BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

Module-1
DC Motors: Construction and working principle. Back EMF and its significance. Torque equation,
Classification. Characteristics of shunt, series & compound motors, speed control shunt
Application 0f motors.
Losses and Efficiency: Losses in DC motors power flow diagram. efficiency, condition for
maximum efficiency.
Testing of DC Motors: Direct & indirect method of testing of motors- Swinburne's test, Field's test,
merits and demerits of tests. (numerical as applicable)

Introduction: A motor is an electrical device that converts electrical energy into mechanical
energy. It utilizes the principles of electromagnetism to generate rotational motion, causing a physical
output or mechanical work. Motors are commonly used in various applications, such as machinery,
vehicles, appliances, and industrial processes.
On the other hand, a motor is an electrical device that converts mechanical energy into electrical
energy. It operates based on the principle of electromagnetic induction, where a rotating shaft or
mechanism drives a conductor through a magnetic field, resulting in the production of electrical
power. Motors are essential for generating electricity in power plants, backup systems, and portable
devices like motors for camping or emergencies.
While alternating current is the standard for most applications, there are specialized cases where
converting AC power to DC power is advantageous. D.C. motors offer significant advantages, such
as better speed/torque characteristics, making them an ideal option for certain settings like steel mills,
mines, and electric trains. For businesses requiring industrial drives, they are nearly as popular as
their 3-phase induction counterparts.

Construction of DC Motor:

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 1

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

The above figure shows the constructional details of a simple 4-pole DC machine. A DC machine
consists of two basic parts; stator and rotor. The basic constructional parts of a DC machine are
described below.
1. Yoke: The outer frame of a dc machine is called a yoke. It is made of cast iron or steel. It not
only provides mechanical strength to the whole assembly but also carries the magnetic flux
produced by the field winding.
2. Poles and pole shoes: Poles are joined to the yoke with the help of bolts or welding. They
carry field winding and pole shoes are fastened to them. Pole shoes serve two purposes; (i)
they support field coils and (ii) spread out the flux in the air gap uniformly.
3. Field winding: They are usually made of copper. Field coils are former wounds placed on
each pole and are connected in series. They are wound in such a way that, when energized,
they form alternate North and South poles.
4. Armature core: The Armature core is the rotor of a DC machine. It is cylindrical in shape
with slots to carry armature winding. The armature is built up of thin laminated circular steel
disks for reducing eddy current losses. It may be provided with air ducts for the axial airflow
for cooling purposes. The armature is keyed (fixed) to the shaft.
5. Armature winding: It is usually a former wound copper coil that rests in armature slots. The
armature conductors are insulated from each other and the armature core. Armature winding
can be wound by one of the two methods: lap winding or wave winding. Double-layer lap or
wave windings are generally used. A double-layer winding means that each armature slot will
carry two different coils.
6. Commutator and brushes: Physical connection to the armature winding is made through a
commutator-brush arrangement. The function of a commutator in a DC generator is to collect
the current generated in armature conductors. Whereas, in the case of a DC motor, the
commutator helps in providing current to the armature conductors. A commutator consists of
a set of copper segments that are insulated from each other. The number of segments is equal
to the number of armature coils. Each segment is connected to an armature coil and the
commutator is keyed (or fixed) to the shaft. Brushes are usually made from carbon or graphite.
They rest on commutator segments and slide on the segments when the commutator rotates
keeping the physical contact to collect or supply the current.

Working Principle of DC Motor:

An Electric motor is a machine that converts electric energy into mechanical energy. Its actions is
based on the principle that when a current-carrying conductor is placed in a magnetic field, it
experiences a mechanical force whose direction is given by Fleming’s Left-hand Rule and whose
magnitude is given by F = BIl Newton.
When the field magnets are excited and its armature conductors are supplied with current from
the supply mains, they experience a force tending to rotate the armature. Armature conductors
under N-pole are assumed to carry current downwards (crosses) and those under S-poles, are to
carry current upwards (dots). By applying Fleming’s Left-hand Rule, the direction of the force on
each conductor can be found. It is shown by small arrows placed above each conductor. It will be
seen that each conductor can be found. It will be seen that each conductor experiences a force F
which tends to rotate the armature in an anticlockwise direction. These forces collectively produce
a driving torque which sets the armature rotating.

