Function of Commutator: Reversing Electric Current

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the function of the split in a commutator and its role in reversing electric current in motors and generators. Participants explore the mechanics of how the commutator operates during the current cycle, addressing both theoretical and conceptual aspects of its design and function.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the split in the commutator temporarily separates the flow of electrons between the coil and the external circuit, which is essential for reversing the current.
  • Another participant states that the primary function of the split is to switch polarity, noting that when the split passes the contacts, there is no voltage difference due to the wires moving in the direction of the magnetic field.
  • A participant expresses uncertainty about their understanding of the concept and questions whether the absence of a split would lead to alternating current.
  • Another participant clarifies that without the split, the current would flow through the commutator instead of the loop or external load, implying that the split is necessary for proper current direction.
  • One participant mentions that without the separation provided by the split, it could lead to a short-circuit situation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding regarding the function of the split in the commutator. While some agree on its role in switching polarity and preventing short circuits, others remain uncertain about the implications of having or not having a split.

Contextual Notes

Some participants' statements reflect assumptions about the behavior of current in relation to the commutator's design, but these assumptions are not universally accepted or clarified, leaving some aspects of the discussion unresolved.

heavystray
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Hi, so i want to ask what's the function of the split between the commutator?

my guess is to temporarily separate the opposite electrons flow between the coil and external circuit after the half cycle? so that's why the current is reversed? please i really need someone to explain how the commutator reverse the current if it's wrong. thanks in advance
 
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Hello Stray, welcome to PF :smile: !

See here. Function is to switch polarity.
In first order the moment the split passes the contacts, there is no voltage difference anyway because the wires that generate the emf are moving in the direction of the magnetic field (no component perpendicular to the field).
 
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BvU said:
Hello Stray, welcome to PF :smile: !

See here. Function is to switch polarity.
In first order the moment the split passes the contacts, there is no voltage difference anyway because the wires that generate the emf are moving in the direction of the magnetic field (no component perpendicular to the field).
hey thanks for the reply, so my guess is wrong? I'm so sorry i just can't seem to grasp the concept yet. so, i think i understand quite well what the commutator does, but why there is a need of having the split? oh my god I'm so sorry. so if the commutator doesn't have the split, the current induced would alternate? ughh
 
If there's no split, the current goes through the commutator and not through the loop (for a motor) or the external load (for a generator) :smile: .

(Actually, in both cases the current goes through both ... :rolleyes: )
 
BvU said:
If there's no split, the current goes through the commutator and not through the loop (for a motor) or the external load (for a generator) :smile: .

(Actually, in both cases the current goes through both ... :rolleyes: )

so you're saying the split function is to separate the current from flowing to the 'other side' of the commutator back? anyway thank u so much for replying! :DD
 
Last edited:
BvU said:
If there's no split, the current goes through the commutator and not through the loop (for a motor) or the external load (for a generator) :smile: .

(Actually, in both cases the current goes through both ... :rolleyes: )
hey, i think I've understand it now! if there's no separation between the ring, the current will not be reversed right?
 
Yas, and it will be a short-circuit situation, too...
 
BvU said:
Yas, and it will be a short-circuit situation, too...
ohhh thank u very much for the help!
 

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