Doe Fundamentals Handbook: Electrical Science Volume 2 of 4

DOE-HDBK-1011/2-92
JUNE 1992
DOE FUNDAMENTALS HANDBOOK

ELECTRICAL SCIENCE
Volume 2 of 4
U.S. Department of Energy FSC-6910

Washington, D.C. 20585
Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This document has been reproduced directly from the best available copy.
Available to DOE and DOE contractors from the Office of Scientific and Technical
Information. P. O. Box 62, Oak Ridge, TN 37831; prices available from (615) 576-
8401. FTS 626-8401.
Available to the public from the National Technical Information Service, U.S.
Department of Commerce, 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22161.
Order No. DE92019786

ELECTRICAL SCIENCE
ABSTRACT
The Electrical Science Fundamentals Handbook was developed to assist nuclear facility
operating contractors provide operators, maintenance personnel, and the technical staff with the
necessary fundamentals training to ensure a basic understanding of electrical theory, terminology,
and application. The handbook includes information on alternating current (AC) and direct current
(DC) theory, circuits, motors, and generators; AC power and reactive components; batteries; AC
and DC voltage regulators; transformers; and electrical test instruments and measuring devices.
This information will provide personnel with a foundation for understanding the basic operation of
various types of DOE nuclear facility electrical equipment.
Key Words: Training Material, Magnetism, DC Theory, DC Circuits, Batteries, DC

Generators, DC Motors, AC Theory, AC Power, AC Generators, Voltage Regulators, AC
Motors, Transformers, Test Instruments, Electrical Distribution
Rev. 0 ES
ELECTRICAL SCIENCE
FOREWORD
The Department of Energy (DOE) Fundamentals Handbooks consist of ten academic

subjects, which include Mathematics; Classical Physics; Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer, and
Fluid Flow; Instrumentation and Control; Electrical Science; Material Science; Mechanical
Science; Chemistry; Engineering Symbology, Prints, and Drawings; and Nuclear Physics and
Reactor Theory. The handbooks are provided as an aid to DOE nuclear facility contractors.
These handbooks were first published as Reactor Operator Fundamentals Manuals in 1985
for use by DOE category A reactors. The subject areas, subject matter content, and level of detail
of the Reactor Operator Fundamentals Manuals were determined from several sources. DOE
Category A reactor training managers determined which materials should be included, and served
as a primary reference in the initial development phase. Training guidelines from the commercial
nuclear power industry, results of job and task analyses, and independent input from contractors
and operations-oriented personnel were all considered and included to some degree in developing
the text material and learning objectives.
The DOE Fundamentals Handbooks represent the needs of various DOE nuclear facilities'
fundamental training requirements. To increase their applicability to nonreactor nuclear facilities,
the Reactor Operator Fundamentals Manual learning objectives were distributed to the Nuclear
Facility Training Coordination Program Steering Committee for review and comment. To update
their reactor-specific content, DOE Category A reactor training managers also reviewed and
commented on the content. On the basis of feedback from these sources, information that applied
to two or more DOE nuclear facilities was considered generic and was included. The final draft
of each of the handbooks was then reviewed by these two groups. This approach has resulted
in revised modular handbooks that contain sufficient detail such that each facility may adjust the
content to fit their specific needs.
Each handbook contains an abstract, a foreword, an overview, learning objectives, and
text material, and is divided into modules so that content and order may be modified by individual
DOE contractors to suit their specific training needs. Each subject area is supported by a separate
examination bank with an answer key.
The DOE Fundamentals Handbooks have been prepared for the Assistant Secretary for
Nuclear Energy, Office of Nuclear Safety Policy and Standards, by the DOE Training
Coordination Program. This program is managed by EG&G Idaho, Inc.
Rev. 0 ES
ELECTRICAL SCIENCE
OVERVIEW
The Department of Energy Fundamentals Handbook entitled Electrical Science was

