How to Make a Magnet Generator

It is a simple process to use household magnets to make a small electrical generator capable of lighting an electric bulb. This can be a science fair project or an ideal way for a teacher to show their students how power generation works. Learn how to make a small electrical generator capable of powering small electric light bulb.

Things You'll Need

• Large unfolded piece of cardboard
• Small electric light bulb (1.5 Volts, Low Amperage)
• 2 magnets
• Spacers
• Nail
• Scissors or a box cutter
• Ruler
• Magnet wire
• Tape

Instructions

1. Cut out the "box" for the generator. The dimensions for the generator box are 30.7 centimeters by 8 centimeters tall. Cut this out of the cardboard, and then subdivide the cardboard into 8 centimeters, 3.5 centimeters, 3.5 centimeters, and 7.7 centimeter segments. Fold the measured segments into the shape of a small box.

2. Make a hole in the box for the nail. The nail will serve as an axle around which the generator spins. Poke the hole through the front of the box. Move the box into a position where you can see the nail poking through. Move the nail to the bottom of the box, but do not make the second hole just yet. Make sure the "axle" is straight, and then push the nail through the bottom two layers of cardboard. Once this is done, make the holes larger by poking the nail through the hole and wiggling the nail around. Tape the ends of the box together when this step is completed.

3. Combine the magnets. Place the magnets together and put the spacers between them. There should be a small amount of space between the spacers. This will allow the user to spin the magnets.

4. Wrap the wire around the box -- The wire must be wrapped 200 to 300 times around the box. The electrical current flows through the wire. Be careful not to wrap the wire around the box so tightly that the box gets crushed.

5. Tape the magnet wire to the box -- Secure the wire to the box so it does not come loose, but leave some wire off at the end, as this will be needed for the next step.

6. Remove insulation from the wires and twist the metal together -- Remove the insulation from the loose end and twist it together. Be sure to leave two loose ends on the wire. These loose ends will be attached to the leads on the bulb.

7. Insert the magnets and the nail -- Place the magnets in the center of the cardboard box. Insert the nail through the holes. Spin the nail around rapidly. The axle turns the magnets, and it is the rotation of the magnets that produces the electric current necessary to light the light bulb.

Resources

• Science Fair Project Generator