MODULE -1

DC GENERATORS
1. Construction of DC Machine (motor or generator)
The main parts of DC Machine (motor or generator) are as follows:
1. Yoke
2. Pole core and pole shoes
3. Pole coil and field coil
4. Armature core
5. Armature winding or conductor
6. Commutator
7. Brushes and bearings

Yoke

Function
o

It provide mechanical Support for poles

It also provide protection to whole machine from dust, moisture etc.

It also carries magnetic flux produced by the poles

Yoke is also called as frame.

Material used
o

For small M/C yoke is made of cast iron.

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For large M/C it is made of cast steel or rolled steel.

Pole & Pole core

Function
o

Pole of a generator is an electromagnet.

The field winding is winding over pale.

Pole provides magnetic flux when field winding is excited.

Material used
o

Pole core or pole made of cast iron or cast steel.

It built of these laminations of annealed steel.

The laminations is done to reduce the power lose due to eddy currents.

Pole Shoe

Function
o

It is extended part of pole. It enlarge area of pole

Due to this enlarged area, flux is spread out in the air gap and more flux can pass through the air
gap to armature.

Material used
o

It is made of cast iron or cast steed.

It built of this lamination of annealed steel. the lamination is done to reduce power loss due to
eddy currents

Pole coil or field windings

Function
o

It is wound around pole core and called as field coil

it is connected in series to from field winding

When Current is passed through field winding it electro magnetize the poles which produce
necessary flux.

Material used
o

The material used for field conductor is copper.

Armature Core

Function
o

It has large number of slots in its periphery

Armature conductor, are placed in this slots

It is also provide path of low reluctance to the flux produced by field winding

Material used
o

High permeability low reluctance materials such as cast or iron are used for armature core.

The lamination is provided so as to reduce the loss due to eddy current.

Armature Winding

Function
o

Armature conductor are inter connected to form armature Winding

When armature winding is rotated using prime mover. the magnetic flux and voltage gets
induced in it

Armature winding is connected to external circuit

Material used
o

It is made of conducting material such as coppers.

Commutator

Function

o It Convert alternating current induce in the current in a unidirectional current

o It collects the current form armature conductor and pass it load with the help of brushes
o It also provide unidirectional torque for dc motor

Material used

o It is made of a large number of edge shaped segments of hard drawn copper.

o The Segments are insulated from each other by thin layer of mica.
Brushes

Function

o Brushes collect the current from commutator and apply it to external load.
o Brushes wear with time and it is should be inspected regularly.

Material used

o Brushes are made of carbon or graphite it is rectangular in shape.

2. Working principle of a DC generator
According to Faradays laws of electromagnetic induction, whenever a conductor is placed
in a varying magnetic field (OR a conductor is moved in a magnetic field), an emf (electromotive
force) gets induced in the conductor. The magnitude of induced emf can be calculated from the emf
equation of dc generator. If the conductor is provided with the closed path, the induced current will
circulate within the path. In a DC generator, field coils produce an electromagnetic field and the
armature conductors are rotated into the field. Thus, an electromagnetically induced emf is
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generated in the armature conductors. The direction of induced current is given by Flemings right
hand rule.
Need of a Split ring commutator:

According to Flemings right hand rule, the direction of induced current changes whenever
the direction of motion of the conductor changes. Lets consider an armature rotating clockwise and
a conductor at the left is moving upward. When the armature completes a half rotation, the direction
of motion of that particular conductor will be reversed to downward. Hence, the direction of current
in every armature conductor will be alternating. If you look at the above figure, you will know how
the direction of the induced current is alternating in an armature conductor. But with a split ring
commutator, connections of the armature conductors also gets reversed when the current reversal
occurs. And therefore, we get unidirectional current at the terminals.

3. Types of DC Generators
Generally DC generators are classified according to the ways of excitation of their fields. There are
three methods of excitation.
i.

ii.
iii.

Field coils excited by permanent magnets Permanent magnet DC generators

Field coils excited by some external source Separately excited DC generators
Field coils excited by the generator itself Self excited DC generators

Permanent Magnet DC Generator

When the flux in the magnetic circuit is established by the help of permanent magnets then
it is known as Permanent magnet dc generator. It consists of an armature and one or several
permanent magnets situated around the armature. This type of dc generators generates very low
power. So, they are rarely found in industrial applications. They are normally used in small
applications like dynamos in motor cycles.
Separately Excited DC Generator
These are the generators whose field magnets are energized by some external dc source such as
battery .

A circuit diagram of separately excited DC generator is shown in figure.

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Ia = Armature current,

IL = Load current

V = Terminal voltage,

Eg = Generated emf

Voltage drop in the armature = Ia Ra (Ra is the armature resistance)

Let, Ia = IL = I (say)
Then, voltage across the load, V = IRa
Power generated, Pg = EgI
Power delivered to the external load, PL = VI.
Self-excited DC Generators
These are the generators whose field magnets are energized by the current supplied by
themselves. In these type of machines field coils are internally connected with the armature. Due to
residual magnetism some flux is always present in the poles. When the armature is rotated some
emf is induced. Hence some induced current is produced. This small current flows through the field
coil as well as the load and thereby strengthening the pole flux. As the pole flux strengthened, it will
produce more armature emf, which cause further increase of current through the field. This
increased field current further raises armature emf and this cumulative phenomenon continues until
the excitation reaches to the rated value.
According to the position of the field coils the Self-excited DC generators may be classified
as
A. Series wound generators B. Shunt wound generators

C. Compound wound generators

Series Wound Generator

In these type of generators, the field windings are connected in series with armature
conductors as shown in figure below. So, whole current flows through the field coils as well as the
load. As series field winding carries full load current it is designed with relatively few turns of thick
wire. The electrical resistance of series field winding is therefore very low (nearly 0.5 ).
Let, Rsc = Series winding resistance, Isc = Current flowing through the series field
Ra = Armature resistance, Ia = Armature current, IL = Load current

V = Terminal voltage, Eg = Generated emf

Then, Ia = Isc = IL=I (say)
Voltage across the load, V = Eg -I(IaRa)
Power generated, Pg = EgI
Power delivered to the load, PL = VI

