INITIAL LABORATORY REPORT

LABORATORY EXPERIMENT 2

Submitted by:

Anis, Karl Jefferson V.

Cantos, Joanne O.

De Villa, Angel Joyce S.

Layderos, Renz M.

Morales, Jullian Ross T.

Ramos, Kim Andrei M.

Sarmiento, Dwillard Andre S.

Tokoyo, Juemel M.

Villanueva, Jed Ralph E.

Submitted to:

Engr. Roxas, Ma. Angela Therese

March 5, 2024
I. Introduction to DC Motors

A. Definition

DC motors are electric motors that run on direct current (DC) electricity and convert
electrical energy into mechanical energy to produce rotational motion. They consist of a stator
(stationary part) and a rotor (rotating part) connected by a shaft. DC motors are widely used in
various applications, including automotive, industrial machinery, robotics, consumer electronics,
healthcare, food service, and numerous industrial applications. The introduction of DC motors
has made industrial work significantly more efficient, allowing equipment to operate with a
consistent source of power and speed. DC motors have made it much easier for many other
sectors to run on a daily basis by eliminating the need for humans or animals to perform manual
tasks and replacing them with motorized equipment. Many of us would struggle to function in
our daily lives without DC motors.

B. Basic Principle

DC motors are utilized in a wide range of applications that affect our daily lives,
alleviating us of a significant amount of effort. However, due to the huge number of DC motors
utilized, it takes a significant amount of time and resources to inspect them at the conclusion of
their production cycle. The time required for this process should be kept as short as possible so
that the inspection method is not the slowest portion of the manufacturing process. Because of
the increased mass production of these motors, inspection processes have been devised that can
detect the test objects' characteristic curves in seconds.

DC motors have numerous uses, functions, and importance across various industries and
applications. DC motors are extensively used in industrial machinery for tasks such as conveyor
belt systems, pumps, fans, and machine tools due to their ability to provide high torque at low
speeds. DC motors have been historically used in electric vehicles for propulsion. While newer
technologies like brushless DC motors and AC induction motors are gaining popularity, DC
motors are still used in some applications due to their simplicity and ease of control. DC motors
are commonly employed in robotics for driving wheels, joints, and other mechanical components
due to their precise speed and torque control capabilities. Many household appliances such as
vacuum cleaners, blenders, and electric shavers use DC motors for their compact size, efficiency,
and quiet operation.

DC motors are utilized in various aerospace and aviation applications, including actuating
control surfaces, moving flaps, and operating landing gear mechanisms. Also, they are found in
medical devices such as infusion pumps, respirators, and surgical tools due to their reliability,
precision, and compact size. DC motors are used in renewable energy systems such as wind
turbines and solar tracking systems to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy or adjust
the orientation of solar panels. It powers many components of home automation systems,
including automatic blinds, garage door openers, and smart thermostats, enabling convenient and
efficient control of household devices.

The importance of DC motors lies in their versatility, efficiency, reliability, and

controllability. They offer precise speed and torque control, high starting torque, and are
relatively simple in design, making them suitable for a wide range of applications across various
industries. Additionally, advancements in motor control technologies have further enhanced their
performance and efficiency, cementing their significance in modern technological advancements.
 C. Historical Background

The history of DC motors dates back to the 19th century. In 1832, British scientist
William Sturgeon invented the first DC motor capable of powering machines. Sturgeon's initial
development was developed by Thomas Davenport, an American scientist. Davenport is credited
with developing the first operational DC motor, which he patented in 1837. However, Davenport
encountered some challenges with the expense of battery power when the motors were operating.
This rendered the motors useless at standing up over time.

Antonio Pacinotti recognized the ring armature for the first time in 1864, ushering in a
watershed moment in DC motor history. This has evolved into an essential component of the DC
motor's architecture, carrying current through a series of coils. Despite all of these advancements,
the 1800s did not see a more practical DC motor with greater speed control. This occurred in
1886, when Frank Julian Sprague constructed a motor capable of maintaining constant speed
under varying loads. His innovation resulted in the widespread commercial application of the DC
motor, such as the first electric elevator and powered trolley system. The practicality of this DC
motor resulted in a rise in demand in both commercial and domestic applications.