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 2

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

It should be noted that the function of a commutator in the motor is the same as in a generator. By
reversing current in each conductor as it passes from one pole to another, it helps to develop a
continuous and unidirectional torque.

Back EMF:
When the armature of a d.c. the motor rotates under the influence of the driving torque, the armature
conductors move through the magnetic field and hence e.m.f. is induced in them as in a generator.
The induced e.m.f. acts in the opposite direction to the applied voltage V (Lenz's law) and in known
as back or counter e.m.f.
The back e.m.f. Eb(= P φ ZN/60 A) is always less than the applied voltage V, although this difference
is small when the motor is running under normal conditions.

Significance of Back EMF:

The presence of back e.m.f. makes the d.c. motor a self-regulating machine i.e., it makes the motor
to draw as much armature current as is just sufficient to develop the torque required by the load.

Armature current,
• When the motor is running on no load, small torque is required to overcome the friction and
windage losses. Therefore, the armature current Ia is small and the back e.m.f. is nearly equal
to the applied voltage.

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 3

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

• If the motor is suddenly loaded, the first effect is to cause the armature to slow down.
Therefore, the speed at which the armature conductors move through the field is reduced, and
hence the back e.m.f. Eb falls. The decreased back e.m.f. allows a larger current to flow
through the armature and a larger current means increased driving torque. Thus, the driving
torque increases as the motor slows down. The motor will stop slowing down when the
armature current is just sufficient to produce the increased torque required by the load.
• If the load on the motor is decreased, the driving torque is momentarily more than the
requirement so that the armature is accelerated. As the armature speed increases, the back
e.m.f. Eb also increases and causes the armature current Ia to decrease. The motor will stop
accelerating when the armature current is just sufficient to produce the reduced torque
required by the load.
It follows, therefore, that back e.m.f. in a d.c. motor regulates the flow of armature current i.e., it
automatically changes the armature current to meet the load requirement.

Torque Equation:
Torque is the turning moment of a force about an axis and is
measured by the product of force (F) and radius (r) at right
angle to which the force acts.
Consider the armature of the DC motor to have a radius r and
let F be the force acting tangential to its surface as shown in
figure.
Armature Torque Ta = F × r (N-m)
where, F = force and r = radius of the armature
Work done in one revolution of the armature is given by,
w = F * distance covered in one revolution
= F * 2Πr = (F * r) 2 Π = Ta 2Π
The power developed by the armature = work done in one second
= Work done / Time taken
𝟐𝚷𝐓𝐚
=
𝟔𝟎⁄
𝑵
𝟐𝚷𝐍𝐓𝐚
= 𝑾 … … … . (𝟏)
𝟔𝟎
But also we have
The power developed in the armature = EbIa …………(2)
From equation (1) & (2)
𝟐𝚷𝐍𝐓𝐚
= 𝑬𝒃 𝑰𝒂
𝟔𝟎

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 4

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

𝒁𝑷Ø𝑵
𝐄𝐛 =
𝟔𝟎𝑨
𝟐𝚷𝐍𝐓𝐚 𝒁𝑷Ø𝑵
= 𝑰
𝟔𝟎 𝟔𝟎𝑨 𝒂

𝐙𝐏Ø
𝐓𝐚 = 𝐈
𝟐𝚷𝐀 𝐚
𝟎. 𝟏𝟓𝟗 𝐙𝐏Ø
𝐓𝐚 = 𝐈𝐚 𝑵−𝒎
𝐀
The above equation gives the gross torque developed by the armature which includes iron losses
and mechanical losses of the motor.
Since Z, P, and A are fixed for a given machine,

Hence torque in a d.c. the motor is directly proportional to flux per pole and armature current.
1. For a shunt motor, flux φ is practically constant.