Shunt Wound DC Generators

In these type of DC generators the field windings are connected in parallel with armature
conductors as shown in figure below. In shunt wound generators the voltage in the field winding is
same as the voltage across the terminal.
Let, Rsh = Shunt winding resistance
Ish = Current flowing through the shunt field
Ra = Armature resistance,

Ia = Armature current,

V = Terminal voltage,

Eg = Generated emf

IL = Load current

Here armature current Ia is dividing in two parts, one is shunt field current Ish and another is
load current IL. So, Ia=Ish + IL The effective power across the load will be maximum when IL will be
maximum. So, it is required to keep shunt field current as small as possible. For this purpose the
resistance of the shunt field winding generally kept high (100 ) and large no of turns are used for
the desired emf.
Shunt field current, Ish = V/Rsh
Voltage across the load, V = Eg-Ia Ra
Power generated, Pg= EgIa
Power delivered to the load, PL = VIL
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Compound Wound DC Generator

In series wound generators, the output voltage is directly proportional with load current. In
shunt wound generators, output voltage is inversely proportional with load current. A combination
of these two types of generators can overcome the disadvantages of both. This combination of
windings is called compound wound DC generator. Compound wound generators have both series
field winding and shunt field winding. One winding is placed in series with the armature and the
other is placed in parallel with the armature. This type of DC generators may be of two types- short
shunt compound wound generator and long shunt compound wound generator.
Short Shunt Compound Wound DC Generator
The generators in which only shunt field winding is in parallel with the armature winding as
shown in figure.

Series field current, Isc = IL,

Shunt field current, Ish = (V+Isc Rsc)/Rsh
Armature current, Ia = Ish + IL
Voltage across the load, V = Eg - Ia Ra - Isc Rsc
Power generated, Pg = EgIa
Power delivered to the load, PL=VIL
Long Shunt Compound Wound DC Generator
The generators in which shunt field winding is in parallel with both series field and winding
as shown in figure

armature. Shunt field current, Ish=V/Rsh

Armature current, Ia= series field current, Isc= IL+Ish
Voltage across the load, V=Eg-Ia Ra-Isc Rsc=Eg-Ia (Ra+Rsc) [Ia=Ics]
Power generated, Pg= EgIa
Power delivered to the load, PL=VIL
In a compound wound generator, the shunt field is stronger than the series field. When the
series field assists the shunt field, generator is said to be commutatively compound wound. On the
other hand if series field opposes the shunt field, the generator is said to be differentially compound
wound.

4. EMF equation of a DC generator

Consider a DC generator with the following parameters,
P = number of field poles
= flux produced per pole in Wb (weber)
Z = total no. of armature conductors
A = no. of parallel paths in armature
N = rotational speed of armature in revolutions per min. (rpm)
Now,

Average emf generated per conductor is given by d/dt (Volts) ... eq. 1
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Flux cut by one conductor in one revolution = d = P .(Weber),

Number of revolutions per second (speed in RPS) = N/60

Therefore, time for one revolution = dt = 60/N (Seconds)

From eq. 1, emf generated per conductor = d/dt = PN/60 (Volts) ..(eq. 2)

Above equation-2 gives the emf generated in one conductor of the generator. The conductors are
connected in series per parallel path, and the emf across the generator terminals is equal to the
generated emf across any parallel path.
Therefore,

Eg = PNZ / 60A

For simplex lap winding, number of parallel paths is equal to the number of poles (i.e. A=P),
Therefore, for simplex lap wound dc generator, Eg = PNZ / 60P
For simplex wave winding, number of parallel paths is equal to 2 (i.e P=2),
Therefore, for simplex wave wound dc generator, Eg = PNZ / 120

5.

Armature Reaction in DC machines

In a DC machine, two kinds of magnetic fluxes are present; 'armature flux' and 'main field
flux'. The effect of armature flux on the main field flux is called as armature reaction.
MNA and GNA
EMF is induced in the armature conductors when they cut the magnetic field lines. But,
there is an axis (or, you may say, a plane) along which armature conductors move parallel to the
flux lines and, hence, they do not cut the flux lines at the moment. MNA (Magnetic Neutral Axis)
may be defined as the axis along which no emf is generated in the armature conductors as they
move parallel to the flux lines. Brushes are always placed along MNA because reversal of current in
the
armature
conductors
takes
place
along
this
axis.
GNA (Geometrical Neutral Axis) may be defined as the axis which is perpendicular to the stator
field axis.
Armature reaction
The effect of armature reaction is well illustrated in the figure below.

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Consider, no current is flowing in the armature conductors and only the field winding is
energized (as shown in the first figure of the above image). In this case, magnetic flux lines due to
the field poles are uniform and symmetrical to the polar axis. The 'Magnetic Neutral Axis' (M.N.A.)
coincides with the 'Geometric Neutral Axis' (G.N.A.).
The second figure in the above image shows armature flux lines due to the armature current.
Now, in case the machine is running, both the fluxes (flux due to the armature conductors and flux
due to the field winding) will be present at a time. The armature flux superimposes with the main
field flux and, hence, disturbs the main field flux (as shown in third figure the of above image). This
effect is called as armature reaction in DC machines.
The adverse effects of armature reaction:
1. Armature reaction weakens the main flux. In case of a dc generator, weakening of the main
flux reduces the generated voltage.
2. Armature reaction distorts the main flux, hence the position of M.N.A. gets shifted (M.N.A.
is perpendicular to the flux lines of main field flux). Brushes should be placed on M.N.A.,
otherwise, it will lead to sparking at the surface of brushes. So, due to armature reaction, it
is hard to determine the exact position of M.N.A.
For a loaded dc generator, MNA will be shifted in the direction of the rotation. On the other
hand, for a loaded dc motor, MNA will be shifted in the direction opposite to that of the rotation.
How to reduce armature reaction?
Usually, no special efforts are taken for small machines (up to few kilowatts) to reduce the
armature reaction. But for large DC machines, compensating winding and interpoles are used to get
rid of the ill effects of armature reaction.
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We know that the armature reaction is due to the presence of armature flux. Armature flux is
produced due to the current flowing in armature conductors. Now, if we place another winding in
close proximity of the armature winding and if it carries the same current but in the opposite
direction as that of the armature current, then this will nullify the armature field. Such an additional
winding is called as compensating winding and it is placed on the pole faces. Compensating
winding is connected in series with the armature winding in such a way that it carries the current in
opposite direction.
Interpoles are the small auxiliary poles placed between the main field poles. Winding on the
interpoles is connected in series with the armature. Each interpole is wound in such a way that its
magnetic polarity is same as that of the main pole ahead of it. Interpoles nullify the quadrature axis
armature flux.
6.