Despite all of the developments that occurred throughout the nineteenth century, one of
the most significant occurred in 1886. Julian Sprague designed a DC motor that could maintain a
constant speed under fluctuating loads. Sprague's idea would result in the commercial usage of
the DC motor. This would include early versions of the electric elevator and trams. These
innovations created a significant demand for motors for both commercial and residential
applications.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, DC motors saw widespread adoption in various
industrial applications, powering machinery in factories, mines, and transportation systems. The
development of electric power distribution systems further fueled the demand for DC motors, as
they provided a reliable and efficient means of converting electrical energy into mechanical
power.

Throughout the 20th century, advancements in materials, manufacturing processes, and

control technologies continued to improve the performance and efficiency of DC motors.
However, with the advent of semiconductor technology and the development of more efficient
motor designs such as AC induction motors and brushless DC motors, the dominance of DC
motors in many applications began to decline.

II. Types of DC Motors

1. Brushed DC Motors

a. Construction and working principle

Due to their strong starting torque and high speed capability, DC motors are one
of the most popular types of electric motors utilized in many applications nowadays.
These motors are available in a variety of varieties, but the brushed DC motor type is
still a good option, particularly for low-end and economical applications.

A brush DC motor, like the majority of electric motors, is made up of two main
components: the rotor, which rotates the motor, and the stator, which is the motor's
stationary portion. As seen in the figure below, the rotor usually consists of coils
wound around an iron core and encircled by magnets (housed in the stator).

A DC voltage between the brushes allows current to flow to the rotor windings.
The rotor windings behave like magnets as a result of the electric current energizing
the rotor coils and producing magnetic poles. The motor shaft rotates as a result of the
 magnetic poles beginning to repel (and attract) the poles of the permanent magnet that
makes up the stator.

Electric current flow in the coil is stopped when the rotor reaches a point when
the brushes and commutator are out of touch. But because of initial momentum, the
rotor keeps turning, bringing the commutator and brushes back into contact. By doing
this, the system's current flow is restored, and the motor shaft's rotation is guaranteed.

b. Advantages and disadvantages

The benefits of brushed DC motors are many. They pair well with simple,
inexpensive controllers and are reasonably priced to build. Furthermore, operation is
simplified because no controller is needed at consistent speeds. They just require two
wires to operate, which makes them perfect for severe situations due to their lack of
electronics. In addition, they are simply maintained by swapping out worn-out
brushes, guaranteeing extended life.

Brushed DC motors do, however, come with a few downsides. The need for
routine maintenance to replace the brushes could raise maintenance expenses. When
compared to other motor types, they are less efficient, and the electrical noise they
make makes them noisy. Their dynamic qualities are limited by their internal rotor
construction, which leads to poor heat dissipation. Although the torque/speed ratio is
rather flat, greater speeds have the potential to reduce usable torque due to increasing
brush friction. Furthermore, these motors' speed range is constrained by the
mechanical limitations of their brushes. Finally, noise can be produced by electrical
and magnetic interference caused by brush arcing.

2. Brushless DC Motors (BLDC)

a. Construction and working principle

An electronically controlled commutation system, as opposed to a mechanically

commutation system, is achieved by a brushless DC motor (also referred to as
BLDC), which is a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor powered by direct
current (DC) electricity. Commutation is the process of producing rotational torque in
the motor by changing phase currents through it at appropriate times. Another name
for BLDC motors is trapezoidal permanent magnet motors.

As opposed with standard brushed DC motors, which use brushes to mechanically

contact the rotor's commutator to create an electric path between the rotor's armature
windings and a DC electric source, brushless DC motors use electrical commutation
with a permanent magnet rotor and a stator that has a series of coils. This motor has
 fixed current-carrying conductors and a rotating permanent magnet, sometimes
known as field poles.

There are several physical configurations available for BLDC motors. These can
be set up as single-phase, two-phase, or three-phase motors, depending on the stator
windings. Nonetheless, the most often utilized BLDC motors are three-phase models
with permanent magnet rotors.