2. For a series motor, flux φ is directly proportional to armature current I a provided magnetic
saturation does not take place.

Shaft Torque (Tsh):

The actual torque or shaft torque (torque available at the shaft) or Useful torque = Tsh = Ta – TL
Where Tsh= shaft torque
Ta = armature torque
TL = lost torque due to iron losses and mechanical losses
𝟐𝛑𝐍𝐓𝐬𝐡
𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐩𝐮𝐭 =
𝟔𝟎

𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐩𝐮𝐭 ∗ 𝟔𝟎
𝐓𝐬𝐡 =
𝟐𝛑𝐍
If output is in Horse Power,
𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐩𝐮𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐇. 𝐏 ∗ 𝟕𝟑𝟓. 𝟓
𝐓𝐬𝐡 = ………..𝐍 − 𝐦
𝟐𝛑𝐍/𝟔𝟎

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 5

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

Classification of DC Motor:

Separately Excited DC Motor:

In the case of a separately excited DC motor, the
supply is given separately to the field and
armature windings. The main distinguishing fact
in these types of DC motors is that the armature
current does not flow through the field windings,
as the field winding is energized from a separate
external source of DC as shown in the figure
beside.

Permanent Magnet DC Motor:

The permanent magnet DC motor (also known as
a PMDC motor) consists of an armature winding
as in the case of a usual motor but does not
necessarily contain the field windings. The
construction of these types of DC motors is such
that, radially magnetized permanent magnets are
mounted on the inner periphery of the stator core
to produce the field flux.
The rotor on the other hand has a conventional DC
armature with commutator segments and brushes.

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 6

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

Self Excited DC Motor:

In case of a self-excited DC motor, the field winding is connected either in series or in parallel or
partly in series, partly in parallel to the armature winding. Based on this, self-excited DC Motors can
be classified as:
1. Shunt wound DC motor
2. Series wound DC motor
3. Compound wound DC motor

Shunt-wound DC Motor:

In the shunt dc motor type motor, the armature and field winding are connected in parallel as shown
in fig. The parallel combination of the two windings is connected across a common dc power supply.
Resistance of the shunt field winding (Rsh) is always much higher than that of the armature winding
(Ra).
𝐈 = 𝐈𝐬𝐡 + 𝐈𝐚
𝐕
𝐈𝐒𝐡 =
𝐑 𝐬𝐡
𝐕 = 𝐄𝐛 + 𝐈𝐚 𝐑 𝐚
Ø = 𝑰𝒔𝒉

Series-wound DC Motor:

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 7

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

In the D.C. series motor, the armature and field windings are connected in series with each other as
shown in fig. The resistance of the series field winding (Rs) is much smaller as compared to that of
the armature resistance (Ra). Current flowing through armature winding and field winding is the
same name as I=Ia=Ise.
𝐈 = 𝐈𝐬𝐞 = 𝐈𝐚
𝐕 = 𝐄𝐛 + 𝐈𝐚 𝐑 𝐚 + 𝐈𝐬𝐞 𝐑 𝐬𝐞
𝐕 = 𝐄𝐛 + 𝐈𝐚 (𝐑 𝐚 + 𝐑 𝐬𝐞 )
𝝓 ∝ 𝑰𝒔𝒆 ∝ 𝑰𝒂

DC Compound Motors:
The DC compound motors are classified into two types:
1. Long shunt compound motor.
2. Short shunt compound motor.

Long Shunt Compound Motor: The shunt field winding is connected across the series combination
of the armature and series field winding.