Characteristics of DC Generators
Generally, following three characteristics of DC generators are taken into considerations: (i) Open
Circuit Characteristic (O.C.C.), (ii) Internal or Total Characteristic and (iii) External Characteristic.
These characteristics of DC generators are explained below.
1. Open Circuit Characteristic (O.C.C.) (E0/If)
Open circuit characteristic is also known as magnetic characteristic or no-load saturation
characteristic. This characteristic shows the relation between generated emf at no load (E0) and the
field current (If) at the given fixed speed. The O.C.C. curve is just the magnetization curve and it is
practically similar for all type of generators. The data for O.C.C. curve is obtained by operating the
generator at no load and keeping speed constant. Field current is varied and the corresponding
terminal voltage is recorded.
2. Internal or Total Characteristic (E/Ia)
The internal characteristic curve shows the relation between the on-load generated emf (Eg)
and the armature current (Ia). The on-load generated emf Eg is always less than E0 due to armature
reaction. Eg can be determined by subtracting the drop due to demagnetizing effect of armature
reaction from no-load voltage E0. Therefore, internal characteristic curve lies below O.C.C. curve.
3. External Characteristic (V/IL)
The external characteristic curve shows the relation between the terminal voltage (V) and load
current (IL). The terminal voltage V is less than generated emf Eg due to voltage drop in the
armature circuit. Therefore the external characteristic curve lies below the internal characteristic
curve. External characteristics are very important to determine the suitability of a generator for a
given purpose.
Characteristic of Separately Excited DC Generator
1. Magnetic or Open Circuit Characteristic of Separately Excited DC Generator
The curve which gives the relation between field current (If) and the generated voltage
(E0) in the armature on no load is called magnetic or open circuit characteristic of a DC
generator. The plot of this curve is practically same for all types of generators, whether they
are separately excited or self-excited. This curve is also known as no load saturation
characteristic curve of DC generator. Here in this figure below we can see the variation of
generated emf on no load with field current for different fixed speeds of the armature. For
higher value of constant speed, the steepness of the curve is more. When the field current is
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zero, for the effect residual magnetism in the poles, there will be a small initial emf (OA) as
show in figure.

Let us consider a separately excited DC generator giving its no load voltage E0 for a
constant field current. If there is no armature reaction and armature voltage drop in the machine
then the voltage will remain constant. Therefore, if we plot the rated voltage on the Y axis and
load current on the X axis then the curve will be a straight line and parallel to X-axis as shown
in figure below. Here, AB line indicating the no load voltage (E0).
When the generator is loaded then the voltage drops due to two main reasons1) Due to armature reaction, 2) Due to ohmic drop ( IaRa ).
2. Internal or Total Characteristic of Separately Excited DC Generator
The internal characteristic of the separately excited DC generator is obtained by
subtracting the drops due to armature reaction from no load voltage. This curve of actually
generated voltage ( Eg ) will be slightly dropping. Here, AC line in the diagram indicating the
actually generated voltage (E_g ) with respect to load current. This curve is also called total
characteristic of separately excited DC generator.
3.

External Characteristic of Separately Excited DC Generator

The external characteristic of the separately excited DC generator is obtained by
subtracting the drops due to ohmic loss ( Ia Ra ) in the armature from generated voltage ( Eg ).
Terminal voltage(V) = Eg - Ia Ra. This curve gives the relation between the terminal voltage
(V) and load current. The external characteristic curve lies below the internal characteristic
curve. Here, AD line in the diagram below is indicating the change in terminal voltage(V) with
increasing load current. It can be seen from figure that when load current increases then the
terminal voltage decreases slightly. This decrease in terminal voltage can be maintained easily by
increasing the field current and thus increasing the generated voltage. Therefore, we can get
constant terminal voltage.
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Characteristics of Series Wound DC Generator

Magnetic or Open Circuit Characteristic of Series Wound DC Generator
The curve which shows the relation between no load voltage and the field excitation current is called
magnetic or open circuit characteristic curve. As during no load, the load terminals are open circuited,
there will be no field current in the field since, the armature, field and load are series connected and these
three make a closed loop of circuit. So, this curve can be obtained practically be separating the field
winding and exciting the DC generator by an external source. Here in the diagram below AB curve is
showing the magnetic characteristic of series wound DC generator. The linearity of the curve will
continue till the saturation of the poles. After that there will be no further significant change of terminal
voltage of DC generator for increasing field current. Due to residual magnetism there will be a small initial
voltage across the armature that is why the curve started from a point A which is a little way up to the
origin O.

Internal Characteristic of Series Wound DC Generator

The internal characteristic curve gives the relation between voltage generated in the
armature and the load current. This curve is obtained by subtracting the drop due to the
demagnetizing effect of armature reaction from the no load voltage. So, the actual generated voltage
( Eg) will be less than the no load voltage (E0). That is why the curve is slightly dropping from the
open circuit characteristic curve. Here in the diagram below OC curve is showing the internal
characteristic or total characteristic of the series wound DC generator.
External Characteristic of Series Wound DC Generator
The external characteristic curve shows the variation of terminal voltage (V) with the load
current ( IL). Terminal voltage of this type of generator is obtained by subtracting the ohomic drop
due to armature resistance (Ra) and series field resistance ( Rsc) from the actually generated voltage (
Eg). Terminal voltage V = Eg - I(Ra + Rsc)

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The external characteristic curve lies below the internal characteristic curve because the
value of terminal voltage is less than the generated voltage. Here in the figure OD curve is showing
the external characteristic of the series wound DC generator.

Characteristic of Shunt Wound DC Generator

Magnetic or Open Circuit Characteristic of Shunt Wound DC Generator
This curve is drawn between shunt field current(Ish) and the no load voltage (E0). For a given
excitation current or field current, the emf generated at no load E 0 varies in proportionally with the
rotational speed of the armature. Here in the diagram the magnetic characteristiccurve for various
speeds are drawn. Due to residual magnetism the curves start from a point A slightly up from the
origin O. The upper portions of the curves are bend due to saturation. The external load resistance
of the machine needs to be maintained greater than its critical value otherwise the machine will not
excite or will stop running if it is already in motion. AB, AC and AD are the slops which give
critical resistances at speeds N1, N2 and N3. Here, N1 > N2 > N3.
Critical Load Resistance of Shunt Wound DC Generator
This is the minimum external load resistance which is required to excite the shunt wound
generator.

