It is a type of electromotor that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. Usually, the most common types of DC motors operate by using forces created by magnetic fields that comes from the electric currents to prompt rotation of a rotor secured with an output shaft.
A typical brushed DC motor comprises a rotor, an armature, a stator and a commutator with brushes. This machinery uses opposite polarity between the electromagnet’s like and unlike poles to keep the central rotor turning.
Different Types Of Brushed DC Motors
Series Wound
This type of brushed DC motor has the field winding connected in series with rotor rewinding while the speed control is by altering the supply voltage.
It delivers a high starting-torque as their magnetic field functions below saturation, and an increase in load will naturally result in an increase in both field current and armature. Due to its high starting-torque, it is mostly used in hoists, cranes, automotive and cranes.
Shunt Wound
The shunt wound motor only has one voltage supply, while the field winding is connected in a parallel position with the rotor winding and it has the capability to deliver increased torque, without slowing down the speed by having an increase in the motor current.
With constant speed and medium level of starting torque, it is best suited for vacuum cleaners, lathes, grinders and conveyers.
Compound Wound
It is a cumulative of a shunt motor and series motor as the shunt field is wired in parallel alike polarity in parallel with the magnetic field, giving aid to the armature field and series field.
With great speed regulation at high speeds and high starting torque, the best applications for this motor consists of circular shaws, driving compressors, shearing machines and continuous conveyors.
Permanent Magnet
Instead of winding in the field or using an electromagnet, a permanent magnet is used to build the magnetic field that is needed for the operation of the motor. Due its fixed magnetic field strength, it is unable to be controlled externally.
As a result, a permanent magnet motor is usually used in servo systems and robotics because of its low torque and precise control.
Advantages
Low-cost
Compared to brushless motors, brushed motors generally come at a much lower cost as they do not require a lot of wires and only uses brushes to operate. As a result, they are the more economical option for most businesses as they are cheaper to produce.
Brushes can be rebuilt to extend life
Though it is only applicable to certain motors, brushes can be replaced or rebuilt to extend the motor’s lifespan. The only issue is that it requires long-term supervision as brushes that have worn out can be very dangerous. In a worst case scenario, electric motor rewinds will need to be done by a hired professional to avoid any accidents.
Suited for extreme operating environments
Due to the fact that no onboard electronics is required for a brushed DC motor, it can typically tolerate extreme operating environments. As long as the brushes have been properly chosen and maintained, these motors can even last for quite some time.
Simple to understand and use
Its simple and cheap drive design makes it relatively easy for anyone to understand as a basic brushed DC motor only requires two wires, between the motor and power source. In other words, it also saves up space that would usually be used for connectors and wiring tight situations, reducing costs on cables and connectors.
Knowing how a DC motor works is really important if you want to sustain its machine life. But when it does encounter any sort of failure of malfunction, you might need to do electric motor overhauling to check the health condition of your equipment. If its in tip-top condition, that is good news for you. But if its not, then its time to go for schedule a repair or go for an entire replacement.