𝐈 = 𝐈𝐬𝐞 + 𝐈𝐬𝐡
𝐈𝐬𝐞 = 𝐈𝐚
𝑽
𝑰𝒔𝒉 =
𝑹𝒔𝒉
𝐕 = 𝐄𝐛 + 𝐈𝐚 𝐑 𝐚 + 𝐈𝐬𝐞 𝐑 𝐬𝐞
𝐕 = 𝐄𝐛 + 𝐈𝐚 (𝐑 𝐚 + 𝐑 𝐬𝐞 )
Long Shunt Compound Motor: The armature and shunt field windings are connected in parallel
with each other and this parallel connection combination is then connected in series with the series
field winding.

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 8

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

𝐈 = 𝐈𝐬𝐞 = 𝐈𝐚 + 𝐈𝐬𝐡
𝐕 = 𝐄𝐛 + 𝐈𝐚 𝐑 𝐚 + 𝐈𝐬𝐞 𝐑 𝐬𝐞
𝐕 = 𝐄𝐛 + 𝐈𝐚 𝐑 𝐚 + 𝐈𝐑 𝐬𝐞
𝐕 − 𝐈 𝐑 𝐬𝐞 𝐄𝐛 + 𝐈𝐚 𝐑 𝐚
𝐈𝐬𝐡 = =
𝐑 𝐬𝐡 𝐑 𝐬𝐡
Cumulative compound motor: The flux produced by the shunt field winding enhances the effect of
the main field flux which is produced by series winding.
Differential compound motor: The flux produced due to the shunt field winding reduces the effect
of the main series winding.

Characteristics of DC Motor: The performance of a DC motor under various conditions can

be judged by the following characteristics.
1. Torque – Armature current characteristics (Ta Vs Ia)
2. Speed – Armature current characteristics (N Vs Ia)
3. Speed – Torque characteristics (N Vs Ta)

Characteristics of DC Shunt Motor: The shunt motors are the constant flux machines i.e.
their magnetic flux remains constant because their field winding is directly connected across the
supply voltage which is assumed to be constant.
Torque – Armature current characteristics (Ta Vs Ia): The armature torque in a DC motor is
directly proportional to the flux and the armature current, i.e.,

In case of a shunt motor, the flux is also constant. Therefore,

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 9

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

Hence, the torque and armature current characteristics of DC

shunt motor is straight line passing through the origin (see the
figure). The shaft torque is less than the armature torque which
is represented by the dotted line.
From the characteristics, it can be seen that a very large current
is required to start a heavy load. Thus, the shunt motor should
not be started on heavy loads.

Speed – Armature current characteristics (N Vs Ia):

The Speed of a shunt DC motor is given by,

For a DC shunt motor, the back EMF and flux both are constant under
normal operating conditions. Therefore, the speed of a shunt motor will
remain constant with respect to the armature current as shown by a dotted
line.
However, when the load is increased, the back EMF and flux decreases due
to the drop in armature resistance and armature reaction respectively.
Although the back EMF decreases somewhat greater than the flux so that
speed of motor decreases slight with the increase in load.

Speed – Torque characteristics (N Vs Ta):

This is the curve plotted between the speed and the torque for
various armature currents. It can be seen that the speed of the
shunt motor decreases as the load torque increases.

Characteristics of DC Series Motor: In a DC series motor, the field winding is connected in

series with the armature and hence carries the full armature current. When the load on shaft of the
motor is increased, the armature current also increases. Hence, the flux in a series motor increases
with the increase in the armature current and vice-versa.
Torque – Armature current characteristics (Ta Vs Ia):

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 10

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

In a DC motor,

Up to magnetic saturation,
After magnetic saturation ,φ becomes constant so that,
Therefore, up to magnetic saturation, the armature torque is
directly proportional to the square of the armature current. Hence,
the torque versus armature current curve upto magnetic saturation
is a parabola (part OA of the curve).
After the magnetic saturation, the armature torque is directly
proportional to the armature current. Hence, torque versus armature
current curve after magnetic saturation is a straight line (Part AB
of the curve).
From the torque versus armature current curve, it is clear that the starting torque of a DC series motor
is very high.
Speed – Armature current characteristics (N Vs Ia):
The speed of a DC series motor is given by,
With the increase in the armature current, the
back EMF is decreased due to the ohmic drop in armature and
series field resistances whereas the flux is increased. Although, the
resistance drop is very small under normal operating conditions
and can be neglected, thus,

