Electric motor with carbon brushes
How does an electric motor with carbon brushes work? - An electric motor with carbon brushes uses these important components to transfer electrical current to moving parts of the motor such as the rotor. These brushes establish a conductive connection to the commutator or the slip rings, which convert the electrical energy into a mechanical movement.
Electric motor: How the interaction with the carbon brushes works
Carbon brushes are essential for the functionality of many electric motor variants, especially those that require variable speed control. They usually consist of a mixture of graphite and various metallic elements in order to optimize the conductivity and physical properties of the brushes. This composition varies depending on the specific requirements of the motor.
The carbon brushes transfer current to the commutator - a cylindrical structure on the motor shaft - as it rotates. This transmission enables the motor to convert the electrical energy into mechanical rotation. The brushes glide over the segmented surface of the commutator. The segmented design controls the direction of rotation of the electric field and thus of the motor.
Friction and sparking - risks of an electric motor with carbon brushes
However, the continuous contact leads to friction, which in turn wears down the brushes and leads to carbon dust that can accumulate in the motor. This wear makes regular maintenance necessary to ensure the performance and safety of the motor. The challenge of RFI suppression is caused by so-called brush fire - sparks that are generated when the brushes glide over the commutator.
These sparks can cause electromagnetic interference that affects neighboring electronic devices. Due to this risk, motors with carbon brushes are often not suitable for use in potentially explosive atmospheres or in environments such as clean rooms where dust must be avoided.
Industrial applications of an electric motor with carbon brushes
Electric motors with carbon brushes are widely used in industry, particularly where precise speed regulation and high starting torques are required.
They are typically used in production automation, where they can be found in conveyor belts, hoists and production machines. It is also important in the automotive industry that electric motors with carbon brushes function properly. Here they can be found in window regulators and windshield wipers.