This motor's structure bears many similarities to both ordinary DC motors and
three phase induction motors. Like other motors, this one has rotor and stator
components.

A BLDC motor's stator is composed of layered steel laminations that support the
windings. These windings are positioned inside the stator's inner perimeter, in slots
that have been axially carved. These windings can be set up in a delta or star
configuration. The majority of BLDC motors, however, use a three phase star linked
stator.

A number of interconnected coils are used to build each winding, with one or
more coils inserted into each slot. Each of these windings is dispersed over the stator's
periphery to provide an even number of poles.

Depending on the capacity of the power source, the stator must be selected with
the appropriate voltage rating. 48 V or lower voltage BLDC motors are recommended
for robotics, automotive, and tiny actuation applications. Motors rated at 100 V or
greater are employed in automation systems and industrial applications.

b. Advantages and disadvantages

BLDC (brushless DC) motors have a number of advantages. First of all, because
they don't utilize brushes, they require less maintenance than brushed DC motors,
 which helps explain why they last longer. They are perfect for applications needing
high-level control since they offer exact control over both speed and position. In
addition, BLDC motors have a high torque to speed ratio that is advantageous for
robots and medical equipment, and they spark less, which lowers the risk of burnout.
Because they don't have an electromagnet, they also produce less heat and run quietly,
which makes them appropriate for places where noise is an issue.

BLDC motors do have some disadvantages, though. Usually, they operate at

slower rates, which in some situations could result in vibrations. In addition, their
buying price is typically higher than that of brushed DC motors. Their wiring and
operation are complicated since they require a feedback loop and particular electronic
equipment to function. They also lack a commutator and require an electrical
switching controller to change voltage, which means they require certain electronic
equipment to operate. Moreover, their setup becomes more complex since three hall
effect sensors are needed to measure the rotor position. Notwithstanding these
drawbacks, BLDC motors have accurate control and long lifespan, which makes them
useful in a range of applications.

3. Separately Excited DC Motor (SEDC)

a. Construction and working principle

A separately excited DC motor is composed of a stator, brushes and commutator,

field coil/winding, and an armature. This type of motor uses the field coil to generate
a stationary magnetic field that provides additional power to the motor. However
unlike other DC motors, a separately excited DC motors uses separate power sources
 for the field winding and for the armature. The actions and operations carried out by
the field winding current and the armature’s current are independent and do not
interfere with each other. Even so, the total output of the motor is equivalent to the
sum of the power dealt by the two parts. Additionally, because of its field winding
and armature being powered separately, it is possible to control the speed of the motor
precisely by varying the field of excitation.

b. Advantages and disadvantages

Separately excited DC motors have several benefits that allow them to be utilized
and suitable for various applications. Their remarkable ability to regulate speed is a
notable benefit. The motor is perfect for applications that need fine speed regulation
or variable rates since it can perfectly control its speed over a wide range by
separately altering the voltage provided to the field winding. Moreover, individually
excited DC motors usually have great efficiency, especially at higher speeds, which
eventually results in lower running costs and energy savings. They are also more
appealing because of their straightforward design, which makes them easier to
maintain and repair than other kinds of motors. Furthermore, these motors are ideal
for situations where noise levels must be kept to a minimum because of their precise
speed control capabilities, which also enable them to operate quietly and smoothly.

However, apart from the said advantages, separately excited DC motors also come
with their disadvantages. Their control systems' intricacy is one significant flaw.
These motors provide fine speed control, but achieving it frequently necessitates
complex control circuits and other parts, raising the cost and complexity of the system
as a whole. Moreover, the motor system becomes more complex due to the
requirement for a separate power source for the field winding, which also necessitates
the addition of circuitry for control and regulation. It might also be essential to
maintain the field windings and armature, which would increase maintenance
expenses and perhaps cause downtime. Separately excited DC motors might also be
less suitable for some high-demand applications due to their lower overload
capability when compared to other motor types.
4. Permanent Magnet DC Motor (PMDC)

