DC motors combined to increase volts?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the possibility of increasing voltage by combining two DC motors, with a focus on the theoretical and practical implications of such a configuration. Participants explore the differences between series and parallel arrangements, as well as the distinction between motors and generators.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether it is possible to increase voltage by combining two DC motors, noting that series circuits do not work for this purpose.
  • Another participant clarifies that DC motors consume power rather than generate it, suggesting a misunderstanding of the initial question.
  • A different viewpoint suggests that while DC motors can be connected in series, they typically require mechanical gearing to balance loads, which may complicate the output.
  • One participant later specifies that if the motors are treated as generators, connecting them in series could theoretically increase output voltage, although practicality is uncertain.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether DC motors can be used to increase voltage, with some suggesting that only generators can achieve this when connected in series. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the feasibility and practicality of the proposed configurations.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in understanding the distinction between motors and generators in this context, as well as the implications of mechanical torque versus electrical output. The discussion also reflects uncertainty about the practical application of connecting motors in series.

dvn
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Hello all,

I was wondering if it is possible to increase voltage if you combine 2 DC motors together?

I know that it is NOT possible to increase the voltage if you put it into a series circuit since it won't work. As for the batteries you can increase the volts if you put them into the series circuit and can increase the batteries amp if you put them into parellel circuits.

I was wondering if there are any ways to get the volts increase using 2 dc motors? Like I have 2 x 12V dc motors and I would like to try to get it 24v (please disregard the fiction transfer losses etc).

The other question I have is...
If the dc motors can't increase the motors combined but it can increase the amps when you put them into the parallel circuit and I was wondering if it is possible to transfer the amps into voltage?

Thanks David
 
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dvn said:
Hello all,

I was wondering if it is possible to increase voltage if you combine 2 DC motors together?

I know that it is NOT possible to increase the voltage if you put it into a series circuit since it won't work. As for the batteries you can increase the volts if you put them into the series circuit and can increase the batteries amp if you put them into parellel circuits.

I was wondering if there are any ways to get the volts increase using 2 dc motors? Like I have 2 x 12V dc motors and I would like to try to get it 24v (please disregard the fiction transfer losses etc).

The other question I have is...
If the dc motors can't increase the motors combined but it can increase the amps when you put them into the parallel circuit and I was wondering if it is possible to transfer the amps into voltage?

Thanks David

I don't understand what you are asking...perhaps you could re-phrase it. DC motors consume power not generate it.

CS
 
You can hook up 2 or more dc motors in series, but usually their outputs are combined via some type of gearing, and typically one motor will carry a bit more load than the others due to imbalance between the motors. Perhaps as temperature increases in the higher load motor, so does the resistance of the windings in the higher load motor, so the loads somewhat balance out, although the temperatures don't.
 
Sorry, I should've said that the 2 dc motors combined are driven by mechanical torque and doesn't receive any power but to create power. I wanted to know if there are any ways to get 24v using 2 dc motors or not?
 
Then you are talking about a pair of dc generators...yes, in general putting them in series will of course boost output voltage...I'm unsure how practical that would be.
 

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