Why are the iron cores of most induction coils laminated?

The iron cores of most induction coils are laminated to reduce the effects of eddy currents. When an alternating current passes through the coil, it creates a changing magnetic field, which can induce circulating currents, known as eddy currents, in the core material itself. These eddy currents can generate heat and lead to energy losses, reducing the overall efficiency of the induction coil.

By laminating the core, the cross-sectional area through which these eddy currents can flow is reduced, as each lamination is insulated from the others. This insulation restricts the path of the currents, effectively diminishing their magnitude and impact on the coil's performance. As a result, the induction coil operates more efficiently, enabling better energy transfer and minimizing losses.

This lamination process is crucial in applications where induction heating or transformers are used, as maintaining high efficiency is essential for effective energy management in electrical systems.