a. Construction and working principle

A permanent magnet DC motor (PMDC) consists of a stator, a rotor, permanent

magnets, armature windings, and commutator and brushes. The stator is the motor's
stationary component that houses the permanent magnets. These said magnets
produce a stationary magnetic field inside the motor. Conversely, the rotor or the
motor's rotating component, is typically composed of an iron lamination-based
cylindrical core. This core is wound with the armature winding, which is then
connected to the commutator. To provide the armature winding with electrical
contact, carbon brushes are pressed up against the commutator segments. In order to
maintain constant rotation in the same direction while the rotor rotates, the
commutator, a split ring attached to the rotor shaft, reverses the direction of current
flow in the armature winding.

The working principle of a PMDC motor heavily relies on the interaction

between the magnetic fields produced by the permanent magnets and the armature
winding. When direct current (DC) power is supplied to the armature winding, it
generates a magnetic field around the rotor. This field interacts with the fixed
magnetic field produced by the permanent magnets on the stator, causing a torque
force which makes the rotor rotate. As the rotor rotates, the commutator segments
make contact with the brushes, which reverses the direction of current flow in the
armature winding. The torque created by the interplay of magnetic fields drives the
rotor in the same direction of rotation because of this reversal of current. The voltage
provided to the armature winding of the PMDC motor can be changed to regulate the
motor's speed. The motor speeds up when the voltage is increased and slows down
when the voltage is decreased.
 b. Advantages and disadvantages

Permanent magnet DC motors are well known for their exceptional efficiency,
which is explained by the lack of field winding and related losses. PMDC motors also
reduce power losses and increase efficiency since they do not require a separate field
winding or related power supply because they generate the magnetic field using
permanent magnets. Furthermore, PMDC motors usually feature a compact,
straightforward form that makes it simple to install and incorporate into various
systems. They are appropriate for uses where weight and space restrictions are
crucial, including in portable devices and automotive systems, because of their small
size and low weight. Additionally, PMDC motors provide accurate speed control and
strong dynamic response, which enable precise speed regulation and placement in a
variety of applications.

In contrast to these advantages, PMDC motors still have their drawbacks. Their
sensitivity to demagnetization, especially at high temperatures or when exposed to
strong external magnetic fields, is a major disadvantage. Demagnetization can lead to
a decrease in motor performance and increase maintenance costs by necessitating the
replacement of the permanent magnets. Furthermore, in comparison to other motor
types, PMDC motors may have a lower torque, which limits their use for applications
needing high starting torque or large loads. The comparatively high cost of permanent
magnets is another disadvantage that may raise the motor's overall cost.

5. Servo DC Motor

a. Construction and working principle

Servo DC motors consist of a Rotor, a Stator, and a Feedback Device. The Rotor
is the one that rotates inside the motor, providing the mechanical energy. The Stator is
the stationary part that is directly involved in running the rotor. Essentially, this is
comparable to a simple DC motor. Some of these have a gearbox that reduces the
maximum rotation speed of the motor, replacing it with higher torque. The Feedback
Device is an additional component that lets the motor know how much it has turned
allowing it to conduct precise control.
 This works by connecting a control circuit that interprets the signal being
outputted by the Feedback device as numerical values for use in controlling how
rotation the motor needs. The control circuit then decides how much power is needed
to be sent to the motor and for how long based on the set specifications of the DC
motor.

b. Advantages and disadvantages

Its advantages are that as explained it can have precise control compared to
regular DC motors. If the motor has a reduction gearbox, then it boasts a very high
torque that allows for better responsiveness and can support higher loads. It also
possesses a wide range of applications, the most famous of which are in robotics.

Its disadvantages are that it’s very complex due to having a control circuit and a
feedback device that requires recalibration once in a while to maintain precision that
can diminish due to extensive use. They also have lower rotation speeds, which is
good for the applications of the servo DC motor but is useless in other fields such as
electric vehicles.