prepared as an information resource for personnel who are responsible for the operation of the
Department's nuclear facilities. A basic understanding of electricity and electrical systems is
necessary for DOE nuclear facility operators, maintenance personnel, and the technical staff to
safely operate and maintain the facility and facility support systems. The information in the
handbook is presented to provide a foundation for applying engineering concepts to the job. This
knowledge will help personnel more fully understand the impact that their actions may have on
the safe and reliable operation of facility components and systems.
The Electrical Science handbook consists of fifteen modules that are contained in four
volumes. The following is a brief description of the information presented in each module of the
handbook.
Volume 1 of 4
Module 1 - Basic Electrical Theory
This module describes basic electrical concepts and introduces electrical
terminology.
Module 2 - Basic DC Theory
This module describes the basic concepts of direct current (DC) electrical circuits
and discusses the associated terminology.
Volume 2 of 4
Module 3 - DC Circuits
This module introduces the rules associated with the reactive components of
inductance and capacitance and how they affect DC circuits.
Module 4 - Batteries
This module introduces batteries and describes the types of cells used, circuit
arrangements, and associated hazards.
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ELECTRICAL SCIENCE
Module 5 - DC Generators
This module describes the types of DC generators and their application in terms
of voltage production and load characteristics.
Module 6 - DC Motors
This module describes the types of DC motors and includes discussions of speed
control, applications, and load characteristics.
Volume 3 of 4
Module 7 - Basic AC Theory
This module describes the basic concepts of alternating current (AC) electrical
circuits and discusses the associated terminology.
Module 8 - AC Reactive Components
This module describes inductance and capacitance and their effects on AC
circuits.
Module 9 - AC Power
This module presents power calculations for single-phase and three-phase AC
circuits and includes the power triangle concept.
Module 10 - AC Generators
This module describes the operating characteristics of AC generators and
includes terminology, methods of voltage production, and methods of
paralleling AC generation sources.
Module 11 - Voltage Regulators
This module describes the basic operation and application of voltage regulators.
Volume 4 of 4
Module 12 - AC Motors
This module explains the theory of operation of AC motors and discusses the
various types of AC motors and their application.
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ELECTRICAL SCIENCE
Module 13 - Transformers
This module introduces transformer theory and includes the types of transformers,
voltage/current relationships, and application.
Module 14 - Test Instruments and Measuring Devices
This module describes electrical measuring and test equipment and includes the
parameters measured and the principles of operation of common instruments.
Module 15 - Electrical Distribution Systems
This module describes basic electrical distribution systems and includes
characteristics of system design to ensure personnel and equipment safety.
The information contained in this handbook is by no means all encompassing. An attempt
to present the entire subject of electrical science would be impractical. However, the Electrical
Science handbook does present enough information to provide the reader with a fundamental
knowledge level sufficient to understand the advanced theoretical concepts presented in other
subject areas, and to better understand basic system and equipment operations.
Rev. 0 ES
Department of Energy
Fundamentals Handbook
ELECTRICAL SCIENCE
Module 3
DC Circuits
DC Circuits TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIST OF FIGURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii
LIST OF TABLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
OBJECTIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v
INDUCTANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Inductors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
CAPACITANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Capacitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Capacitance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Types of Capacitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Capacitors in Series and Parallel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Capacitive Time Constant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
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LIST OF FIGURES DC Circuits
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1 Induced EMF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Figure 2 Induced EMF in Coils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Figure 3 Self-Induced EMF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Figure 4 Inductors in Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Figure 5 Inductors in Parallel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Figure 6 DC Current Through an Inductor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Figure 7 Time Constant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Figure 8 Voltage Applied to an Inductor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Figure 9 Inductor and Resistor in Parallel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Figure 10 Capacitor and Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Figure 11 Charging a Capacitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Figure 12 Discharging a Capacitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Figure 13 Capacitors Connected in Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Figure 14 Capacitors Connected in Parallel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Figure 15 Example 1 - Capacitors Connected in Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Figure 16 Example 2 - Capacitors Connected in Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Figure 17 Example 3 - Capacitors Connected in Parallel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Figure 18 Capacitive Time Constant for Charging Capacitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Figure 19 Capacitive Time Constant for Discharging Capacitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Figure 20 Example - Capacitive Time Constant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
ES-03 Page ii Rev. 0

DC Circuits LIST OF TABLES
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1 Types of Capacitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Rev. 0 Page iii ES-03

REFERENCES DC Circuits
REFERENCES
Gussow, Milton, Schaums Outline Series, Basic Electricity, McGraw-Hill.
Academic Program for Nuclear Power Plant Personnel, Volume IV, Columbia, MD:
General Physics Corporation, Library of Congress Card #A 326517, 1982.
Academic Program for Nuclear Power Plant Personnel, Volume II, Columbia, MD:
Nasar and Unnewehr, Electromechanics and Electric Machines, John Wiley and Sons.
Van Valkenburgh, Nooger, and Neville, Basic Electricity, Vol. 5, Hayden Book Company.
Lister, Eugene C., Electric Circuits and Machines, 5th Edition, McGraw-Hill.
Croft, Carr, Watt, and Summers, American Electricians Handbook, 10th Edition, McGraw-
Hill.
Mileaf, Harry, Electricity One - Seven, Revised 2nd Edition, Hayden Book Company.
Buban and Schmitt, Understanding Electricity and Electronics, 3rd Edition, McGraw-Hill.
Kidwell, Walter, Electrical Instruments and Measurements, McGraw-Hill.
ES-03 Page iv Rev. 0

