Given that 70% of the time that we put into work gets wasted, a lot of that time is wasted because of the wrong tools. If you’re deciding on an AC motor vs. a DC motor, then you need to understand their applications better. One is better for one type of project while the other might be what you need for a project you haven’t considered using it for.
Here is everything you need to know about how motors impact your load.
Understanding Load Needs
When you’re operating equipment with a motor, it doesn’t always have a load attached. Sometimes the motor itself is doing all the work while the equipment is moved around by an operator.
When a motor is bearing a load or dragging an object around, it’s dealing with external resistance that takes mechanical energy. If you calculate how much real power your equipment has, the raw mechanical energy is going to be dragged down by your load. Some internal factors change how a motor works, but much of the change comes from external factors.
When a shaft rotates freely, then the only resistance you have to worry about is from internal factors.
When To Use AC motors
Alternating current motors don’t have a lot of the control that direct current motors have. However, with a frequency converter, an AC motor and DC motor vary, far less.
If you’re working on a project that doesn’t require a lot of stable motion in your motor, then you should use an AC motor. If fixed speed isn’t an absolute must, then an AC motor is fine. The only thing is that if you need to use your motor at a deficient speed, AC needs a certain frequency just to get started and could fluctuate as well.
For the best deal when it comes to performance and torque output, however, AC motors give you the best of both worlds. You’ll have a powerful and strong performance that doesn’t struggle with the resistance of loads. You could end up remaining at a steady pace in spite of a load.
When To Use DC Motors
Direct current motors are good for a lot of applications that AC motors aren’t prepared for. When you need more torque while starting your motor, you can get that high starting power with DC. They overcome the initial inertia that a load puts on a motor when it’s just getting started.
While you might require some versatility, AC won’t always cut it. You can modify DC motors much easier in both high power and low power applications.
When you need to deal with a project where your load is your priority, not precision, DC motors come in handy.
The AC Motor Vs. DC Motor Debate is Easy
When it comes to deciding between an AC motor vs. a DC motor, it all comes down to your load. Whatever is better for your load, that’s the motor to choose.
To keep your motors in good shape, follow our guide for equipment maintenance.