6. Stepper DC Motor

a. Construction and working principle

This motor consists of a Rotor, a Stator, and Drive Electronics. It has similar parts
compared to a simple DC motor with the key difference being that it possesses
specialized electronics that make this simple DC motor act as a stepper motor. The
drive electronics is the one responsible for driving the motor.
 They require power sent in a specific form, mainly a square wave which is then
interpreted to how much rotation is needed. This has a similar function to a servo
motor with a key difference that a stepper motor does not need a gearbox to
compensate for low torque and better precision. Stepper motors can be used as it is by
connecting the shaft to its intended use. This power is then pushed through the coils
which energizes them and causes the rotor to rotate depending on the pulse that it
received.

b. Advantages and disadvantages

Its advantages are that it requires no feedback mechanisms to let the motor know
how much it has turned, resulting in a much simpler construction. Additionally, no
feedback mechanisms mean that it requires less re-calibration due to extensive use.
As explained earlier, the stepper motor does not require a complex gearbox and can
be used directly, which lessens complexity. Its disadvantages are that it offers a low
maximum rotation speed compared to other motors. This of itself is its strength, in its
most used applications but falls short in other areas. This motor tends to consume a
lot of power since it takes energy to hold a position due to magnetizing the coils that
prevent the rotor from being turned. This is amplified depending on how much load it
is carrying.
III. Components of DC Motors

1. Stator – the stator is the stationary main body of the motor that provides support and
protection for the motor. A DC motor field coil is a non-moving part on which winding is
wound to produce a magnetic field. This electromagnet has a cylindrical cavity between
its poles. The stator is responsible for producing a magnetic field that drives the armature
or rotor. It is the static part of the motor that houses the field windings and receives the
electrical supply through its terminals. It is either inside and surrounded by the rotor or
outside enclosing the rotor. It is made up of laminated steel stampings stacked together to
form a magnetic core. In a DC motor, the stator also provides a rotating magnetic field
that drives the armature to rotate. A simple DC motor uses a stationary set of magnets in
the stator, and a coil of wire with a current running through it to generate an
electromagnetic field aligned with the center of the coil.
2. Rotor – rotor comes from the word “rotate” which means that it is the moving or rotating
part of a DC motor. The rotor is responsible for generating mechanical motion in DC
motors. It contains a permanent magnet with two to eight pairs of poles with alternate
south and north poles. The magnetic material for the rotor is carefully chosen in order to
produce the required magnetic field density. The types of magnets for the rotor can either
be ferrite or neodymium where different core configurations are circular with permanent
magnets on the periphery or circular with rectangular magnets. Sometimes, a rotor is also
called the armature or a system of conductors or multiple coils that can rotate freely on
the supporting bearings. The working torque and electromotive force are developed in
coils of the armature. The armature of a DC motor is a cylinder of magnetic laminations
that are insulated from one another. The armature is perpendicular to the axis of the
cylinder. The armature is a rotating part that rotates on its axis and is separated from the
field coil by an air gap. The armature consists of two main parts namely, armature core
and armature winding.
a. Armature core – The armature core is a solid cylindrical structure, made up of
high permeability thin silicon steel laminations. On the outer periphery of the core
slots are cut to carry the armature winding. The armature winding is made up of
copper wires. Armature core is the rotor of a DC motor. It is cylindrical in shape
with slots to carry armature winding. The armature is built up of thin laminated
circular steel disks for reducing eddy current losses.
b. Armature Winding – The armature winding of a DC machine is generally a
former wound, depending upon the end connections of the armature conductors.
It is defined as the conductors which are housed and protected within the armature
slots are connected properly. These windings are arranged in the armature slots.
The helpful electromotive force will be encouraged in this winding which is
received across the brushes.
3. Commutator – A commutator is a rotatory electrical switch that reverses the direction of
current between the rotor and the external circuit periodically. The reversal of the current
each half-turn gives rise to a steady rotating torque. It consists of a cylinder composed of
multiple metal contact segments that are fixed on the rotating armature or rotor of the
machine. The commutator is made of small copper plates that are mounted on the shaft
and rotate as the shaft rotates. The rotation of the rotor causes the poles of the power
supply to the coils to change. Each coil is connected to two commutator plates, which are
electrically isolated from each other but connected by the coils. With positive and
negative terminals connected to two commutator plates, current easily flows and an
electromagnetic field is generated. A commutator ensures that the current flowing
through the rotor windings is always in the same direction, and the proper coil on the
rotor is energized in respect to the field coils.
4. Brushes – The brushes of a DC motor provide the coils with power and are metal pieces
that act like springs. On one side, they have a conductive material made of carbon. On the
other side, they have a pin where the power supply is applied to the motor. The brushes
are pushed by their spring action against the commutator, are held in place by the brush
arms, and are directly connected to the terminals or electrical supply. These brushes
transfer electric current to the armature through physical contact with the commutator. As
soon as the armature coil gets energy or power, it begins to behave like a magnet. They
carry current to the armature wherein the brushes work with the commutator to switch the
current to the proper winding of the armature as it rotates. This creates the correct magnet
fields to make the motor run.