Hence, up to magnetic saturation, the speed versus armature

current curve is a hyperbola while after the magnetic saturation, the flux becomes constant and hence
the speed.
Speed – Torque characteristics (N Vs Ta):
The speed torque characteristics of a DC series motor can be obtained from its speed-armature current
and torque-armature current characteristics as follows

For a given value of Ia determine τa from the torque-armature current curve and N from the speed-
armature current curve. This will give a point ( τ,N) on speed-
torque curve. Repeat this procedure for different values of
armature current and determine the corresponding values of
speed and torque (τ1, N1), (τ2, N2) etc.

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 11

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

When these points are plotted on the graph, we obtain the speed and torque characteristics of a DC
series motor as shown in the figure.
It is clear from the characteristics that the series motor has high torque at low speed and vice-versa.
Thus, the series DC motor is used where high starting torque is required.

Characteristics of DC Compound Motor:

Torque – Armature current characteristics (Ta Vs Ia):
As the load increases, the series field fluxes increase but the
shunt field flux remains constant consequently, total flux is
increased and hence the armature torque. It may be noted that
the torque of a cumulative compound motor is greater than that
of a shunt motor for a given armature current due to the series
field. Differential compound motor characteristics is reverse of
the cumulative compound motor.
Speed – Armature current characteristics (N Vs Ia):
We have,

Eb is practically constant.

As the load increases the flux per pole also increases consequently the speed of the motor falls. Thus
the speed regulation of a cumulative compound motor is poorer than of a shunt motor.
Speed – Torque characteristics (N Vs Ta):
For a given armature current, the torque of a cumulative
compound motor is more than that of a series motor.

Speed Control of DC Shunt Motor:

DC shunt motor speed can be controlled by
1. Flux control method
2. Armature voltage control method (Rheostat control method)
3. Applied voltage control method

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 12

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

Flux Control Method :

The speed of a DC motor is inversely proportional to the flux per pole. Thus by decreasing the flux,
speed can be increased and vice versa.
To control the flux, a rheostat is added in series with the field winding, as shown in the circuit
diagram. Adding more resistance in series with the field winding will increase the speed as it
decreases the flux. In shunt motors, as field current is relatively very small, Ish2R loss is small.
Therefore, this method is quite efficient. Though speed can be increased above the rated value by
reducing flux with this method, it puts a limit to maximum speed as weakening of field flux beyond
a limit will adversely affect the commutation.

Armature Voltage Control Method:

The speed of a dc motor is directly proportional to the back emf E b and Eb = V - IaRa. That means,
when the supply voltage V and the armature resistance Ra are kept constant, then the speed is directly
proportional to armature current Ia. Thus, if we add resistance in series with the armature, Ia decreases
and, hence, the speed also decreases. The greater the resistance in series with the armature, the greater
the decrease in speed.

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 13

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

Voltage Control Method:

Multiple voltage control: In this method, the shunt field is connected to a fixed exciting voltage and
armature is supplied with different voltages. Voltage across armature is changed with the help of
suitable switchgear. The speed is approximately proportional to the voltage across the armature.
Ward-Leonard System:

This system is used where very sensitive speed control of motor is required (e.g electric excavators,
elevators etc.). The arrangement of this system is as shown in the figure at right. M2 is the motor to
which speed control is required.
M1 may be any AC motor or DC motor with constant speed. G is a generator directly coupled to
[Link] this method, the output from generator G is fed to the armature of the motor M2 whose speed
is to be controlled. The output voltage of generator G can be varied from zero to its maximum value
by means of its field regulator and, hence, the armature voltage of the motor M2 is varied very
smoothly. Hence, very smooth speed control of the dc motor can be obtained by this method.

