Motor resistance value isn't correct

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the incorrect resistance reading of an electric motor, which shows 1.2 Ohms on the ohmmeter, while calculations suggest it should be around 16.23 Ohms based on a 0.12 A draw from a 2.76V source. Participants explain that motors generate "back EMF" when running, which affects current draw and resistance readings. The low resistance reading could indicate a measurement error, possibly due to poor contact with the probes. It is emphasized that stalling the motor can lead to excessive current draw, potentially damaging it. Understanding these concepts is crucial for anyone learning about motor operation and electrical measurements.
Flyingwing12
Messages
41
Reaction score
0
Motor resistance value isn't correct...

I have an electric motor that registers a .12 A draw off of a 2.76V source. This obviously indicates to you and me a resistance of 16.23 Ohms.

The problem is my Ohmmeter function on the MM. It reads out 1.2 between the motor leads, and this arithmetically can't be so.

There was a split second when the ohmmeter spiked to about 16.3 Ohms, but only for a split second, and then fell back to 1.2 Ohms.

Any advice to as why the meter is showing this impossible reading? ( OK, not impossible, but you get the idea.)
 
Last edited:
Engineering news on Phys.org


A motor is not a resistor and therefore it does not follow the V = RI.

Google "back emf"
 


The motor needs to be running for it to take only 0.12A at 2.76V. When it is stalled, it can pass much more current (and can burn out).
 


uart said:
A motor is not a resistor and therefore it does not follow the V = RI.

Google "back emf"

Ohhh. I see. So the reading I am getting is commutator touching the coils of wire?

I am a spring chicken when it comes to electronics. I am currently taking an AC/DC course at my technical school. So excuse my Newbie sense of direction.
 


I have an electric motor that registers a .12 A draw off of a 2.76V source. This obviously indicates to you and me a resistance of 16.23 Ohms.

I get 23 ohms for this.

Anyway, the motor generates "back EMF" when it is turning and this opposes the supply voltage to reduce the supply current.

If the figure of 1.2 ohms was correct, the motor would draw 2.3 amps when it was not turning. ( 2.76 volts / 1.2 ohms = 2.3 amps). This is why it is not a good idea to stall an electric motor.
 


Hmm, I think the reason the reading spiked to 16.3 ohm for a brief period is your probes were not touching the terminals properly. It may be caused by a jerk while taking reading.
 


vk6kro said:
I have an electric motor that registers a .12 A draw off of a 2.76V source. This obviously indicates to you and me a resistance of 16.23 Ohms.

I get 23 ohms for this.

Anyway, the motor generates "back EMF" when it is turning and this opposes the supply voltage to reduce the supply current.

If the figure of 1.2 ohms was correct, the motor would draw 2.3 amps when it was not turning. ( 2.76 volts / 1.2 ohms = 2.3 amps). This is why it is not a good idea to stall an electric motor.

I meant a current of .170 A
 
Back
Top