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Internal Characteristic of Shunt Wound DC Generator

The internal characteristic curve represents the relation between the generated voltage Eg and the
load current IL. When the generator is loaded then the generated voltage is decreased due to armature
reaction. So, generated voltage will be lower than the emf generated at no load. Here in the figure below
AD curve is showing the no load voltage curve and AB is the internal characteristic curve.
External Characteristic of Shunt Wound DC Generator
AC curve is showing the external characteristic of the shunt wound DC generator. It is showing the
variation of terminal voltage with the load current. Ohmic drop due to armature resistance gives lesser
terminal voltage the generated voltage. That is why the curve lies below the internal characteristic curve.
The terminal voltage can
always be maintained constant by adjusting the of the load terminal.

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Characteristics of DC Compound Generator

The above figure shows the external characteristic of DC compound generators. If series winding is
adjusted so that, increase in load current causes increase in terminal voltage then the generator is called to
be over compounded. The external characteristic for over compounded generator is shown by the curve AB
in above figure.
If series winding is adjusted so that, terminal voltage remains constant even the load current is increased,
then the generator is called to be flat compounded. The external characteristic for a flat compounded
generator is shown by the curve AC.
If the series winding has lesser number of turns than that would be required to be flat compounded, then the
generator is called to be under compounded. The external characteristics for an under compounded
generator is shown by the curve AD.
7.

Losses in a DC generator and DC motor

The various losses in a d.c. machine whether it is a motor or a generator are classified into three groups as :
1. Copper losses.
2. Iron or core losses.
3. Mechanical losses.
Copper Losses
The copper losses are the losses taking place due to the current flowing in a winding. There are
basically two windings in a d.c. machine namely armature winding and field winding. The copper losses
are proportional to the square of the current flowing through these windings. Thus the various copper losses
can be given by,

where
and

Ra = Armature winding resistance.

Ia = Armature current.

where
and

Rsh = Shunt field winding resistance.

Ish = Shunt field current
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where Rse = Series field winding resistance

and
Ise = Series field current
In a compound d.c. machine, both shunt and series field copper losses are present. In addition to the
copper losses, there exists brush contact resistance drop. But this drop is usually included in the armature
copper loss.
There are few losses which vary with the load but their relationship with the load current can not be
identified in simple manner. Such losses are called stray load losses and are the part of variable losses.
These occur in the windings and the core. These include copper stray load loss and iron stray load loss.
These stray load losses are difficult to measure or mathematically calculate hence practically taken as 1%
of the output for the d.c.machines. Many times these losses are neglected.
Iron or Core Losses
These losses are also called magnetic losses. These losses include hysteresis loss and eddy current loss.
The hysteresis loss is proportional to the frequency and the maximum flux density in the air gap and is
given by,

= Steinmetz hysteresis coefficient.

where V = Volume of core in m3.
f = Frequency of magnetic reversals.
This loss is basically due to reversal of magnetization of the armature core.
The eddy current loss exists due to eddy currents. When armature core rotates, it cuts the magnetic flux
and e.m.f. gets induced in the core. This induced e.m.f. sets up eddy currents which cause the power loss.
This loss is given by,

where

K = Constant
t = Thickness of each lamination.
V = Volume of core.
f = Frequency of magnetic reversals.
The hysteresis loss is minimized by selecting the core material having low hysteresis coefficient. While
eddy current loss is minimized by by selecting the laminated construction for the core.
These losses are almost constant for the d.c. machines.
Mechanical Loss
These losses consist of friction and windage losses. Some power is required to overcome mechanical
friction and wind resistance at the shaft. This loss is nothing but the friction and windage loss. The
mechanical losses are also constant for a d.c. machine.
The magnetic and mechanical losses together are called stray losses. For the shunt and compound d.c.
machines where field current is constant, field copper losses are also constant. Thus stray losses along with
constant field copper losses are called constant losses. While the armature current is dependent on the load
and thus armature copper losses are called variable losses.
Thus for d.c. machine,
Total losses = Constant losses + Variable losses
The Fig. 1 shows the various types of losses taking place in a d.c. machine.

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Fig. 1 Losses in a d.c. machine

8.

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.

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9. Efficiency of D.C. Machines:

Generator

20

21

22

10.

Applications of DC Generators

Applications of Separately Excited DC Generators

These types of DC generators are generally more expensive than self-excited DC generators
because of their requirement of separate excitation source. Because of that their applications are
restricted. They are generally used where the use of self-excited generators are unsatisfactory.
I.

Because of their ability of giving wide range of voltage output, they are
generally used for testing purpose in the laboratories.

II.

II. Separately excited generators operate in a stable condition with any

variation in field excitation. Because of this property they are used as supply
source of DC motors, whose speeds are to be controlled for various
applications. Example- Ward Leonard Systems of speed control.

Applications of Shunt Wound DC Generators

The application of shunt generators are very much restricted for its dropping voltage characteristic.
They are used to supply power to the apparatus situated very close to its position. These type of DC
generators generally give constant terminal voltage for small distance operation with the help of field
regulators from no load to full load.
I.
II.
III.
IV.

They are used for general lighting.

They are used to charge battery because they can be made to give constant
output voltage.
They are used for giving the excitation to the alternators
They are also used for small power supply.

Applications of Series Wound DC Generators

These types of generators are restricted for the use of power supply because of their increasing
terminal voltage characteristic with the increase in load current from no load to full load. We can clearly
see this characteristic from the characteristic curve of series wound generator. They give constant current in
the dropping portion of the characteristic curve. For this property they can be used as constant current
source and employed for various applications.
I.
II.
III.

They are used for supplying field excitation current in DC locomotives for regenerative
breaking.
This types of generators are used as boosters to compensate the voltage drop in the feeder
in various types of distribution systems such as railway service.
In series arc lightening this type of generators are mainly used.

Applications of Compound Wound DC Generators

Among various types of DC generators, the compound wound DC generators
are most widely used because of its compensating property. We can get desired
terminal voltage by compensating the drop due to armature reaction and ohmic drop
in the in the line. Such generators have various applications.
I.

