DC Motors Key Terms

Expand your knowledge of DC motors by learning about key terms and concepts

By Christine Foley

Direct current motors, also referred to as DC motors, are able to be used in a variety of situations and environments. Not all DC motors are capable of accomplishing the same tasks or objectives, which makes it even more important that individuals and businesses which would benefit from the assistance of DC motors become familiar with DC motors key terms and concepts with respect to their applications. In order to work in a beneficial, functional and productive manner, the right direct current motors need to be matched to the proper jobs and objectives.

Voltage

Voltage, when used in the context of direct current motors, is a term used to measure the amount of electromotive force. This, when applied to the DC motors conductors, will go on to produce a current, allowing the motor to run and operate.
Try: Voltage, as it is functional for DC motors, is discussed at SocietyofRobots.com. The site also discusses the fact that DC motors have a voltage rating related to the amount at which they most efficiently run.

Commutator

The commutator is a part of the direct current motor armature. Commutators allow for the electrical current in the motor to be switched to different armature windings. The proper sequence of this switching results in the creation of motor torque. Additionally, commutators allow for the transmission of the electrical current to the moving armature. This is done through the brushes that ride on the commutator.
Try: Information about commutators is revealed at Electronics-Manufacturers.com.

Brush

A brush in a DC motor is the current conducting material. These are often made of graphite or a combination of graphite and some other material advantageous to the conduction of current in DC motors. Brushes also form an electrical connection which stems from the motor's armature to the power source.
Try: Brushes and commutators as utilized in DC motors are both explained and illustrated at GSU.edu.

Field

The field is a stationary part found in DC motors. They are commonly made up of permanent magnets placed inside the motor at strategic locations.
Try: Magnetic fields of DC motors are explored more in-depth at FSU.edu.

Armature

An armature is the rotating part DC motors, which rely on a brush to conduct currents.
Try: NI.com offers a detailed explanation of armatures in DC motors.

Direct current

A DC motor relies on a direct current in order to function. This is the power supply made available to the motor through the use or application or batteries, generators or some other rectified source utilized for special purposes and applications.
Try: For additional information on what a direct current is, how it is useful and what it can do, visit NDT-ED.org and GreenFacts.org.