OUTLINE (EEQUIP)

I. DC Motor Drives

a. What are DC motor drives?

b. Principle of DC motor drives
c. Classification of DC motor drives
d. Example of DC Motor Drives
e. Braking of DC Motor Drives
f. Speed Control Methods of DC Motor Drives
g. Application of DC Motor Drives
h. Advantage and Disadvantage over AC Motor Drive

DC Motor Drive

– DC drive is basically a DC motor speed control system that supplies the voltage to the motor to
operate at desired speed. A variable DC voltage for the speed control of an industrial DC motor
is generated by a DC generator.

– The DC motor drive is a type of amplifier or power modulator that integrate between the
controller and a DC motor. It takes the low current and then converts it into a high current
which is appropriate for the motor. The DC motor drive also provides the high current torque,
400 % more than the rated continuous torque.

Principle of DC Motor Drive

– In DC motors, the speed is proportional to the armature voltage and inversely proportional to
the field current. And, the armature current is proportional to the motor torque. Therefore, by
increasing or reducing the applied voltage, the speed of the motor is varied. However, it is
possible up to the rated voltage. If the speed greater than the base speed is required, the field
current of the motor must be reduced.

– By reducing the field current, the flux in the motor reduces. The reduction of field current
reduces the armature counter emf. The more armature current flows if there is less counter
armature emf. Further, this armature current increases the motor torque and hence the speed.
These are the two basic principles employed in DC drives to control the speed of the motor.

Classification of DC Motor Drive

1. Non-regenerative DC Drives
– Most conventional type and basic type of drive that is commonly used. The control
motor speed and the torque are in one direction. Certain additional components like
magnetic armature reversing contactor are provided to enhance the capability of the
drive.

2. Regenerative DC Drives
– It is an adjustable speed drives, also known as four-quadrant drives can control not only
the speed and direction of motor rotation, but also the direction of motor torque.
 3. Brushless DC Drives
– A drive that is frequently being used, a brushless drive does not contain a brush. The
motor contains permanent magnets, the size of the magnets determines the horse
power capabilities of the motor.

Examples of DC Motor Drives