite Bead Choke
Ferrite bead chokes are small cylindrical components made of ferrite material with a hole in the center. They are commonly used for EMI suppression in electronic circuits. The ferrite material absorbs high-frequency noise by converting it into heat. Ferrite bead chokes are often found on power and signal lines to suppress unwanted electromagnetic interference.
Toroidal Choke
Toroidal chokes consist of a coil wound around a toroidal-shaped magnetic core. The toroidal shape provides good magnetic coupling and high inductance values. Toroidal chokes are known for their compact size, low electromagnetic radiation, and excellent performance in high-frequency applications. They are commonly used in power supplies, audio equipment, and telecommunications.
Common Mode Choke
Common mode chokes are designed to suppress common mode noise, which refers to noise that appears simultaneously on both signal lines with respect to ground. They typically consist of two coils wound on a common magnetic core. Common mode chokes are widely used in applications involving data communication, power line filtering, and EMI reduction.
Differential Mode Choke
Differential mode chokes are used to filter differential mode noise, which refers to noise that appears between two signal lines without reference to ground. They are designed to block or attenuate unwanted signals while allowing desired signals to pass through. Differential mode chokes are commonly used in audio and video applications.
How Electronic Choke Circuit Diagram are Wired
An electronic choke is a device used in fluorescent lighting fixtures to regulate the current flowing through the lamp. It helps to stabilize the current and prevent it from exceeding safe limits. Below is a simple electronic choke circuit diagram along with a brief explanation of its Components:
+———————–+ +————-+ +————-+ +——————+
| Power Supply | —- | Resistor R1 | —- | Inductor L1 | —- | Fluorescent Lamp |
+———————–+ +————-+ +————-+ +——————+
Components:
Power Supply: This is the source of electrical power. It can be an AC power source, and its voltage depends on the specifications of the fluorescent lamp.
Resistor R1: The resistor is often included in the circuit to limit the current flow and protect the other components. Its value is chosen based on the specific requirements of the circuit.
Inductor L1: The inductor, or coil, is the electronic choke itself. It is typically a coil of wire wound around a magnetic core. The inductor resists changes in current and helps regulate the flow of electricity to the fluorescent lamp. The inductor is connected in series with the lamp.
Fluorescent Lamp: This is the load in the circuit. The electronic choke helps control the current flowing through the lamp, ensuring it operates within its specified range.
Operation:
When power is applied, the current flows through the resistor R1 and the inductor L1.
The inductor resists changes in current, causing the current to rise gradually rather than instantaneously. This gradual increase in current helps prevent damage to the fluorescent lamp.
Once the current reaches a steady state, the lamp begins to emit light.
The inductor continues to regulate the current, providing a stable operating condition for the fluorescent lamp.
Choke vs inductor
The terms “choke” and “inductor” are often used interchangeably, as they refer to the same basic component—a coil of wire wound around a core. However, there can be some subtle differences in how these terms are used in specific contexts. Here’s a breakdown:
Choke
The term “choke” is commonly used when referring to inductors that are specifically designed for filtering or suppressing certain frequencies. Chokes are often used in power supplies and signal lines to filter out noise and unwanted high-frequency components while allowing lower-frequency or DC components to pass through. Chokes are also used for EMI suppression and power factor correction. In this context, “choke” implies a specific application or purpose for the inductor.
Inductor
The term “inductor” is a more general term used to describe a passive electrical component that stores energy in its magnetic field when current flows through it. Inductors are used in a wide range of applications beyond filtering or suppressing frequencies. They are utilized in energy storage, timing circuits, impedance matching, resonant circuits, and various electronic systems. “Inductor” is a broader term that encompasses chokes as a specific subset.
A choke can be considered a specialized type of inductor designed for specific filtering or suppression purposes. While the terms are often used interchangeably, “choke” is more commonly used in the context of frequency filtering and noise suppression applications, while “inductor” has a broader application range.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- Filtering and Noise Suppression: Chokes are effective in filtering out high-frequency noise and unwanted signals, allowing for cleaner power or signal transmission. They can improve the overall performance and reliability of electronic circuits by reducing interference.