Applications of DC Motors:
1. DC Shunt Motor: When constant speed is required DC shunt motors are used.
Examples: Lathes, Centrifugal pumps, fans, drilling machines. etc.

2. DC Series Motor: For high starting torque we prefer DC series motor.

Examples: Electric traction, electric locomotives, cranes, hoists, conveyors etc.

3. DC Compound Motor: When we require constant speed and high starting torque Cumulative
compound motors are preferred.
Examples: shears, punches, coal-cutting machines, elevators, conveyors, printing presses, etc.
Differential compound motors have no practical applications (being unstable).

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 14

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

Losses in DC motors: The losses taking place in the motor are the same as a generator are
classified into three groups are
1. Copper losses
• Armature Cu loss
• Field Cu loss
• Loss due to brush contact resistance
2. Iron Losses
• Hysteresis loss
• Eddy current loss
3. Mechanical losses
• Friction loss
• Windage loss
Copper Losses: These losses occur in the armature and field copper windings. Copper losses consist
of Armature copper loss, Field copper loss, and loss due to brush contact resistance.
Armature copper loss = Ia2Ra (where, Ia = Armature current and Ra= Armature resistance)
This loss contributes about 30 to 40% to full load losses. The armature copper loss is variable and
depends upon the amount of loading of the machine.
Field copper loss = If2Rf (where, If = field current and Rf = field resistance)
In the case of a shunt-wounded field, field copper loss is practically constant. It contributes about 20
to 30% to full load losses.
Brush contact resistance also contributes to the copper losses. Generally, this loss is included into
armature copper loss.
Iron Losses (Core Losses): As the armature core is made of iron and it rotates in a magnetic field, a
small current gets induced in the core itself too. Due to this current, eddy current loss and hysteresis
loss occur in the armature iron core. Iron losses are also called as Core losses or magnetic losses.
Hysteresis loss is due to the reversal of magnetization of the armature core. When the core passes
under one pair of poles, it undergoes one complete cycle of magnetic reversal. The frequency of
magnetic reversal is given by, f=P.N/120 (where, P = no. of poles and N = Speed in rpm)
The loss depends upon the volume and grade of the iron, frequency of magnetic reversals and value
of flux density. Hysteresis loss is given by, Steinmetz formula:
Wh=ηBmax1.6fV (watts)
where, η = Steinmetz hysteresis constant
V = volume of the core in m3
Eddy current loss: When the armature core rotates in the magnetic field, an emf is also induced in
the core (just like it induces in armature conductors), according to the Faraday's law of
electromagnetic induction. Though this induced emf is small, it causes a large current to flow in the
body due to the low resistance of the core. This current is known as eddy current. The power loss due
to this current is known as eddy current loss.

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 15

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

Mechanical Losses: Mechanical losses consist of losses due to friction in bearings and
commutator. Air friction loss of rotating armature also contributes to these losses are about 10 to
20% of full load losses.
Stray Losses: In addition to the losses stated above, there may be small losses present which are
called stray losses or miscellaneous losses. These losses are difficult to account. They are usually
due to inaccuracies in the design and modeling of the machine. Most of the time, stray losses are
assumed to be 1% of the full load.

Power Flow Diagram: The most convenient method to understand these losses in a dc generator
or a dc motor is using the power flow diagram. The diagram visualizes the amount of power that has
been lost in various types of losses and the amount of power which has been actually converted into
the output. Following are the typical power flow diagrams for a dc generator and a dc motor.

