Control Electric Motor Velocity on a Budget

In summary, the conversation discussed ways to control the velocity of an electric motor. The options mentioned were a permanent magnet DC motor, a resistor, a switching circuit, and a frequency inverter. A permanent magnet DC motor with brushes was recommended as a simple and cheap option, while a switching circuit using PWM was suggested as the most effective method. The conversation also mentioned using a variable voltage power supply or a frequency inverter, although these options may not be as cheap.
  • #1
burak
4
0
Hello,
Can anyone tell me what is the simpliest and cheapest method to control of velocity of an electric motor?
or what kind of motor to use to reach such a control?
 
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  • #2
Pick 2 of 3: Simple, cheap, effective

A permanent magnet DC motor with brushes is a good choice for motor type.

A resistor is simple and cheap but difficult to control because the power falls off exponentially as you increase the resistance. A variable resistor like a rheostat/potentiometer would allow you to control it over a range.

A switching circuit would be the most effective (especially with feedback) but this is not as simple nor cheap as a resistor. By using the concept of PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and sending pulses of certain lengths to the motor the circuit can control the average amount of current in the coils and thus control the speed/power much more effectively.

Cliff
 
  • #3
You could also try using a variable voltage power supply on the motor.

As long as it can handle the maximum necessary current at the highest voltage rating for the motor, it should work just fine.

Here's a bunch of useful circuits.

http://www.commlinx.com.au/power.htm
 
  • #4
to control the speed of electric motor is a frequency inverter...it may not be the cheaper but it is more reliable and easy to use...
 

1. How can I control the velocity of an electric motor on a budget?

One budget-friendly option is to use a pulse width modulation (PWM) controller. This device can vary the amount of power delivered to the motor, allowing you to adjust the speed. Another option is to use a variable frequency drive (VFD), which can also control the motor's speed by adjusting the frequency of the power supply.

2. Can I use a microcontroller to control the motor's velocity?

Yes, a microcontroller can be programmed to control the speed of an electric motor. You will need to use a motor controller circuit and write the appropriate code to control the motor's speed. However, this may require some knowledge of programming and electronics.

3. Are there any DIY methods for controlling motor velocity on a budget?

Yes, there are several DIY methods for controlling motor velocity on a budget. You can use a potentiometer, which is a variable resistor, to manually adjust the motor's speed. Another option is to use a series of resistors and switches to create a multi-speed control system.

4. What are the limitations of controlling motor velocity on a budget?

One limitation is that budget-friendly methods may not offer precise or smooth control over the motor's speed. They may also have a limited range of speeds that can be achieved. Additionally, these methods may not be suitable for high-powered or industrial motors.

5. Can I still achieve precise control over the motor's velocity with a budget-friendly method?

Yes, you can achieve precise control over the motor's velocity with budget-friendly methods, but it may require some trial and error. You may also need to fine-tune the control system to get the desired speed. Alternatively, you can invest in a more expensive motor controller for more precise control.

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