Cumulative compound wound generators are generally used lighting,

power supply purpose and for heavy power services because of their
constant voltage property. They are mainly made over compounded.
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11.

II.

Cumulative compound wound generators are also used for driving a

motor.

III.

For small distance operation, such as power supply for hotels, offices,
homes and lodges, the flat compounded generators are generally used.

IV.

The differential compound wound generators, because of their large

demagnetization armature reaction, are used for arc welding where
huge voltage drop and constant current is required.

Critical Resistance and Critical Speed of DC Generator

Consider the field magnetization characteristics of a d.c. shunt generator shown in the Fig. 1.

Fig. 1 Concept of critical resistance

The Fig. 1 shows that generator voltage builds in step till point A. This point is intersection of field
resistance line with the open circuit characteristics (O.C.C.). The voltage corresponding to point A is the
maximum voltage it can generate. If the slope of field resistance line is reduced by decreasing the field
resistance, the maximum voltage generator can build will be higher than that corresponding to point A.
Similarly if the slope of field resistance line is increased by increasing the field resistance, the maximum
voltage generator can build will be less that that corresponding to point A i.e. corresponding to point B.
If now the slope of the field resistance line is increased in such a way that it becomes tangential to the
lower part of the open circuit characteristics. The voltage corresponding to this point is E C. This voltage is
just sufficient to drive the current through field resistance so that cumulative process of building the
voltage starts. This value of field resistance is called critical resistance denoted as R C, of the shunt field
circuit at given speed.
Note : If field circuit resistance is more than R C at start then induced e.m.f. fail to drive current through
field circuit and generator fails to excite at given speed.

The critical resistance is the slope of the critical resistance line.

24

Similar to the critical resistance there is a concept of critical speed. We know that E N. As speed
decreases the induced e.m.f. decreases and we get O.C.C. below the O.C.C. at normal speed. If we go on
reducing the speed, at a particular speed we will get O.C.C. just tangential to normal field resistance line.
Note : This speed at which the machine just excites for the given field circuit resistance is called the critical
speed of a shunt generator denoted as NC.
Practical Determination of RC
Generally data for plotting the open circuit characteristics is given. Plot the characteristics on the graph
paper to the scale.
Draw the tangent, to the initial part of this O.C.C. then the slope of this line is the critical resistance for
the speed at which the data is given.
Note : If speed changes, then the O.C.C. changes hence the value of RC changes.
Now if RC is asked at speed N2, while data for O.C.C. is given at N1. It is known that,

Note : Generate the data for O.C.C. at new speed and repeat the procedure to obtain RC.
Critical Speed
It is known that as speed changes, the open circuit characteristics also changes, similarly for different
shunt field resistances, the corresponding lines are also different.
Note : The speed for which the given field resistance acts as critical resistance is called the critical speed,
denoted as NC.
Thus if the line is drawn representing given R sh then O.C.C. drawn for such a speed to which this line
is tangential to the initial portion, is nothing but the critical speed NC.
Graphically critical speed can be obtained for given Rsh. The steps are,
1. Drawn O.C.C. for given speed N1.
2. Draw a line tangential to this O.C.C. say OA.
3. Draw a line representing the given Rsh say OP.
4. Select any field current say point R.
5. Draw vertical line from R to intersect OA at S and OP at T.
6. Then the critical speed NC is,

Fig. 2 Determine critical speed

25

12.

Voltage Building in Self Excited Generator

For every generator which is used as a self excited generator there must exist some residual
magnetic flux. When armature rotates, conductors cut this small residual flux to produce the e.m.f. E r. This
e.m.f. drives small current through field winding. Thus field current I f now produces more flux which is
greater than residual flux. Hence more e.m.f. gets induced. This further drives more current through field to
produce more flux.which is greater than residual flux. Hence more e.m.f. gets induced. This further drives
more current through field to produce more flux. This process is cumulative and continues till rated voltage
gets build up. This is shown in the Fig. 1.

Fig. 1 Voltage building in self excited generator

Causes of Failure to Excite Self Excited Generators

26

DC motor

A same DC machine can be used as a motor or generator. Construction of a DC motor is same as that of
a DC generator.
A motor is a device which converts an electrical energy into the mechanical energy . The energy conversion
process is exactly opposite to that involved in a d.c. generator. In a generator the input mechanical energy is
supplied by a prim mover while in a d.c. motor, input electrical energy is supplied by a d.c. supply. The
construction of a d.c. machine is same whether it is a motor or a generator.
Principle of Operation of a D.C. Motor
The principle of operation of a d.c. motor can be stated in a single statement as 'when a current
carrying conductor is placed in a magnetic field' it experiences a mechanical force'. In a practical d.c.
motor, field winding produces a required magnetic field while armature conductors play a role of a current
carrying conductors and hence armature conductors experience a force. As a conductors are placed in the
slots which are in the periphery, the individual force experienced by the conductors acts as a twisting or
turning force on the armature which is called a torque. The torque is the product of force and the radius at
which this force acts. So overall armature experiences a torque and starts rotating.
Back or Counter E.M.F.
After a motoring action, there exists a generating action. There is an induced e.m.f. in the rotating
armature conductors according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. This induced e.m.f. in the
armature always acts in the opposite direction of the supply voltage. This is according to the Lenz's law
which states that the direction of the induced e.m.f. is always so as to oppose the cause producing it. In a
d.c. motor, electrical input i.e. the supply voltage is the cause and hence this induced e.m.f. opposes the
supply voltage. This e.m.f. tries to set up a current through the armature which is in the opposite direction
to that, which supply voltage is forcing through the conductor.
So as this e.m.f. always opposes the supply voltage, it is called back e.m.f. and denoted as E b. Though
it is obtained as Eb, basically it gets generated by the generation action which we have seen earlier in case
of generation. So its magnitude can be determined by the e.m.f. equation which is derived earlier. So,