5. Shaft – A shaft is a mechanical section for transforming the rotation and torque. The
windings and the commutator rotate the shaft, which is at the center of the motor and
made of a hardened metal, usually steel, to withstand the loads of the application. The
 commutator bars are attached to the plate that is affixed to the shaft by plastic molding.
The torque that is produced by the winding is transferred to the shaft supported by the
stator. The shaft protrudes through the stator and connects the motor to the application. It
is a cylindrical component that extrudes out from the motor and its housing. The purpose
of the shaft is to convert energy from the motor into the end use application.

6. Terminals – A DC motor has two terminals: positive and negative. When the positive
wire is connected to the positive terminal and the negative wire connected to the negative
terminal, the motor rotates clockwise. When they are reversed, the motor rotates counter
clockwise. The terminals provide the power supply for the motor and are connected to the
brushes and brush arms inside the back cover.

7. Magnets – The magnets used in DC motors are referred to as permanent magnets; this
means their magnetic field is always active. Opposite ends of magnets attract while
similar ends repel. The magnetic field of a magnet runs from the south pole to the north
 pole. The most powerful part of a magnet‘s magnetic field is at its ends. Two magnets
create a very strong field; this is why two magnets are included in a DC motor around the
rotor such that the strong magnetic field passes through the rotor.

8. Field System – The field system is the part of a DC motor which produces the working
magnetic flux in the machine. It is basically a system of electromagnets which is excited
by a DC supply. In the case of a DC machine, the field system is a stationary part of the
machine and it is bolted to the yoke or frame of the machine. There are three main parts
of a field system in dc machines namely pole core, pole shoes, and field coils:
a. Pole core – The pole core is made up of thin steel laminations. One end of the
pole core is bolted to the frame and the other end has a pole shoe. The pole core
basically carries the field winding which is necessary to produce a flux. It directs
the flux produced through the air gap to the armature core, to the next pole.
b. Pole shoe – The pole core ole shoe enlarges the area of the armature core to come
across the flux, which is necessary to produce larger induced emf. To achieve this,
pole shoes have been given a particular shape which is responsible for supporting
the field coils and spreading out flux for better uniformity. The pole shoe is a
projected part of the pole core and has a large area of cross-section. Pole shoes
help in spreading the magnetic flux uniformly in the air gap, and offer a low
reluctance path to the magnetic flux.
c. Coil or Field Windings – The field coil or winding is made up of copper wire.
The field winding is formerly wound and inserted around the pole core. When
field windings are excited by DC supply, they become electromagnets and
produce magnetic flux in the machine. The coil windings are wrapped around the
rotor. The coiling of the wire creates a strong and powerful magnetic field. Every
type of wire creates a weak magnetic field when electricity passes through it. Due
to coiling of the wire, each turned section has the same weak magnetic field.
 When combined with all the different coiled wire, a strong magnetic field is
created. As more coils are added to the rotor, its rotation becomes smoother. All
DC motors have a minimum of three coils to ensure smooth rotation since two
coils tend to jam and stop the motor.

