How does a DC motor work without a commutator?

In summary, the DC motor can work without a commutator because the rotor is repelled and attracted by the same force, neutralizing each other and allowing the motor to continue spinning. The initial force given to the motor is what determines its movement, and the commutator function is accomplished through this force. This has been demonstrated through videos and personal experiments.
  • #1
Oti
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How can this DC motor work without a commutator. Should it not turn no more than once and then stop because on one side the rotor is attracted to the magnet?

An answer I can think of is that the rotor is repelled on one side and attracted on the other by the same force which neutralize each other so what counts is the force you give it in the beginning when you spin it with your hand. Or is it the momentum that gets it over the being attracted part of the circle? What do you think?

It works very well. There are many videos and I tried it myself.
simple%20motor.jpg
 
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  • #2
That motor does have a commutator of sorts. I'm guessing when you tried it, it didn't work.

If you had actually built this, and it worked, you'd know how the commutators function is accomplished.
 
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1. What is a DC motor?

A DC motor is an electrical machine that converts direct current (DC) electrical energy into mechanical energy. It is commonly used in a variety of devices, including electric vehicles, power tools, and household appliances.

2. How does a DC motor work?

A DC motor works by using the principle of electromagnetism. It consists of a stator, which is a stationary part, and a rotor, which is a rotating part. When an electrical current is passed through the stator, it creates a magnetic field. This magnetic field interacts with the magnetic field of the rotor, causing it to rotate.

3. What are the components of a DC motor?

The main components of a DC motor include the stator, rotor, commutator, and brushes. The stator is made up of permanent magnets or electromagnets and provides the stationary magnetic field. The rotor, which is connected to the shaft, has conductors that are perpendicular to the stator's magnetic field. The commutator and brushes work together to switch the direction of the current flow in the rotor, allowing for continuous rotation.

4. What are the advantages of using a DC motor?

DC motors have several advantages, including high efficiency, precise speed control, and high starting torque. They are also compact, reliable, and have a long lifespan. Additionally, DC motors can operate at both high and low speeds, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.

5. What are the different types of DC motors?

There are three main types of DC motors: brushed, brushless, and stepper. Brushed DC motors use a commutator and brushes to switch the direction of the current, while brushless DC motors use electronic commutation. Stepper motors use a series of electromagnets to rotate the rotor in small, precise steps. Each type has its own advantages and is suitable for different applications.

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