DC Circuits OBJECTIVES
TERMINAL OBJECTIVE
1.0 Using the rules associated with inductors and capacitors, DESCRIBE the
characteristics of these elements when they are placed in a DC circuit.
ENABLING OBJECTIVES
1.1 DESCRIBE how current flow, magnetic field, and stored energy in an inductor
relate to one another.
1.2 DESCRIBE how an inductor opposes a change in current flow.
1.3 Given a circuit containing inductors, CALCULATE total inductance for series
and parallel circuits.
1.4 Given an inductive resistive circuit, CALCULATE the time constant for the
circuit.
1.5 DESCRIBE the construction of a capacitor.
1.6 DESCRIBE how a capacitor stores energy.
1.7 DESCRIBE how a capacitor opposes a change in voltage.
1.8 Given a circuit containing capacitors, CALCULATE total capacitance for series and
parallel circuits.
1.9 Given a circuit containing capacitors and resistors, CALCULATE the time
constant of the circuit.
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DC Circuits
Intentionally Left Blank
ES-03 Page vi Rev. 0

DC Circuits INDUCTANCE
INDUCTANCE
Experiments investigating the unique behavioral characteristics of inductance led

to the invention of the transformer.
EO 1.1 DESCRIBE how current flow, magnetic field, and stored

energy in an inductor relate to one another.
EO 1.2 DESCRIBE how an inductor opposes a change in

current flow.
EO 1.3 Given a circuit containing inductors, CALCULATE total

inductance for series and parallel circuits.
EO 1.4 Given an inductive resistive circuit, CALCULATE the

time constant for the circuit.
Inductors
An inductor is a circuit element

that will store electrical energy in
the form of a magnetic field. It is
usually a coil of wire wrapped
around a core of permeable
material. The magnetic field is
generated when current is flowing
through the wire. If two circuits
are arranged as in Figure 1, a
magnetic field is generated around
Wire A, but there is no
electromotive force (EMF) induced
into Wire B because there is no
relative motion between the
magnetic field and Wire B.
If we now open the switch, the

current stops flowing in Wire A,
and the magnetic field collapses.
As the field collapses, it moves
relative to Wire B. When this
occurs, an EMF is induced in Wire
B. Figure 1 Induced EMF
Rev. 0 Page 1 ES-03

INDUCTANCE DC Circuits
This is an example of Faradays Law, which states that a voltage is induced in a conductor when
that conductor is moved through a magnetic field, or when the magnetic field moves past the
conductor. When the EMF is induced in Wire B, a current will flow whose magnetic field
opposes the change in the magnetic field that produced it.
For this reason, an induced EMF is sometimes called counter EMF or CEMF. This is an
example of Lenzs Law, which states that the induced EMF opposes the EMF that caused it.
The three requirements for

inducing an EMF are:
1. a conductor,
2. a magnetic field,
and
3. relative motion
between the two.
The faster the conductor moves, or

the faster the magnetic field
collapses or expands, the greater
Figure 2 Induced EMF in Coils
the induced EMF. The induction
can also be increased by coiling
the wire in either Circuit A or Circuit B, or both, as shown in Figure 2.
Self-induced EMF is another

phenomenon of induction. The
circuit shown in Figure 3 contains
a coil of wire called an inductor
(L). As current flows through the
circuit, a large magnetic field is
set up around the coil. Since the
current is not changing, there is no
EMF produced. If we open the
switch, the field around the
inductor collapses. This collapsing
magnetic field produces a voltage
in the coil. This is called
self-induced EMF.
Figure 3 Self-Induced EMF
The polarity of self-induced EMF
is given to us by Lenzs Law.
The polarity is in the direction that opposes the change in the magnetic field that induced the
EMF. The result is that the current caused by the induced EMF tends to maintain the same
current that existed in the circuit before the switch was opened. It is commonly said that an
inductor tends to oppose a change in current flow.
ES-03 Page 2 Rev. 0

The induced EMF, or counter EMF, is proportional to the time rate of change of the current. The
proportionality constant is called the "inductance" (L). Inductance is a measure of an inductors
ability to induce CEMF. It is measured in henries (H). An inductor has an inductance of one
henry if one amp per second change in current produces one volt of CEMF, as shown in
Equation (3-1).
I
CEMF = L (3-1)
t
where
CEMF = induced voltage (volts)
L = inductance (henries)
I
= time rate of change of current (amp/sec)
t
The minus sign shows that the CEMF is opposite in polarity to the applied voltage.
Example: A 4-henry inductor is in series with a variable resistor. The resistance is increased
so that the current drops from 6 amps to 2 amps in 2 seconds. What is the CEMF
induced?
I
CEMF L
t
2A 6A
4
2
4( 2)
CEMF 8 volts
Inductors in series are combined

like resistors in series. Equivalent
inductance (Leq) of two inductors
in series (Figure 4) is given by
Equation (3-2).
Figure 4 Inductors in Series Leq = L1 + L2 + ... Ln (3-2)
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Inductors in parallel are combined like resistors in

parallel as given by Equation (3-3).
1 1 1 1
. . . (3-3)
Leq L1 L2 LN
When only two inductors are in parallel, as

shown in Figure 5, Equation (3-3) may be
simplified as given in Equation (3-4). As shown
in Equation (3-4), this is valid when there are
only two inductors in parallel. Figure 5 Inductors in Parallel
1 L1 L2
(3-4)
Leq L1 L2
Inductors will store energy in the form of a magnetic field. Circuits containing inductors will
behave differently from a simple resistance circuit. In circuits with elements that store energy,
it is common for current and voltage to exhibit exponential increase and decay (Figure 6).
Figure 6 DC Current Through an Inductor
ES-03 Page 4 Rev. 0