320 × 220

9. Yoke or Frame – yoke refers to the outer frame of a DC Motor which is made up of cast
iron or steel. It not only provides mechanical strength to the whole assembly but also
carries the magnetic flux produced by the field winding. It is made up of such materials
that have high permeability and high mechanical strength. It protects the internal machine
parts like armature, windings, or field poles against mechanical damages. The yoke
houses the magnetic field system providing a low reluctance path to the working
magnetic flux. In addition, it supports the rotor or armature through bearings.
10. Interpole – Interpoles are also known as commutating poles that are designed in DC
motors to overcome the effects of the armature reactance and the self-induction of the
machine and improve the commutation in DC motors. They are similar to the main field
poles and located on the yoke between the main field poles. It has windings that are in
series with armature windings. Interpoles are tapering in shape having a broad base and
less pole shoe area to reduce the extra air gap flux under trailing pole tip.

11. Bearings – The purpose of a bearing in an electric motor is to support and locate the
rotor, to keep the air gap small and consistent and transfer the loads from the shaft to the
motor. The bearings should be able to operate at low and high speeds whilst minimizing
frictional losses.
IV. Examples of DC Motors

1. Diesel Electric Locomotives

In diesel-electric locomotives, an electric generator powers a diesel engine which in turn

generates electricity to power electric motors attached to the wheels and propel the
locomotive to move.These motors are usually AC (alternating current) motors instead of
DC (direct current) motors. However, DC motors may have been utilized in some
auxiliary systems for particular purposes in some earlier diesel-electric locomotives.
2. Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles are cars, bikes, or any other vehicles that use electricity instead of
gasoline or diesel.These vehicles have an electric motor that runs on electricity stored in
batteries. DC motors can be used in electric vehicles (EVs), especially in some models or
parts of the vehicle. Despite the cost-effectiveness and efficiency benefits of AC
(alternating current) motors, which are used in many modern EVs, some EVs still use DC
motors.

3. Cranes

Cranes are big machines used to lift and move heavy objects. It can be used to move
objects at construction sites or raise cargo onto ships using strong cables or hydraulic
systems. DC motors are not usually the primary propulsion motors used in modern crane
systems, though they may be utilized in specific areas of a crane's functioning, such as for
specialist applications or precise control.
4. Toys

Toys that run on DC (direct current) electricity are those that need batteries. These toys
frequently contain tiny battery-operated motors inside of them. DC motors power the
movement of these toys, enabling them to function as mechanical parts, spin propellers,
and drive wheels.

5. Conveyor Motor

A conveyor motor is a type of motor that transports objects from one place to another. It
can be either AC (alternating current) or DC (direct current) motors, depending on the
conveyor system's particular design and requirements. Although AC motors are more
common because of their simplicity, reliability, and affordability, DC motors are
occasionally used for conveyor systems that need variable or precise speed control. As a
 result, even though DC motors may be used in some conveyor systems, it's important to
remember that both AC and DC motors can power conveyor belts.

6. Ceiling Fans

A ceiling fan with a DC motor is an electrical appliance used to move air in a room.
Unlike standard AC motor fans, which run on alternating current (AC), DC motor ceiling
fans convert AC power to direct current (DC), allowing for more economical operation
and more control over speed and airflow. These fans have various advantages, including
lower energy usage, quieter operation, more stylish design alternatives, and advanced
capabilities like remote control and seasonal adjustment settings.

7. Pump Drives

DC motors are usually used as pump drive motors because of their variable speed control
capabilities, adaptability for low-speed operation, simple control system, strong starting
torque, and good transient response. These motors can easily adjust their speed to match
changing flow rate needs, making them excellent for HVAC systems, water circulation,
 and chemical processing. Their strong starting torque assures dependable operation even
under large loads, while their rapid responsiveness to speed and load changes enables
accurate control and enhanced system performance. Brushed, winding field DC motors
have long been the preferred choice for pump applications, but brushless DC motors are
gaining favor due to their increased efficiency and dependability.

