Learn about the most important features and operating principles of direct current motors in this engineering course.

In this course, you will learn how to use a DC (direct current) motor, an electrical machine that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. The basic working principles of such a motor and the differences between DC generators and DC motors will be explained. Learn how to identify the terminals of a DC compound engine. Over time, the manufacturer's information on the terminals can fade so we will cover how to perform continuity tests and the basics of identifying the six terminals on a DC compound motor.

Do you know there are different types of DC motors? This course explains three different types and their characteristics. Shunt motors are mainly used to drive constant speed shafts, lathes, centrifugal pumps, machine tools, blowers, fans and piston pumps, etc. In addition, learn how DC series motors are used to drive electric locomotives, mass transit systems, trolleys, automobiles, cranes, hoists and conveyors, etc. We will also study how a two-point starter for series motors and a three-point starter for shunt motors work. The resistance start method is the basic principle of both types of motors. Want to know how to calculate the voltage, speed-torque, and the feedback EMF? These calculations are broken down with graphs and diagrams. In order to use the motor for various purposes, the speed of the motor needs to be controlled so the methods for doing so are also explained in detail.

Want to know how to reverse the direction of rotation of a DC shunt motor? The material shows you how to control the speed of a DC shunt motor using the flux control method and a variable resistor in series with the motor. The speed of a DC shunt motor can be controlled using the various control methods unpacked in the modules. By the end, you will know more about DC motors and have taken a big step towards understanding one of the most important electrical machines that power the industrial world.