The relationship between values of current reached and the time it takes to reach them is called
a time constant. The time constant for an inductor is defined as the time required for the current
either to increase to 63.2 percent of its maximum value or to decrease by 63.2 percent of its
maximum value (Figure 7).
Figure 7 Time Constant
The value of the time constant is directly proportional to the inductance and inversely
proportional to the resistance. If these two values are known, the time constant can be found
using Equation (3-5).
L
TL (3-5)
R
where
TL = time constant (seconds)

R = resistance (ohms)
Rev. 0 Page 5 ES-03

The voltage drop across an inductor is directly proportional to the product of the inductance and
the time rate of change of current through the inductor, as shown in Equation (3-6).
I
VL = L (3-6)
t
where
VL = voltage drop across the inductor (volts)
I
= time rate of change of current (amp/sec)
t
After five time constants, circuit parameters normally reach their final value. Circuits that
contain both inductors and resistors are called RL circuits. The following example will illustrate
how an RL circuit reacts to changes in the circuit (Figure 8).
1. Initially, the switch is in

Position 1, and no current flows
through the inductor.
2. When we move the switch to

Position 2, the battery attempts to
force a current of 10v/100 =
0.1A through the inductor. But as
current begins to flow, the
inductor generates a magnetic
field. As the field increases, a
counter EMF is induced that
opposes the battery voltage. As a
steady state is reached, the counter
EMF goes to zero exponentially.
3. When the switch is returned to

Position 1, the magnetic field
collapses, inducing an EMF that
tends to maintain current flow in
the same direction through the
inductor. Its polarity will be
opposite to that induced when the
switch was placed in Position 2. Figure 8 Voltage Applied to an Inductor
ES-03 Page 6 Rev. 0

The example that follows shows how a circuit with an inductor in parallel with a resistor reacts
to changes in the circuit. Inductors have some small resistance, and this is shown schematically
as a 1 resistor (Figure 9).
1. While the switch is closed, a

current of 20 v/1 = 20 amps
flows through the inductor. This
causes a very large magnetic field
around the inductor.
2. When we open the switch, there is

no longer a current through the
inductor. As the magnetic field
begins to collapse, a voltage is
induced in the inductor. The
change in applied voltage is
instantaneous; the counter EMF is
of exactly the right magnitude to
prevent the current from changing
initially. In order to maintain the
current at 20 amps flowing
through the inductor, the
self-induced voltage in the
inductor must be enough to push
20 amps through the 101 of
resistance. The CEMF =
(101)(20) = 2020 volts.
3. With the switch open, the circuit

looks like a series RL circuit
without a battery. The CEMF
induced falls off, as does the Figure 9 Inductor and Resistor in Parallel
current, with a time constant TL of:
L
TL .
R
4H
TL 0.039 sec
101
Rev. 0 Page 7 ES-03

Summary
The important information on inductors is summarized below.
Inductance Summary
When an inductor has a DC current flowing through it, the inductor will store
energy in the form of a magnetic field.
An inductor will oppose a change in current flow by the CEMF induced when
the field collapses or expands.
Inductors in series are combined like resistors in series.
Inductors in parallel are combined like resistors in parallel.
The time constant for an inductor is defined as the required time for the
current either to increase to 63.2 percent of its maximum value or to decrease
by 63.2 percent of its maximum value.
ES-03 Page 8 Rev. 0

DC Circuits CAPACITANCE
CAPACITANCE
Because of the effect of capacitance, an electrical circuit can store energy, even
after being de-energized.
EO 1.5 DESCRIBE the construction of a capacitor.
EO 1.6 DESCRIBE how a capacitor stores energy.
EO 1.7 DESCRIBE how a capacitor opposes a change in

voltage.
EO 1.8 Given a circuit containing capacitors, CALCULATE total capacitance

for series and parallel circuits.
EO 1.9 Given a circuit containing capacitors and resistors,

CALCULATE the time constant of the circuit.
Capacitor
Electrical devices that are constructed of two metal plates separated by an insulating material,
called a dielectric, are known as capacitors (Figure 10a). Schematic symbols shown in Figures
10b and 10c apply to all capacitors.
Figure 10 Capacitor and Symbols
Rev. 0 Page 9 ES-03