- EMI Reduction: Chokes help reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) by blocking or attenuating high-frequency electromagnetic signals. This is particularly important in applications where EMI can cause malfunctions or disturbances in sensitive components or nearby electronic devices.
- Energy Storage: Chokes store energy in their magnetic field during the charging phase of an AC signal and release it during the discharge phase. This energy storage capability helps to stabilize and smooth out current flow, reducing voltage fluctuations and improving power quality.
- Power Factor Correction: Chokes are used in power factor correction circuits to improve the efficiency of electrical systems. By reshaping the current waveform, they reduce reactive power, increase power factor, and minimize energy losses.
- Compact Size: Chokes can be designed in compact sizes, making them suitable for applications where space is limited.
Disadvantages
- Inductive Voltage Drop: Chokes introduce an inductive voltage drop due to the inductive reactance they exhibit. This voltage drop can affect the performance of the circuit, especially in applications where voltage regulation is critical.
- Heat Dissipation: Chokes can generate heat due to resistive losses in the wire and core materials. When chokes are subjected to high currents or operate at high frequencies, proper heat dissipation mechanisms need to be considered.
- Cost: Depending on the specific design and application, chokes can be relatively more expensive compared to other passive components.
- Limited Frequency Range: Chokes have a limited frequency range where they exhibit high inductive reactance. Beyond this frequency range, their filtering effectiveness diminishes. The specific frequency range of optimal performance varies depending on the type and design of the choke.
- Magnetic Interference: Chokes, particularly those with iron or ferrite cores, can generate magnetic fields that may interfere with nearby sensitive components or devices. Proper shielding and placement considerations are necessary to minimize such interference.
Application
- Power Supplies: Chokes are used in power supply circuits to filter out high-frequency noise and ripple from the DC output. They help provide a smoother and more stable DC voltage by attenuating unwanted AC components. Chokes are often found in linear power supplies, switching power supplies, and DC-DC converters.
- EMI/RFI Suppression: Chokes are employed in circuits to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). They are used on power lines, signal lines, and cables to suppress and block high-frequency noise and unwanted signals. Chokes can improve the performance and reliability of electronic equipment, such as audio systems, data communication devices, and industrial machinery.
- Filters and Signal Conditioning: Chokes are essential components in filter circuits. They are used in low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and band-stop filters to shape the frequency response of a circuit and attenuate specific frequency ranges. Chokes help to isolate or combine certain frequency components in audio systems, radio receivers, and communication devices.
- Ballasts: Chokes are widely used as ballasts in fluorescent lamps, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), and some types of gas discharge lamps. They limit and control the current flow through the lamp to provide the necessary starting voltage and stabilize the operation of the lamp.
- Power Factor Correction (PFC): Chokes are employed in power factor correction circuits to improve the power factor of electrical systems. By introducing a choke in series with the load, the reactive power is reduced, and the power factor is improved. Power factor correction chokes are commonly used in industrial equipment, motor drives, and power distribution systems.
FAQ
Is choke used on AC or DC?
The choke coil can be used only in AC circuits, not in DC circuits, because for DC (ω=0) the inductive reactance XL=ωL of the coil is zero, only the resistance of the coil remains effective, which also it is almost zero.
Why is choke used in Tubelight?
Without choke the peak current flows in the fluorescent lamp, and with choke (which is an inductor) it stores the current as a load and reduces the value of peak current and aids starting, without choke the lamps may burn out or they never start. .
What is the function of the choke or ballast?
An inductor, usually a choke, is very common in line frequency ballasts to provide the proper starting and running electrical conditions to power a fluorescent lamp or HID lamp. (Because of the use of the inductor, such ballasts are usually called magnetic ballasts.)
You may also like
[…] How Choke (Electronics) Work […]