Power flow diagram of Generator

Mechanical Electrical
Pin Power Input= Power Electrical
Output of developed in Power output
driving armature= = VI watt Pout
machine Eg Ia

Iron and Friction losses Copper losses

Power flow diagram of Motor

Electrical Mechanical
Pin Power input to Power
Power output
motor = VI developed in
in watts Pout
watt armature=
Eb Ia

Copper losses Iron and Friction losses

The efficiency of DC motor:

For a D.C. machine, its overall efficiency is given by,

Let Pout = total output of a machine

Pin = total input of a machine
Pcu = variable losses

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 16

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

Pi= constant losses

Then Pin = Pout + Pcu + Pi

Condition for Maximum Efficiency: The condition for maximum efficiency of a DC

generator or of a DC motor is the same and for a DC generator it is derived as follows.
Generator output = VI
V= Terminal Voltage
I = Output or Load current
Generator input = Output + Total losses
= VI + Pcu + Pi
Pcu = Variable losses = I2 Ra = I2 Ra
Ia = I ……. Neglecting shunt field current
Ra = Total resistance of armature circuit
Output
Generator efficiency n = ∗ 100
Input

The efficiency is maximum when the denominator is minimum. According to maxima-minima

theorem,

Hence efficiency will be maximum when variable losses are equal to constant losses.

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 17

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

Direct and Indirect Method of Testing of DC motor:

Direct Method:
• In this method, the DC machine is loaded directly using a brake applied to a water-cooled
pulley coupled to the shaft of the machine.
• It is practically not possible to arrange loads for machines of large capacity. So this method
is used only for testing small DC machines.
• The Brake Test is an example of a direct test.
Indirect Method :
• In this method of testing, the losses are determined without actual loading of the machine.
• If the total losses in the machine are known the efficiency can be calculated. Swinburne's Test
is an example of an Indirect Test.

Swinburn’s Test:

This is indirect method of testing d.c. motors in which flux remains practically constant i.e. especially
in case of shunt and compound motors. Without actually loading the motor the losses and hence
efficiency at different loads can be found out.
The motor is run on no load at its rated voltage. At the start some resistance is connected in series
with the armature which is cut when the motor attains sufficient speed.
Now the speed of the motor is adjusted to the rated speed with the help of shunt field rheostat as
shown in Fig.

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 18

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

The no-load armature current I0 is measured by ammeter A1 whereas the shunt current is measured
by ammeter A2.

The no-load current is

In calculating armature Cu loss, the 'hot' resistance of the armature should be used. A stationary
measurement of armature circuit resistance at the room-temperature of, say, 150C is made by passing
current through the armature from a low voltage d.c. supply.

Efficiency when running as a motor:

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 19

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

Efficiency when running as a Generator:

Advantages and Disadvantages of Swinburne’s Test:

Advantages:
1. It is convenient and economical because the power required to test a large machine is small
i.e. only no-load input power.
2. The efficiency can be predetermined at any load because constant losses are known.
Disadvantages:
1. No account is taken of the change in iron losses from no-load to full-load. At full load, due to
armature reaction, flux is distorted which increases the iron losses m some cases by as much
as 50%.
2. As the test is on no-load, it is impossible to know whether commutation would be satisfactory
at full load and whether the temperature rise would be within the specified limits.

Field Test:

This test is applicable to two similar series motors. Series motors which are mainly used for traction
work are easily available in pairs. The two machines are coupled mechanically.
One machine runs normally as a motor and drives a generator whose output is wasted in a variable
load R (Fig.31.14). Iron and friction losses of two machines are made equal
(i) By joining the series field winding of the generator in the motor armature circuit so that
both machines are equally excited and

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 20

BEE401 Module 1- DC Motors, Losses and Efficiency and Testing of DC Motors

(ii) By running them at equal speed. Load resistance R is varied till the motor current reaches
its full-load value indicated by ammeter A1.
After this adjustment for full-load current, different ammeter and voltmeter readings are noted.
Let V = supply voltage; I1 = motor current; V2 = terminal p.d. of generator; I2 load current.
Intake of the whole set = VI1 ; output = V2I2.

where Ra= hot armature resistance of each machine

Rse = hot series field resistance of each machine

Stray losses are equally divided between the machines because of their equal excitation and speed.
Motor Efficiency:

Generator Efficiency: The generator efficiency will be of little use because it is running under
abnormal conditions of separate excitation. However, the efficiency under these unusual conditions
can be found if desired.