CAPACITANCE DC Circuits
The two conductor plates of the capacitor, shown in Figure 11a, are electrically neutral, because
there are as many positive as negative charges on each plate. The capacitor, therefore, has no
charge.
Now, we connect a battery

across the plates (Figure
11b). When the switch is
closed (Figure 11c), the
negative charges on Plate
A are attracted to the
positive side of the battery,
while the positive charges
on Plate B are attracted to
the negative side of the
battery. This movement of
charges will continue until
the difference in charge
between Plate A and Plate
B is equal to the voltage of Figure 11 Charging a Capacitor
the battery. This is now a
"charged capacitor." Capacitors store energy as an electric field between the two plates.
Because very few of the charges

can cross between the plates, the
capacitor will remain in the
charged state even if the battery is
removed. Because the charges on
the opposing plates are attracted
by one another, they will tend to
oppose any changes in charge. In
this manner, a capacitor will
oppose any change in voltage felt
across it.
If we place a conductor across the

plates, electrons will find a path
back to Plate A, and the charges Figure 12 Discharging a Capacitor
will be neutralized again. This is
now a "discharged" capacitor (Figure 12).
ES-03 Page 10 Rev. 0

Capacitance
Capacitance is the ability to store an electrical charge. Capacitance is equal to the amount of
charge that can be stored divided by the applied voltage, as shown in Equation (3-7).
Q
C = (3-7)
V
where
C = capacitance (F)
Q = amount of charge (C)
V = voltage (V)
The unit of capacitance is the farad (F). A farad is the capacitance that will store one coulomb
of charge when one volt is applied across the plates of the capacitor.
The dielectric constant (K) describes the ability of the dielectric to store electrical energy. Air
is used as a reference and is given a dielectric constant of 1. Therefore, the dielectric constant
is unitless. Some other dielectric materials are paper, teflon, bakelite, mica, and ceramic.
The capacitance of a capacitor depends on three things.
1. Area of conductor plates
2. Separation between the plates
3. Dielectric constant of insulation material
Equation (3-8) illustrates the formula to find the capacitance of a capacitor with two parallel
plates.
A
C = K (8.85 x 10 12) (3-8)
d
where
C = capacitance
K = dielectric constant
A = area
d = distance between the plates
8.85 x 10-12 = constant of proportionality
Rev. 0 Page 11 ES-03

Example 1: Find the capacitance of a capacitor that stores 8 C of charge at 4 V.
Q
C
V
8
C
4
C 2F
Example 2: What is the charge taken on by a 5F capacitor at 2 volts?
Q C V
Q (5F) (2V)
Q 10C
Example 3: What is the capacitance if the area of a two plate mica capacitor is 0.0050 m2 and
the separation between the plates is 0.04 m? The dielectric constant for mica
is 7.
A
C K (8.85 x 10 12)
d
0.0050
C 7 (8.85 x 10 12)
0.04
C 7.74 x 10 12F
C 7.74 pF
Types of Capacitors
All commercial capacitors are named according to their dielectrics. The most common are air,
mica, paper, and ceramic capacitors, plus the electrolytic type. These types of capacitors are
compared in Table 1.

TABLE 1
Types of Capacitors
Dielectric Construction Capacitance Range
Air Meshed plates 10 - 400 pF
Mica Stacked Sheets 10 - 5000 pF
Paper Rolled foil 0.001 - 1 F
Ceramic Tubular 0.5 - 1600 pF
Disk Tubular 0.002 - 0.1 F
Electrolytic Aluminum 5 - 1000 F
Tantalum Aluminum 0.01 - 300 F
Capacitors in Series and Parallel
Capacitors in series are combined like resistors in parallel. The total capacitance, CT, of
capacitors connected in series (Figure 13), is shown in Equation (3-9).
Figure 13 Capacitors Connected in Series
1 1 1 1 1
. . . (3-9)
CT C1 C2 C3 CN

When only two capacitors are in series, Equation (3-9) may be simplified as given in Equation
(3-10). As shown in Equation (3-10), this is valid when there are only two capacitors in series.
C1 C2
CT = (3-10)
C1 C2
When all the capacitors in series are the same value, the total capacitance can be found by
dividing the capacitors value by the number of capacitors in series as given in Equation (3-11).
C
CT = (3-11)
N
where
C = value of any capacitor in series
N = the number of capacitors in series with the same value.
Capacitors in parallel are combined like resistors in series. When capacitors are connected in
parallel (Figure 14), the total capacitance, CT, is the sum of the individual capacitances as given
in Equation (3-12).
CT = C1 + C2 + C3 + ... + CN (3-12)
Figure 14 Capacitors Connected in Parallel

Example 1: Find the total capacitance of 3F, 6F, and 12F capacitors connected in series
(Figure 15).
1 1 1 1
CT C1 C2 C3
1 1 1
3 6 12
4 2 1
12 12 12
7
12
12
CT 1.7 f
7 Figure 15 Example 1 - Capacitors
Connected in Series
Example 2: Find the total capacitance and working voltage of two capacitors in series, when
both have a value of 150 F, 120 V (Figure 16).
C
CT
N
150
2
CT 75 f
Total voltage that can be applied across a group of

capacitors in series is equal to the sum of the working
voltages of the individual capacitors.
working voltage = 120 V + 120 V = 240 volts