where all symbols carry the same meaning as seen earlier in case of generators.
Back E.M.F. as a Regulation Mechanism
Due to the presence of back e.m.f. the d.c. motor becomes a regulating machine i.e. motor adjusts itself
to draw the armature current just enough to satisfy the load demand. The basic principle of this fact is that
the back e.m.f. is proportional to speed, Eb N.
When load is suddenly put on to the motor, motor tries to slow down. So speed of the motor reduces
due to which back e.m.f. also decreases. So the net voltage across the armature (V- Eb) increases and
motors draws more armature current. As F= B l I, due to increased current, force experienced by the
conductors and hence the torque on the armature increases. The increase in the torque is just sufficient to
satisfy increased load demand. The motor speeds stops decreasing when the armature current is just enough
to produce torque demand by the new load.
When load on the motor is decreased, the speed of the motor tries to increase. Hence back e.m.f.
increases. This causes (V- Eb) to reduce which eventually reduces the current drawn by the armature. The
27

motor speed stops increasing when the armature current is just enough to produce the less torque required
by the new load.
Voltage Equation of a D.C. Motor
In case of a generator, generated e.m.f. has to supply armature resistance drop and remaining part is
available across the load as a terminal voltage. But in case of d.c. motor, supply voltage V has to overcome
back e.m.f. which is opposing V and also various drops as armature resistance drop, brush drop etc. Infact
the electrical work done in overcoming the back e.m.f. gets converted into the mechanical energy
developed in the armature. Hence the voltage equation of a d.c. motor can be written as,

Neglecting the brush drop, the generalised voltage equation is,

V = E b + Ia Ra
The back e.m.f. is always less than supply voltage (E b < V). But is very small hence under normal
running conditions, the difference between back e.m.f. and supply voltage is very small. The net voltage
across the armature is the difference between the supply voltage and back e.m.f. which decides the
armature current. Hence from the voltage equation we can write,

Examples 1 ; A 220 V , d.c. motor has an armature resistance of 0.75 . It is drawing an armature current
of 30 A, driving a certain load. Calculate the induced e.m.f. in the motor under this condition.
Solution : V = 200 V, = 30 A, = 0.75 are the given values.
For a motor, V = Eb + Ia Ra
220 = Eb + 30 x 0.75
Eb = 197.5 volts
This is the induced e.m.f. called back e.m.f. in a motor.
Example 2 ; A 4 pole, d.c. motor has lap connected armature winding. The flux per pole is 30 mWB. The
number of armature conductors is 250. When connected to 230 V d.c. supply it draws an armature current
of 40 A. Calculate the back e.m.f. and the speed with which motor is running. Assume armature resistance
is 0.6 .
Solution : P = 4, A = P = 4 as lap, V = 230 V, Z = 250
= 30 mWB = 30 x 10-3 WB
Ia = 40 A
From voltage equation, V = Eb + Ia Ra
230 = Eb + 40 x 0.6
Eb = 206 V
And
Eb = PNZ/ 60A
206 = (30 x 10-3 x 4 x N x 250)/ (60 x 4)
N = 1468 r.p.m.
Power Equation of a D.C. Motor
The voltage equation of a d.c. motor is given by,
V = E b + Ia Ra
Multiplying both sides of the above equation by Ia we get,
28

This equation is called power equation of a d.c. motor.

VIa = Net electrical power input to the armature measured in watts.
Ia2Ra = Power loss due the resistance of the armature called armature copper loss.
So difference between VIa and Ia2Ra i.e. input - losses gives the output of the armature.
So Eb Ia is called electrical equivalent of gross mechanical power developed by the armature. This is
denoted as Pm.
...
Power input to the armature - Armature copper loss = Gross mechanical power developed in the
armature.
Condition for Maximum Power
For a motor from power equation it is known that,
Pm = Gross mechanical power developed = Eb Ia
= VIa - Ia2Ra
For maximum Pm, dPm/dIa = 0
...

0 = V - 2IaRa

...

Ia = V/2Ra

i.e.

IaRa = V/2

Substituting in voltage equation,

V = Eb + IaRa = Eb + (V/2)
...

Eb = V/2

.................Condition for maximum power

Torque Equation of a D.C. Motor

It is seen that the turning or twisting force about an axis is called torque. Consider a wheel of radius R
meters acted upon by a circumferential force F newtons as shown in the Fig. 1.

Fig. 1
29

The wheel is rotating at a speed of N r.p.m. Then angular speed of the wheel is,
= (2N)/60

rad/sec

So workdone in one revolution is,

W = F x distance travelled in one revolution
= F x 2 R joules
And

P = Power developed = Workdone/Time

= (F x 2R) / (Time for 1 rev) = (F x 2R) / (60/N) = (F x R) x (2N/60)

...

P = T x watts
Where T = Torque in N - m
= Angular speed in rad/sec.

Let Ta be the gross torque developed by the armature of the motor. It is also called armature torque. The
gross mechanical power developed in the armature is Eb Ia, as seen from the power equation. So if speed of
the motor is N r.p.m. then,
Power in armature = Armature torque x

...
...

Eb Ia = x (2N/60)
but Eb in a motor is given by,
Eb = (PNZ) / (60A)
(PNZ / 60A) x Ia = Ta x (2N/60)

This is the torque equation of a d.c. motor.

Example 1 : A 4 pole d.c. motor takes a 50 A armature current. The armature has lap connected 480
conductors. The flux per pole is 20 mWb. Calculate the gross torque developed by the armature of the
motor.
Solution : P = 4, A = P = 4, Z = 480
= 20 mWb = 20 x 10-3 Wb, Ia = 50 A
Now Ta = 0.159 x Ia . (PZ/A) = 0.159 x 20 x 10-3 x 50 x (4x480/4)
= 76.394 N-m
30

Speed of a D.C. Motor

We know that the voltage equation of a motor is given by
V=Eb+IaRa
Eb = V -IaRa

31

Characteristics of DC motors
Generally, three characteristic curves are considered for DC motors which are,
(i)
(ii)
(iii)

Torque vs. armature current (Ta - Ia),

Speed vs. armature current and
Speed vs. torque. These are explained below for each type of DC
motor.
32

These characteristics are determined by keeping following two relations in mind.

