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Question

What is the working principle of an LVDT?

This question was previously asked in
RRB NTPC 2025 Graduate Level CBT 1 Question Paper (25-Mar-2026) (Shift 3)
The correct answer is

It operates on the principle of mutual induction

The Linear Variable Differential Transformer (LVDT) is an electromechanical device used to measure linear displacement (position). It operates on the principle of mutual induction, which makes it highly accurate and reliable for various applications, including industrial and scientific measurements.

To understand why the correct answer is that an LVDT operates on the principle of mutual induction, let's delve into how an LVDT works:

  1. Construction of LVDT: It consists of a primary coil and two secondary coils symmetrically placed around a movable ferromagnetic core. The primary coil is energized with an alternating current (AC).
  2. Operation Principle: The AC current in the primary coil induces an alternating magnetic field. This magnetic field induces voltages in the secondary coils by the principle of mutual induction. The position of the movable core affects the magnetic coupling between the primary and secondary coils.
  3. Displacement Measurement: Depending on the position of the core, different voltages are induced in the secondary coils. These voltages are in opposite phase; thus, they produce a differential output voltage proportional to the core's position.
  4. Detection and Readout: The output differential voltage is then processed to determine the exact displacement of the core, which corresponds to the position being measured.

Justification for Options:

  1. It relies on the Hall effect for sensing: The Hall effect is a separate phenomenon used in different types of sensors but not in LVDTs.
  2. It operates on the principle of mutual induction: This is the correct option, as explained above.
  3. It uses the piezoelectric effect for measurement: The piezoelectric effect involves generating voltage from mechanical stress and is not relevant to LVDTs.
  4. It works by changing resistance with position: This refers to a resistive position sensor, not a principle involving mutual induction as seen in LVDTs.

Thus, the correct answer is: It operates on the principle of mutual induction.

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