Figure 16 Example 2 - Capacitors
Connected in Series

Example 3: Find the total capacitance of three capacitors in parallel, if the values are
15 F-50 V, 10 F-100 V, and 3 F-150 V (Figure 17). What would be the
working voltage?
CT C1 C2 C3
15 F 10 F 3 F
CT 28 F
The working voltage of a group of

capacitors in parallel is only as high as
the lowest working voltage of an
individual capacitor. Therefore, the
working voltage of this combination is
only 50 volts.
Figure 17 Example 3 - Capacitors Connected in Parallel

Capacitive Time Constant
When a capacitor is connected to a DC voltage source, it charges very rapidly. If no resistance

was present in the charging circuit, the capacitor would become charged almost instantaneously.
Resistance in a circuit will cause a delay in the time for charging a capacitor. The exact time
required to charge a capacitor depends on the resistance (R) and the capacitance (C) in the
charging circuit. Equation (3-13) illustrates this relationship.
TC = RC (3-13)
where
TC = capacitive time constant (sec)

R = resistance (ohms)
C = capacitance (farad)
The capacitive time constant is the time required for the capacitor to charge to 63.2 percent of
its fully charged voltage. In the following time constants, the capacitor will charge an additional
63.2 percent of the remaining voltage. The capacitor is considered fully charged after a period
of five time constants (Figure 18).

Figure 18 Capacitive Time Constant for Charging Capacitor
The capacitive time constant also shows that it requires five time constants for the voltage across
a discharging capacitor to drop to its minimum value (Figure 19).
Figure 19 Capacitive Time Constant for Discharging Capacitor

Example: Find the time constant of a 100 F capacitor in series with a 100 resistor
(Figure 20).
TC RC
TC (100 )(100 F)
TC 0.01 seconds
Figure 20 Example - Capacitive Time Constant
Summary
The important information on capacitors is summarized below.
Capacitance Summary
A capacitor is constructed of two conductors (plates) separated by a dielectric.
A capacitor will store energy in the form of an electric field caused by the
attraction of the positively-charged particles in one plate to the negatively-
charged particles in the other plate.
The attraction of charges in the opposite plates of a capacitor opposes a

change in voltage across the capacitor.
Capacitors in series are combined like resistors in parallel.
Capacitors in parallel are combined like resistors in series.
The capacitive time constant is the time required for the capacitor to charge
(or discharge) to 63.2 percent of its fully charged voltage.

ELECTRICAL SCIENCE
Module 4
Batteries
Batteries TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIST OF FIGURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
LIST OF TABLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v
OBJECTIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vi
BATTERY TERMINOLOGY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Voltaic Cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Electrode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Electrolyte . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Specific Gravity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Ampere-Hour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
BATTERY THEORY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Discharge and Charging of Lead-Acid Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
BATTERY OPERATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Series Cells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Parallel Cells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Primary Cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Secondary Cells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Internal Resistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Shelf Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Charge and Discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Rev. 0 Page i ES-04

TABLE OF CONTENTS Batteries
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Cont.)
TYPES OF BATTERIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Wet and Dry Cells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Carbon-Zinc Cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Alkaline Cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Nickel-Cadmium Cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Edison Cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Mercury Cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
BATTERY HAZARDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Shorted Cell . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Gas Generation . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Battery Temperature .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Summary . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Batteries LIST OF FIGURES
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1 Simple Hydrometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Figure 2 Basic Chemical Production of Electrical Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Figure 3 Electron Flow Through a Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Figure 4 Chemical Action During Discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Figure 5 Chemical Action During Charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Figure 6 Voltage and Specific Gravity During Charge and Discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Figure 7 Cells Connected in Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Figure 8 Cells Connected in Parallel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Figure 9 Internal Resistance in a Chemical Cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Figure 10 Internal Voltage Drop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

LIST OF TABLES Batteries
LIST OF TABLES
NONE

Batteries REFERENCES
REFERENCES
Hill.
Rev. 0 Page v ES-04

OBJECTIVES Batteries
TERMINAL OBJECTIVE
1.0 DESCRIBE the operating characteristics of a lead-acid battery to include methods of

voltage production, state of charge, and hazards associated with storage batteries.
ENABLING OBJECTIVES
1.1 DEFINE the following terms as they relate to batteries and voltaic cells:
a. Voltaic cell
b. Battery
c. Electrode
d. Electrolyte
e. Specific gravity
f. Ampere-Hour
1.2 STATE the purpose of a battery.
1.3 DESCRIBE the operation of a simple voltaic cell.
1.4 STATE the chemical equation for the reaction that occurs when a lead-acid battery is
being charged or discharged.
1.5 EXPLAIN the relationship between specific gravity and state of charge of a lead-acid
battery.
1.6 DESCRIBE the relationship between total battery voltage and cell voltage for a
series-connected battery.
1.7 STATE the advantage of connecting a battery in parallel with respect to current-carrying
capability.
1.8 STATE the difference between primary and secondary cells with respect to recharge
capability.

