Magnet Wire

Choose the proper magnet wire products to conduct electricity for your application

Magnet wire is typically copper or aluminum wire with enamel insulation for superior heat resistance that generates an electrical field in applications for the motor, automotive, transformer and generator industries. Specific uses for magnetic wire products include appliance motors, small transformers, automotive coils, watches, loudspeakers and headphones.

Available on biconical spools for use on high-speed winding machines, tapered spools to accommodate heavier wire sizes and traditional straight barrel spools, the electrical conductor is available in a range of materials, insulation styles and gauges. Gather the following magnet wire information to help with your company's buying decision:

1. Analyze your project requirements to determine the suitable type of magnet wire conductor material and American Wire Gauge (AWG) size.

2. Decide if your application requires a special configuration of copper magnet wire, such as Litz wire that uses multiple individually-coated strands to reduce power loss.

3. Assess future needs to determine the amount of magnet wire you’ll need and get price quotes based on such factors as specific gauge, enamel build and temperature class.

Match the right type of magnet wire to your company's requirements

Since suppliers of magnet wire offer versions with conductor materials such as copper, copper clad aluminum, brass, gold and stainless steel, insulation like Polyurethane or Polyester and thermal classes up to 220 degrees Celsius, it's essential to match the wire's properties to your application for maximum efficiency. The magnet wire info provided on manufacturer and distributor websites will reveal the ideal applications based on factors such as tensile strength, density and conductivity.

Determine if you need magnet wire with a multiple-strand configuration for high efficiency

By twisting or braiding separately insulated magnet wires, Litz wire allows each strand to take multiple positions along the cable to distribute the electrical current evenly and reduce power loss. The specialty wire is ideal for applications such as televisions, motors, relays, communications and sonar equipment.

Contact magnet wire suppliers to obtain quotes and ensure you get the best price

Although magnet wire prices vary according to such factors as the insulation, overcoat and thermal class, comparison shop and inquire about bulk magnet wire pricing if you plan to order multiple spools. Note that some distributors won't take returns on magnet wire unless you purchase a full spool.

• Study the literature that comes with your specific wire type to determine proper storage methods for surplus magnet wire. For example, prevent moisture absorption by storing high temperature magnet wire with a desiccant in an airtight container.

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