Ta .Ia and N Eb/
Characteristics of DC series motors
Torque vs. armature current (Ta-Ia)
This characteristic is also known as electrical characteristic. We know that torque is directly proportional
to armature current and flux, Ta .Ia. In DC series motors, field winding is connected in series with
armature. Thus, before magnetic saturation of the field, flux is directly proportional to Ia. Therefore,
before magnetic saturation Ta Ia 2. At light loads, Ia as well as is small and hence the torque increases
as the square of the armature current. Therefore, the Ta-Ia curve is parabola for smaller values of Ia.
After magnetic saturation of the field winding, flux is independent of armature current Ia. Therefore, the
torque varies proportional to Ia only, T Ia.Therefore, after magnetic saturation, Ta-Ia curve becomes
straight
line.
The shaft torque (Tsh) is less than armature torque (Ta) due to stray losses.
In DC series motors, (prior to magnetic saturation) torque increases as the square of armature current, these
motors are used where high starting torque is required
Speed vs. armature current (N-Ia)
We know the relation, N Eb/
For small load current (and hence for small armature current) change in back emf Eb is small and it may be
neglected. Thus, for small currents speed is inversely proportional to . As we know, flux is directly
proportional to Ia, speed is also inversely proportional to Ia.
When armature current is very small the speed becomes dangerously high. That is why a series motor
should never be started without some mechanical load.
But, at heavy loads, armature current Ia is large. And hence speed is low which results in decreased back
emf Eb. Due to decreased Eb, more armature current is allowed.
Speed vs. torque (N-Ta)
This characteristic is also called as mechanical characteristic. From the above two characteristics of DC
series motor, it can be found that when speed is high, torque is low and vice versa.

33

Characteristics of DC shunt motors

Torque vs. armature current (Ta-Ia)
In case of DC shunt motors we can assume the field flux to be constant. Though at heavy loads,
decreases in a small amount due to increased armature reaction. But as we are neglecting the change in the
flux , we can say that torque is proportional to armature current. Hence the Ta-Ia characteristic for a dc
shunt motor will be a straight line through origin.
Since, heavy starting load needs heavy starting current, shunt motor should never be started on a heavy
load.
Speed vs. armature current (N-Ia)
As flux is assumed constant, we can say N Eb. But, back emf is also almost constant, the speed
remains constant. But practically, as well as Eb decreases with increase in load. But, the Eb decreases
slightly more than , and hence the speed decreases slightly. Generally, the speed decreases by 5 to 15% of
full load speed only. And hence, a shunt motor can be assumed as a constant speed motor.

Characteristics of DC compound motor

DC compound motors have both series as well as shunt windings. In a compound motor series and
shunt windings are connected such that series flux is in direction with shunt flux then the motor is
said to be cumulatively compounded. And if series flux is opposite direction as that of the shunt
flux, then the motor is said to be differentially compounded. Characteristics of both these types are
explained below.
(a) Cumulative compound motor
Cumulative compound motors are used where series characteristics are required but the load is
likely to be removed completely. Series winding takes care of the heavy load, whereas the shunt
winding prevents the motor from running at dangerously high speed when the load is suddenly
removed. These motors are generally employed a flywheel, where sudden and temporary loads are
applied like in rolling mills.
(b) Differential compound motor
Since in differential field motors, series flux opposes shunt flux, the total flux decreases with
increase in load. Due to this, the speed remains almost constant or even it may increase slightly
with increase in load. Differential compound motors are not commonly use, but they find limited
applications in experimental and research work.

34

Starting methods of a DC motor

Basic operational voltage equation of a DC motor is given as
E = Eb + IaRa and hence Ia = (E - Eb) / Ra
Now, when the motor is at rest, obviously, there is no back emf Eb, hence armature current will be high at
starting.
This excessive current will1. blow out the fuses and may damage the armature winding and/or commutator brush arrangement.
2. produce very high starting torque (as torque is directly proportional to armature current), and this high
starting toque will produce huge centrifugal force which may throw off the armature windings.
Thus to avoid above two drawbacks, starters are used for starting of DC machine.
Starting methods of a DC motor
Thus, to avoid the above dangers while starting a DC motor, it is necessary to limit the starting current.
For that purpose, starters are used to start a DC motor. There are various starters like, 3 point starter, 4 point
starter, No load release coil starter, thyristor starter etc.
The main concept behind every DC motor starter is, adding external resistance to the armature winding at
starting.
3 Point Starter-The internal wiring of a 3 point starter is as shown in the figure.

35

When motor is to be started, the lever is turned gradually to the right. When lever touches point 1, the field
winding gets directly connected across the supply, and the armature winding gets connected with
resistances R1 to R5 in series. Hence at starting full resistance is added in series with armature. Then as the
lever is moved further, the resistance is gradually is cut out from the armature circuit. Now, as the lever
reaches to position 6, all the resistance is cut out from the armature circuit and armature gets directly
connected across the supply. The electromagnet E (no voltage coil) holds the lever at this position. This
electromagnet releases the lever when there is no (or low) supply voltage.
When the motor is overloaded beyond a predefined value, overcurrent release electromagnet D gets
activated, which short circuits electromagnet E , and hence releases the lever and motor is turned off.
4 Point Starter:

The main difference between a 3 point starter and a 4 point starter is that the no voltage coil is not
connected in series with field coil. The field gets directly connected to the supply, as the lever moves
touching the brass arc. The no voltage coil (or Hold on coil) is connected with a current limiting resistance
Rh. This arrangement ensures that any change of current in the shunt field does not affect the current
through hold on coil at all. This means that electromagnet pull of the hold-on coil will always be sufficient
so that the spring does not unnecessarily restore the lever to the off position.
This starter is used where field current is to be adjusted by means of a field rheostat.
DC series motor starter:
Construction of DC series motor starters is very basic as shown in the figure. A start arm is simply
moved towards right to start the motor. Thus at first maximum resistance is connected in series with the
armature and then gradually decreased as the start arm moves towards right.
The no load release coil holds the start arm to the run position and leaves it at no load.

36

Swinburne's Test or No Load Test

This is indirect method of testing d.c. motors in which flux remains practically constant i.e. specially 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 starting some resistance is connected in series
with the armature which is cut when 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 the Fig. 1.

