Eddy Current Effect

The localized circulating electric currents that are generated in a conductor whenever a moving or changing magnetic field intersects the conductor or vice versa. These circulating electric currents create magnet fields that oppose the effect of the applied magnetic field. The stronger the applied magnetic field, or greater the electrical conductivity of the conductor, or greater the relative velocity of motion, the greater the currents developed and greater the opposing magnetic field. This effect is used in eddy current displacement probe sensors to determine the distance between the sensing probe and target material.