Batteries OBJECTIVES
ENABLING OBJECTIVES (Cont.)
1.9 STATE the advantage of each of the following types of batteries:

a. Carbon-zinc cell
b. Alkaline cell
c. Nickel-cadmium cell
d. Edison cell
e. Mercury cell
1.10 EXPLAIN the adverse effects of a shorted cell.
1.11 EXPLAIN how gas generation is minimized for a lead-acid battery.
1.12 EXPLAIN how heat is generated in a lead-acid battery.
Rev. 0 Page vii ES-04

Batteries
ES-04 Page viii Rev. 0

Batteries BATTERY TERMINOLOGY
BATTERY TERMINOLOGY
Batteries are used for a wide variety of services throughout technology today. To
begin to study battery operation and characteristics, a few terms that are used
with batteries must be understood.
EO 1.1 DEFINE the following terms as they relate to

batteries and voltaic cells:
a. Voltaic cell
b. Battery
c. Electrode
d. Electrolyte
e. Specific gravity
f. Ampere-Hour
Voltaic Cell
The term voltaic cell is defined as a combination of materials used to convert chemical energy
into electrical energy. A voltaic or chemical cell consists of two electrodes made of different
types of metals or metallic compounds placed in an electrolyte solution.
Battery
A battery is a group of two or more connected voltaic cells.
Electrode
An electrode is a metallic compound, or metal, which has an abundance of electrons (negative
electrode) or an abundance of positive charges (positive electrode).
Electrolyte
An electrolyte is a solution which is capable of conducting an electric current. The electrolyte
of a cell may be a liquid or a paste. If the electrolyte is a paste, the cell is referred to as a dry
cell; if the electrolyte is a solution, it is called a wet cell.
Specific Gravity
Specific gravity is defined as the ratio comparing the weight of any liquid to the weight of an
equal volume of water. The specific gravity of pure water is 1.000. Lead-acid batteries use an
electrolyte which contains sulfuric acid. Pure sulfuric acid has a specific gravity of 1.835, since
it weighs 1.835 times as much as pure water per unit volume.
Rev. 0 Page 1 ES-04

BATTERY TERMINOLOGY Batteries
Since the electrolyte of a lead-acid battery consists of a mixture of water and sulfuric acid, the
specific gravity of the electrolyte will fall between 1.000 and 1.835. Normally, the electrolyte
for a battery is mixed such that the specific gravity is less than 1.350.
Specific gravity is measured with a

hydrometer. A simple hydrometer
consists of a glass float inside a glass
tube, as shown in Figure 1. The
hydrometer float is weighted at one end
and sealed at both ends. A scale
calibrated in specific gravity is positioned
lengthwise along the body of the float.
The float is placed inside the glass tube,
and the fluid to be tested is drawn into
the tube. As the fluid is drawn into the
tube, the hydrometer float will sink to a
certain level in the fluid. The extent to
which the hydrometer float protrudes
above the level of the fluid depends on
the specific gravity of the fluid. The
reading on the float scale at the surface
of the fluid is the specific gravity of the
fluid.
Ampere-Hour
An ampere-hour is defined as a current

of one ampere flowing for one hour. If
you multiply the current in amperes by
the time of flow in hours, the result is the
total number of ampere-hours. Ampere-
hours are normally used to indicate the
amount of energy a storage battery can
deliver.
Figure 1 Simple Hydrometer
ES-04 Page 2 Rev. 0

Batteries BATTERY TERMINOLOGY
Summary
Battery terms are summarized below.
Battery Terminology Summary
A voltaic cell is a combination of materials used to convert chemical

energy into electrical energy.
A battery is a group of two or more connected voltaic cells.
An electrode is a metallic compound, or metal, which has an abundance

of electrons (negative electrode) or an abundance of positive charges
(positive electrode).
An electrolyte is a solution which is capable of conducting an electric

current.
Specific gravity is defined as the ratio comparing the weight of any liquid
to the weight of an equal volume of water.
An ampere-hour is defined as a current of one ampere flowing for one

hour.
Rev. 0 Page 3 ES-04

BATTERY THEORY Batteries
BATTERY THEORY
A battery converts chemical energy to electrical energy. This conversion enables

electrical power to be stored.
EO 1.2 STATE the purpose of a battery.
EO 1.3 DESCRIBE the operation of a simple voltaic cell.
EO 1.4 STATE the chemical equation for the reaction

that occurs when a lead-acid battery is being
charged or discharged.
EO 1.5 EXPLAIN the relationship between specific