Fig. 1 Swinburnes's
The no load armature current Ia is measured by ammeter A1 whereas the shunt current is measured by
ammeter A2.
If V is the supply voltage then motor input at no load will be,

There will be Cu loss in the field winding which will be given as,

Let Ra be the resistance of armature,

Thus the stary losses which includes iron, friction and windage losses can be obtained as,
Stary lossses = Input at no load - Field copper losses - No load armature copper losses

37

In the field and armature windings there will be copper loss due to flow of current which will increase
the temperature of the field and armature winding when the motor is loaded. This increase in temperature
will affect their resistance.
Thus the new value of field resistance R'sh and that of armature R'a can be found by considering that
rise in temperature as about 40 oC.
If 1 = Resistance temperature coefficient of copper at room temperature

At room temperature the shunt field winding resistance will be,

Rsh = V/ Ish

Now shunt winding current, I'sh = V/R'sh

Now if we want to find the efficiency of the motor at say 1/4 th full load. It can be calculated as
follows,
Let

IF.L. = Full load current of motor

WF = Field copper loss
W = Stary losses

Load current at 1/4 th full load = IF.L./4

...

Motor input at 1/4 th full load = V x ( IF.L./4) watts.

Armature current at 1/4 th full load, I'a = ( IF.L./4) - I'sh

38

This is the efficiency of motor when the load on motor is 1/4 th of full load which can be found
without loading the motor. The efficiencies at other loads can be calculated similarly.
Advantages
1. Since constant losses are known, the efficiency can be estimated at any load.
2. The method is convenient and economical as less power is required for testing even a large motor i.e.
only no load power is to be supplied.
3. The motor is not required to be loaded i.e. only test to be carried out is the no load test.
Disadvantages
1. In this method, the iron losses are assumed to be constant which is not the true case a sthey change from
no load to full load. Due to armature reaction at full load there will be distortion in flux which will increase
the iron loass.
2. The only test which is carried out is the no load test. Hence it is difficult to know whether there will be
satisfactory communication at full load.
3. We have assumed that there is rise in temperature of 40 oC at full load which can not be checked
actually as we are not actually loading the motor.
4. As it is a no load test it can not be performed on a series motor.
Brake Test
Another method of testing the d.c. motor is brake test method. This is a direct method of testing the
motor. In this method, the motor is put on the direct load by means of a belt and pulley arrangement. Bu
adjusting the tension of belt, the load is adjusted to give the various values of currents. The load is finally
adjusted to get full load current. The power developed gets wasted against the friction between belt and
shaft. Due to the braking action of belt the test is called brake test.
The Fig. 1(a) shows the experimental setup for performing brake test on a d.c. shunt motor while the
Fig. 1(b) shows the belt and pulley arrangement mounted on the shaft of the motor.

39

Fig. 1 Brake test

The tension in the belt can be adjusted using the handle. The tension in kg can be obtained from the
spring balance readings.
Let R = Radius of pulley inmeter
N = Speed in r.p.m.
W1 = Spring balance reading on tight side in kg
W2 = Spring balance reading on slack side in kg
So net pull on the belt due to friction at the pulley is the difference between the two spring balance
readings.

As radius R and speed N are known, the shaft torque developed can be obtained as,

Hence the output power can be obtained as,

Now let, V = Voltage applied in volts

I = Total line current drawn in amps.

40

Thus if the readings are taken on full load condition then the efficiency can be obtained as,

Adjusting the load step by step till full load, number of readings can be obtained. The speed can be
measured by tachometer. Thus all the motor characteristics can be plotted.
Advantages
1. Actual efficiency of the motor under working conditions can be found out.
2. The method is simple and easy to perform.
3. Can be performed on any type of d.c. motor.

Disadvantages
1. Due to friction, heat generated and hence there is large dissipation of energy.
2. Some type of cooling arrangement is necessary
3. Convenient only for small machines due to limitations regarding heat dissipation arrangements.
4. The power developed gets wasted hence method is expensive.
5. The efficiency observed is on lower side.
Applications of D.C. Motors

41

Table 1

Speed control methods of DC motor

Speed control of Shunt motor
1. Flux control method

It is seen that speed of the motor is inversely proportional to flux. Thus by decreasing 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 field winding will increase the speed, as it will decrease the flux.
Field current is relatively small and hence I2R loss is small, hence this method is quiet efficient. Though
speed can be increased by reducing flux with this method, it puts a limit to maximum speed as weakening
of flux beyond the limit will adversely affect the commutation.
2. Armature control method

42

Speed of the motor is directly proportional to the back emf Eb and Eb = V- IaRa. That is when supply
voltage V and armature resistance Ra are kept constant, speed is directly proportional to armature current Ia.
Thus if we add resistance in series with armature, Ia decreases and hence speed decreases.
Greater the resistance in series with armature, greater the decrease in speed.
3. Voltage Control Method
A) Multiple voltage control: In this method the, shunt filed is connected to a fixed exciting voltage, and
armature is supplied with different voltages. Voltage across armature is changed with the help of a suitable
switchgear. The speed is approximately proportional to the voltage across the armature.
B) 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 required
in the figure beside.
M2 is the motor whose speed control is required.
M1 may be any AC motor or DC motor with constant speed.
G is the generator directly coupled to M1.
In this method the output from the generator G is fed to the armature of the motor M2 whose speed is to be
controlled. The output voltage of the generator G can be varied from zero to its maximum value, and hence
the armature voltage of the motor M2 is varied very smoothly. Hence very smooth speed control of motor
can be obtained by this method.
Speed control of series motor
1. Flux control method
A) Field divertor :

43

A veritable resistance is connected parallel to the series field as shown in fig (a). This variable resistor is
called as divertor, as desired amount of current can be diverted through this resistor and hence current
through field coil can be decreased. Hence flux can be decreased to desired amount and speed can be
increased.
B Armature divertor:
Divertor is connected across the armature as in fig (b).
For a given constant load torque, if armature current is reduced then flux must increase. As, Ta Ia
This will result in increase in current taken from the supply and hence flux will increase and
subsequently speed of the motor will decrease.
C) Tapped field control:
As shown in fig (c) field coil is tapped dividing number of turns. Thus we can select different value of by
selecting different number of turns.
D) Paralleling field coils:
In this method, several speeds can be obtained by regrouping coils as shown in fig (d).
2. Variable resistance in series with armature
By introducing resistance in series with armature, voltage across the armature can be reduced. And hence,
speed reduces in proportion with it.
3. Series-parallel control
This system is widely used in electric traction, where two or more mechanically coupled series motors are
employed. For low speeds, motors are joined in series, and for higher speeds motors are joined in parallel.
When in series, the motors have the same current passing through them, although voltage across each
motor is divided. When in parallel, voltage across each motor is same although current gets divided.

44