8. Elevators

DC motors are crucial components in elevator systems, serving to power the hoisting
mechanism responsible for raising and lowering the elevator car within the shaft. They
come in various types, including series-wound, shunt-wound, and compound-wound
motors, each selected based on specific speed, torque, and efficiency requirements. These
motors are controlled by sophisticated systems that regulate speed, direction, and
stopping of the elevator car, often incorporating feedback mechanisms such as encoders
or tachometers for precise positioning. In modern elevator systems, regenerative braking
is commonly employed, allowing the motor to act as a generator during descent,
converting kinetic energy back into electrical energy for reuse. Regular maintenance is
essential to ensure optimal performance and reliability, including tasks such as
lubrication, inspection of brushes and commutators, and periodic component
replacement.
9. Machine Tools

A machine tool is a type of equipment used for shaping, cutting, grinding, drilling, or
forming metal or other materials. It includes a wide range of devices such as lathes,
milling machines, drills, and grinders. DC servo motors are one type of DC motor used in
machine tools. These motors are commonly used in CNC (Computer Numerical Control)
machines, which demand precise control over tool movement. The DC servo motor
enables precise positioning and speed control, making it suited for a wide range of
machining applications.

10. Motor Starters

A motor starter is a mechanism that regulates the start, stop, and protection of a DC
motor. It usually incorporates a contactor, an overload relay, and control circuitry. A basic
DC motor starter, for example, might have a contactor that shuts to provide power to the
motor, a start button to activate the motor's spin, and an overload relay to protect the
 motor from damage caused by high current. When you push the start button, the contactor
shuts, enabling electricity to travel to the motor, which begins to revolve. If the motor
consumes too much current, indicating an overload problem, the overload relay will trip
and turn off power to the motor, avoiding harm.

V. Advantages of DC Motors

1. Startup Torque

Startup torque is very significant in a lot of mechanical systems. It provides the

minimum torque needed to initiate movement in the mechanical system from stationary.
Hence, having a faulty startup torque can cause a chain reaction of damages within a
mechanical system because the mechanisms of such a system usually operate
sequentially. Faulty startup torque could also lead to hazards if not taken seriously.

This is where DC motors have the advantage. DC motors is known for having
high startup torque. Therefore, applications that require burst and instantaneous torque
such as Electric Vehicles (acceleration) and Robotics (precision) would be a great fit for
DC motors.

2. Linear Speed Torque

DC motors generate an exceptional speed to torque relationship that is more linear

than other motors. Linear speed torque is an ideal characteristic of motors in which the
curve between torque and speed exhibits a linear relationship.
 Therefore, DC motors are advantageous in applications that involve constant
torque loads such as in conveyor systems; and constant flow rate such as in pumps and
fans, which all require a linear speed and torque relationship for stable operations

3. No Harmonic Effects

Harmonic effects degrade a lot of electrical and mechanical components and

machinery. Worst case scenario, it causes safety problems. When harmonic effects exist,
components suffer from wear, fatigue, and thermal effects, which lead to reduced
performance and efficiency.

Since DC motors do not exhibit harmonic distortion, they are advantageous in

applications in which the presence of harmonics can be detrimental, such as in precision
machinery and medical devices.

4. Speed Control

The speed of DC motors are easy to monitor and control. This is why DC motors
are very advantageous in applications where accurate and precise speed control ensures
the success of the job, such as working with electric motors, heavy load systems, HVAC
systems, robotics, and 3D printers.

5. Installation

Installation of DC motors requires fewer mechanical and electrical adjustments.

DC motors can also be used immediately by giving it electricity directly from the power
source. Furthermore, DC motors are generally much safer to operate than AC motors.

6. Maintenance

DC motors have been around for over 130 years. And in all these years, DC
motors have been simplified to designs that are simple and easy to repair or replace to
more complex intricate designs with sophisticated functions. Most electricians and
technicians are also more familiar with DC motors than AC motors, which makes
maintenance easily accessible and advantageous.

7. Low Cost

DC motors are generally more affordable than AC motors. Due to this, DC motors
are great for learning the fundamental working principles involved in DC and AC motors
 since you can buy and study them repeatedly. DC motors are also great for prototyping
concepts and improvements in both mechanical and electrical systems.

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