Guideline for Hysteresis Curve Measurements with Arbitrary Excitation: Pitfalls to Avoid and Practices to Follow

The voltamperometric method is used to measure hysteresis curves due its apparent simplicity. However, distortions caused by the digital oscilloscope are often disregarded. In this paper, the influence of the data acquisition system on the measured shape of hysteresis curves and its impact on core losses are discussed separately. In addition, some pitfalls of this method are analysed and some recommendations for the selection of the measurement setup and the excitation waveform are given. The aim of this paper is to provide a guide for an easy reproduction of the measurement setup in any laboratory.