Why doesn’t my electric motor work?

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SUMMARY

The discussion identifies critical issues with an electric motor's design, specifically noting that the metallic axle is likely shorting the copper wires, which impairs functionality. The rotor is underwhelming with very few turns, whereas a minimum of hundreds is recommended for effective operation. Additionally, the absence of a ferromagnetic core in the rotor windings is highlighted as a significant flaw, as it would enhance magnetic flux concentration and provide flywheel action. Recommendations include using smaller diameter wire (30 gauge) and increasing the number of turns in each pole winding to at least 100 for improved performance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electric motor components and their functions
  • Knowledge of winding techniques for rotor construction
  • Familiarity with electrical resistance and its impact on performance
  • Basic principles of magnetism and ferromagnetic materials
NEXT STEPS
  • Research effective winding techniques for electric motors
  • Learn about the impact of internal resistance in batteries on motor performance
  • Explore the use of ferromagnetic cores in electric motor design
  • Investigate the effects of wire gauge on electrical resistance and motor efficiency
USEFUL FOR

Electronics hobbyists, engineers designing electric motors, and anyone interested in improving motor efficiency and performance.

grade11studentgoaat
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Based on your photo, a few observations are possible. First, your axle is metallic, likely shorting out the copper wires leading to your rotor as well as the wires from the battery. Second, your rotor seems to have very few turns. I would expect to see hundreds (or more!). Third, you do not appear to have wound your rotor windings around a ferromagnetic core, such as a steel bolt, that would concentrate magnetic flux and improve chances of operation. It would also give you a flywheel action that would tend to keep the motor spinning once it was started. You can provide us with additional information as we proceed.
 
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i will try out what you said. thank you for your feedback!!!
 
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Also, those 6 volt lantern batteries have internal resistance about 1 ohm. The small amount of wire in the winding has very low resistance, so the battery voltage will drop to near zero when running this motor. Try using smaller diameter wire, say about 30 gauge, and at least 100 turns in each pole winding. More turns would be even better. And that 9 volt battery on your table is even worse because the internal resistance is much higher.
 
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