L/R Time Constant Calculator

Calculate L/R Time Constant



Formula

To calculate the L/R Time Constant (τ):

\[ \tau = \frac{L}{R} \]

Where:

What is an L/R Time Constant?

The L/R time constant, represented by the Greek letter τ (tau), is a measure of the time it takes for the current in an inductive circuit to reach approximately 63.2% of its maximum value after the voltage is applied. It is a critical parameter in the analysis of transient responses in electrical circuits containing inductors and resistors.

Example Calculation 1

Let's assume the following values:

Using the formula:

\[ \tau = \frac{0.5}{10} = 0.05 \text{ seconds} \]

The L/R time constant is 0.05 seconds.

Example Calculation 2

Let's assume the following values:

Using the formula:

\[ \tau = \frac{1.2}{15} = 0.08 \text{ seconds} \]

The L/R time constant is 0.08 seconds.