Iron is the main constituent of ferrofluids. Other common particles are magnetite and hematite. This substance acts as a magnet under thermal agitation and when the right environment is available. Ferrofluids are suspensions where solid particles of metals are suspended in the liquid. There are various applications of ferrofluids because of their ability to change their phase as needed. They are generally used as lubricants and sealants. The other fact of ferrorfluids is that the solid particles that are present in the fluid do not come together or separate even if strong magnetic field is applied.
Ferrofluids, as said earlier are useful for various applications in industries and businesses. They are used as liquid seals for sealing the gap around hard disk shafts. They are used in machines because of their friction reducing capabilities. Diseases like cancer are being detected and treated with the help of these fluids. Their other properties are exploited for use in loudspeakers as well, for reducing the heat.
Ferrofluids are also used in art works. In various art and science museums, they are used along with other magnets to create a fountain like flow. These fluids are also used on desks and shelves that display them in suspension solutions. They can also be found easily in offices and homes as a piece of décor.
When ferrofluid is bought in the vicinity of a strong magnet, it tends to stand up at attention thus creating peaks and valleys that look black and shiny. This is an effect that is produced because of their tendency to react to magnetic field and is named as field instability. The peaks and valleys that are developed have varying degree of magnetism. Peaks have the strongest magnetic intensity while valleys have the weakest.
Ferrofluids are also used in electrical transformers. These transformers are liquid-filled. The dielectric and thermal benefits of ferrofluids make them suitable for use within these transformers. These fluids help is cooling the transformer by circulating within the transformer windings. The other use of ferrofluids is for increasing the capacity of the transformers. They are being exploited to make smaller and efficient transformers and for extending the load- capacity of existing ones. They are also used in sensors and switches.
