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 to the shaft.
A commutator is a rotary electrical switch in certain types of electric motors and electrical generators that periodically reverses the current direction between the rotor and the external circuit. It consists of a cylinder composed of multiple metal contact segments on the rotating armature of the machine.
What is the purpose of a commutator in a DC generator?
In the case of the DC generator, the commutator is used to convert the generated AC in the armature into DC. In DC Generators, the electromagnetic field generated by the magnet inside the armature coil changes. Thus, the voltage generated and the type of current also change. The function of a commutator in a dc generator is to collect the current generated in armature conductors. While in the case of a dc motor, the commutator helps in providing current to the armature conductors.
The commutator on the DC generator converts the AC into pulsating DC. The commutator assures that the current from the generator always flows in one direction. The brushes ride on the commutator and make good electrical connections between the generator and the load.
DC Generator
There are two functions performed by the commutator in a
- To collect the electrical energy produced in the rotating armature windings and transfer it to the stationary electric load.
- To convert the originally induced sinusoidally varying and alternating e.m.f in the armature conductors into unidirectional (but still varying sinusoidally).
What is the purpose of a commutator in a DC motor?
In the case of the DC motor, the commutator is used to convert DC to A.C. In DC Motors, the commutator reverses the flow of the current with the rotation of the shaft and the armature tube. DC Motors maintains the flow of torque in one direction. While in the case of a dc motor, the commutator helps in providing current to the armature conductors. The function of a commutator in a dc generator is to collect the current generated in armature conductors.
While in the case of a dc motor, the commutator helps in providing current to the armature conductors.
DC motor:
There are two functions performed by the commutator in a
- To transfer the electrical energy from stationary supply to rotating armature conductors and
- To convert the original sinusoidally varying and alternating force acting on the armature conductors into a unidirectional (but still varying sinusoidally force .
- Thus, in a D.C. motor, the commutator converts the original sinusoidally varying and alternating torque into a unidirectional (but still varying sinusoidally) torque.