Prepared by - Sowmyashree K S, Dept of EEE, ATMECE, Mysuru 21

ATME COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
th
13 KM Stone, Bannur Road, Mysore - 560 028

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

ENGINEERING

(ACADEMIC YEAR 2024 -25 )

COURSE: Electric Motors

SUB CODE: BEE401

SEMESTER: Four
 Vision & Mission of ATME College of Engineering
Vision

Development of academically excellent, culturally vibrant, socially responsible and

globally competent human resources.

Mission

➢
To keep pace with advancements in knowledge and make the students competitive
and capable at the global level.
➢
To create an environment for the students to acquire the right physical, intellectual,
emotional and moral foundations and shine as torchbearers of tomorrow's society.
➢
To strive to attain ever-higher benchmarks of educational excellence.

Vision & Mission of Department of Electrical & Electronics Engineering

Vision of the department

To create Electrical and Electronics Engineers who excel to be technically competent and fulfill
the cultural and social aspirations of the society.

Mission of the Department

• To provide knowledge to students that builds a strong foundation in the basic principles of
electrical engineering, problem solving abilities, analytical skills, soft skills and
communication skills for their overall development.
• To offer outcome based technical education.
• To encourage faculty in training & development and to offer consultancy through research
& industry interaction.
 PROGRAMME EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES AND PROGRAMME
OUTCOMES

PROGRAMME OUTCOMES:

Engineering Graduates will be able to:

PO1. Engineering knowledge: Apply the knowledge of mathematics, science, engineering

fundamentals, and an engineering specialization to the solution of complex engineering
problems.

PO2. Problem analysis: Identify, formulate, review research literature, and analyze complex
engineering problems reaching substantiated conclusions using first principles of mathematics,
natural sciences, and engineering sciences.

PO3. Design/development of solutions: Design solutions for complex engineering problems

and design system components or processes that meet the specified needs with appropriate
consideration for the public health and safety, and the cultural, societal, and environmental
considerations.

PO4. Conduct investigations of complex problems: Use research-based knowledge and

research methods including design of EXPERIMENTs, analysis and interpretation of data, and
synthesis of the information to provide valid conclusions.

PO5. Modern tool usage: Create, select, and apply appropriate techniques, resources, and
modern engineering and IT tools including prediction and modeling to complex engineering
activities with an understanding of the limitations.

PO6. The engineer and society: Apply reasoning informed by the contextual knowledge to
assess societal, health, safety, legal and cultural issues and the consequent responsibilities
relevant to the professional engineering practice.

PO7. Environment and sustainability: Understand the impact of the professional engineering
solutions in societal and environmental contexts, and demonstrate the knowledge of, and need
for sustainable development.

PO8. Ethics: Apply ethical principles and commit to professional ethics and responsibilities and
norms of the engineering practice.

PO9. Individual and team work: Function effectively as an individual, and as a member or
leader in diverse teams, and in multidisciplinary settings.
PO10. Communication: Communicate effectively on complex engineering activities with the
engineering community and with society at large, such as, being able to comprehend and write
effective reports and design documentation, make effective presentations, and give and receive
clear instructions.

PO11. Project management and finance: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the
engineering and management principles and apply these to one‘s own work, as a member and
leader in a team, to manage projects and in multidisciplinary environments.

PO12. Life-long learning: Recognize the need for, and have the preparation and ability to
engage in independent and life-long learning in the broadest context of technological change.

Program Educational Objectives (PEOs):

PEO1: To produce competent and ethical Electrical and Electronics Engineers who will exhibit the
necessary technical and managerial skills to perform their duties in society.
PEO2: To make graduates continuously acquire and enhance their technical and socio-economic skills.
PEO3: To aspire graduates on R&D activities leading to offering solutions and excel in various career
paths.
PEO4: To produce quality engineers who have the capability to work in teams and contribute to real time
projects.
Electric Motors-BEE401