DC electric motors having been gaining in popularity for a myriad of reasons, and the market is expected to be worth USD$201.43 billion by 2030. Not only do they offer many advantages over other types of motors, they also have a multitude of applications which align with the rising demand for more environmentally friendly alternative technologies.
DC electric motors can now be found in almost every industry from HVAC equipment, industrial machinery, aerospace, transportation, robotics, electronics, and home appliances.
There are 2 main types of DC electric motors, brushed and brushless and Electric Motor Power carries a wide range of both in varying configurations. So, if you have been debating whether your project is suitable for electrification and if a brushed or brushless DC electric motor is the right choice for your application, we have highlighted some of the compelling advantages of why DC electric motors are well worth considering.
What is a DC Electric Motor?
DC motors primarily convert direct current electrical energy, such as a battery source, into mechanical rotational energy. You can also use these motors in reverse by rotating the motor shaft to create DC electrical power which turns the device function into a generator.
Applications for DC Electric Motors
Electric DC motors are used in a wide range of industries and devices thanks to their simplicity, reliability, and controllability. Some common applications include:
Automotive Systems: Electric DC motors are used in various automotive applications, such as power windows, windshield wipers, and electric fans.
Consumer Electronics: Devices like hairdryers, vacuum cleaners, and power tools often utilise DC motors for their compact size and efficient operation.
Industrial Machinery: DC electric motors are a popular choice in various industrial applications, such as conveyor systems, material handling equipment, and industrial automation.
Household Appliances: Many household appliances, including blenders, mixers, and electric shavers, use DC electric motors for their small size and precise speed control.
Robotics: DC electric motors are commonly used in robotics across a range of industries and applications.
Aerospace: DC electric motors can be found in certain aerospace machinery, such as actuating control surfaces on aircraft as well as drones and vertical take off & landing (VTOL) craft.
Medical Devices: Some medical devices, like infusion pumps and dental tools, use DC electric motors for their compact design and accurate control.
Renewable Energy: Electric DC motors are commonly found in small-scale renewable energy systems, such as wind turbines and solar tracking systems.
Toys: Many toys, including remote-controlled cars and drones, use Electric DC motors for propulsion and movement.
Computer Hardware: Electric DC motors can be found in computer hardware, such as disk drives and cooling fans.
Advantages of DC Electric Motors
Total control
One of the main advantages of these motors is their simplicity in design and operation. DC electric motors operate using direct current hence the (DC), which means they have a constant and steady flow of electrical energy. This allows for precise control of both the motor speed and torque.
DC electric motors provide precise speed control, making them ideal for applications where speed variation is critical. By changing the armature or field voltage, it's possible to achieve wide speed variation and with this level of controllability, DC motors offer the precision required by a wide range of industry applications
Speed and Power
Another benefit of considering DC electric motors is they are ideal for applications that require quick acceleration or heavy loads to be moved and because of this, they are the perfect solution for a multitude of industries and applications.
Efficiency
DC electric motors are also revered for their efficiency, as they convert electrical energy into mechanical energy with minimal losses, resulting in higher overall efficiency compared to traditional types of motors.
Flexibility
DC electric motors are extremely flexible in their applications. Firstly, they are available in many different sizes and voltages, which means you can optimise the motor for your project.
They also offer flexibility in terms of speed control and being able to adjust the voltage or current supplied to the motor, the speed can also be easily regulated to meet the specific requirements of your application.
High Power Density
DC electric motors are known for high-power density due to their magnet utilisation, which empowers the required flux and results in smaller physical size compared to traditional AC motors.
Reliability and Durability
Additionally, DC electric motors are highly reliable, durable and great for applications which require continuous operation, where adjustable speed and constant or low-speed torque are required. They also work well in dynamic braking and reversing applications, which are common in many industrial machines.
A Greener Choice
DC electric motors work on electrical energy supplied by rechargeable batteries, they do not emit pollutants, such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, that contribute to pollution and have adverse effects on our environment.
Simplicity, efficiency, reliability, durability, and flexible speed control, are all features that are making DC electric motors the preferred choice in many industries and applications where precise control, reliable performance and greener solutions are essential.
Electric Motor Power’s team of experts can assist you in finding the right brushed or brushless DC electric motor for your project. We have hundreds of standard models, but also provide a bespoke service to customise your perfect electric motor. Contact us to find out more.