Moving coil (PMMC) and moving iron instruments can be distinguished b...
Moving coil (PMMC) and moving iron instruments can be distinguished by observing their scale range.
Scale Range:
The scale range of a measuring instrument is the minimum and maximum values that it can measure. In other words, it is the range of values that can be displayed on the instrument's scale.
Moving Coil (PMMC) Instruments:
Moving Coil (PMMC) instruments are based on the principle of the interaction between a magnetic field and a current-carrying conductor. The coil is suspended in a magnetic field and when a current is passed through it, it experiences a torque that causes it to rotate. This rotation is proportional to the current passing through the coil, and it is indicated by a pointer on a calibrated scale.
Scale Range of Moving Coil (PMMC) Instruments:
Moving Coil (PMMC) instruments have a limited scale range and are suitable for measuring small currents and voltages. They typically have a scale range of a few milliamperes to a few amperes, and a few millivolts to a few volts.
Moving Iron Instruments:
Moving Iron instruments are based on the principle of the interaction between a magnetic field and a piece of iron that is free to move. The iron piece is attracted towards the magnetic field, and the amount of attraction is proportional to the current passing through it. This movement is indicated by a pointer on a calibrated scale.
Scale Range of Moving Iron Instruments:
Moving Iron instruments have a wider scale range than Moving Coil (PMMC) instruments and are suitable for measuring both AC and DC currents and voltages. They typically have a scale range of a few milliamperes to a few amperes, and a few millivolts to a few hundred volts.
Conclusion:
Therefore, we can distinguish between Moving Coil (PMMC) and Moving Iron instruments by observing their scale range. Moving Coil (PMMC) instruments have a limited scale range and are suitable for measuring small currents and voltages, while Moving Iron instruments have a wider scale range and are suitable for measuring both AC and DC currents and voltages.