Electric Motors: Power, Size & Superconductors

In summary, electrical motors have more power per weight than piston engines, meaning a 100 KG electric motor would make more power than a 100 KG piston engine. The size of the motor would depend on the type, as large AC, DC, small, and stepper motors all have different characteristics. For mobile applications, AC and DC motors can deliver a lot of torque, but require a lot of electrical current and large batteries. For static applications, motors can provide more control and do not require regular fuel top-ups. Additionally, with room temperature superconductors, the motor would produce no heat and could potentially see an increase in power. However, the type of motor and application would also factor into the overall design and use of the motor.
  • #1
Gara
152
0
i hear electrical moters have more power per weight than piston engines.

such as, a 100 KG electric motor would make more power than a 100 KG piston engine.

what about size, would it be smaller/no differnt/bigger in size?

and asuming we had room temp superconductors, the motor would make no heat, right? what kind of power increse would we gain from that?
 
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  • #2
What type of motor are you referring to, large AC, a DC motor, small motors or Stepper type motors. They all have different characteristics.

What is your application? AC and DC motors can deliver a lot of torque for their size, but remember for mobile applications, they require a lot of electrical current, and so usually large batteries are required (for DC designs, or with inverters for AC designs.) This adds a lot of weight to the design and the batteries need replenished some how (you need to charge them every so often.)

For static applications, motors can provide more control than IC engines, and can be powered from the mains supply, and so do not need a regular fuel top-up.

Active braking can also be achieved with electrical motors for applications where the drive needs to stop quickly.
 
  • #3


You are correct, electric motors do have more power per weight than piston engines. This is due to their efficient use of energy and lack of moving parts, which allows for a higher power-to-weight ratio. A 100 KG electric motor would indeed make more power than a 100 KG piston engine.

In terms of size, electric motors can be smaller, larger, or the same size as piston engines, depending on the specific design and application. In general, electric motors tend to be more compact and have a higher power density compared to piston engines.

If we were to have room temperature superconductors, the motor would indeed make no heat as there would be no resistance in the circuit. This would result in a significant increase in power output as there would be no energy loss due to heat dissipation. However, it is important to note that room temperature superconductors are still a theoretical concept and have not been achieved yet. But, if and when they are, it would revolutionize the field of electric motors and lead to even more efficient and powerful designs.
 

1. What is an electric motor?

An electric motor is a device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. It typically consists of a stationary part, called the stator, and a rotating part, called the rotor. The interaction between the stator and the rotor creates a magnetic field, which produces the rotational motion of the motor.

2. How is the power of an electric motor measured?

The power of an electric motor is measured in watts (W) or horsepower (hp). It represents the rate at which the motor can convert electrical energy into mechanical energy. The power output of a motor is dependent on its design and can range from a few watts in small motors to several megawatts in large industrial motors.

3. Does the size of an electric motor affect its power?

Yes, the size of an electric motor can affect its power output. Generally, larger motors have a higher power output compared to smaller motors. This is because larger motors have more space to accommodate larger stator and rotor components, which can produce a stronger magnetic field and thus a more powerful motor.

4. What is the role of superconductors in electric motors?

Superconductors are materials that can conduct electricity with zero resistance when cooled below a certain temperature. In electric motors, superconductors can be used in the stator and rotor to reduce energy loss and increase efficiency. This can lead to more powerful and compact motors, as well as lower energy consumption.

5. What are the advantages of using electric motors?

There are several advantages of using electric motors, including their high efficiency, low maintenance requirements, and eco-friendliness. They also offer precise control and can be easily integrated into automated systems. Additionally, electric motors can be powered by various sources, such as renewable energy, making them a sustainable option for many applications.

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