gravity and state of charge of a lead-acid battery.
Batteries
The purpose of a battery is to store chemical energy and to convert this chemical energy into
electrical energy when the need arises.
As described in previous chapters, a chemical cell (or voltaic cell) consists of two electrodes of
different types of metals or metallic compounds and an electrolyte solution which is capable of
conducting an electric current.
A good example of a voltaic cell is one that contains zinc and copper electrodes. The zinc
electrode contains an abundance of negatively charged atoms, and the copper electrode contains
an abundance of positively charged atoms. When these electrodes are immersed in an electrolyte,
chemical action begins. The zinc electrode will accumulate a much larger negative charge
because it dissolves into the electrolyte. The atoms, which leave the zinc electrode, are positively
charged and are attracted by the negatively charged ions of the electrolyte; the atoms repel the
positively charged ions of the electrolyte toward the copper electrode (Figure 2).
ES-04 Page 4 Rev. 0

Batteries BATTERY THEORY
Figure 2 Basic Chemical Production of Electrical Power
This action causes electrons to be

removed from the copper
electrode, leaving it with an excess
of positive charge. If a load is
connected across the electrodes,
the forces of attraction and
repulsion will cause the free
electrons in the negative zinc
electrode to move through the
connecting wire and load, and
toward the positive copper
electrode (Figure 3).
The potential difference that

results allows the cell to function
as a source of applied voltage.
Figure 3 Electron Flow Through a Battery
Rev. 0 Page 5 ES-04

Discharge and Charging of Lead-Acid Battery
In a lead-acid battery, two types of lead are acted upon electro-chemically by an electrolytic
solution of diluted sulfuric acid (H2SO4). The positive plate consists of lead peroxide (PbO2), and
the negative plate is sponge lead (Pb), shown in Figure 4.
Figure 4 Chemical Action During Discharge
When a lead-acid battery is discharged, the electrolyte divides into H2 and SO4. The H2 will
combine with some of the oxygen that is formed on the positive plate to produce water (H2O),
and thereby reduces the amount of acid in the electrolyte. The sulfate (SO4) combines with the
lead (Pb) of both plates, forming lead sulphate (PbSO4), as shown in Equation (4-1).
discharge
PbO2 Pb 2H2SO4 2PbSO4 2H2O (4-1)
ES-04 Page 6 Rev. 0

As a lead-acid battery is charged in the reverse direction, the action described in the discharge
is reversed. The lead sulphate (PbSO4) is driven out and back into the electrolyte (H2SO4). The
return of acid to the electrolyte will reduce the sulphate in the plates and increase the specific
gravity. This will continue to happen until all of the acid is driven from the plates and back into
the electrolyte, as shown in Equation (4-2) and Figure 5.
Figure 5 Chemical Action During Charging
charge
PbO2 Pb 2H2SO4 2PbSO4 2H2O (4-2)
As a lead-acid battery charge nears completion, hydrogen (H2) gas is liberated at the negative
plate, and oxygen (O2) gas is liberated at the positive plate. This action occurs since the charging
current is usually greater than the current necessary to reduce the remaining amount of lead
sulfate on the plates. The excess current ionizes the water (H2O) in the electrolyte. Since
hydrogen is highly explosive, it is necessary to provide adequate ventilation to the battery
whenever charging is in progress. Also, no smoking, electric sparks, or open flames are allowed
near a charging battery.
Rev. 0 Page 7 ES-04

The decrease in specific gravity on discharge is proportional to the ampere-hours discharged.

While charging a lead-acid battery, the rise in specific gravity is not uniform, or proportional,
to the amount of ampere-hours charged (Figure 6).
Figure 6 Voltage and Specific Gravity During Charge and Discharge
The electrolyte in a lead-acid battery plays a direct role in the chemical reaction. The specific
gravity decreases as the battery discharges and increases to its normal, original value as it is
charged. Since specific gravity of a lead-acid battery decreases proportionally during discharge,
the value of specific gravity at any given time is an approximate indication of the batterys state
of charge. To determine the state of charge, compare the specific gravity, as read using a
hydrometer, with the full charge value and the manufacturers published specific gravity drop,
which is the decrease from full to nominal charge value.
Example: A lead-acid battery reads 1.175 specific gravity. Its average full charge specific
gravity is 1.260 and has a normal gravity drop of 120 points (or.120) at an 8 hour
discharge rate.
Solution:
Fully charged - 1.260
Present charge - 1.175
The battery is 85 points below its fully charged state. It is therefore about 85/120,
or 71%, discharged.
ES-04 Page 8 Rev. 0

Summary
Battery theory is summarized below.
Battery Theory Summary
The purpose of a battery is to store chemical energy and to convert this

chemical energy into electrical energy when the need arises.
A voltaic cell develops a potential difference when electrodes of two different

metals are immersed in an electrolyte. One electrode accumulates a positive
charge. The potential difference is due to the difference in charge between
the two electrodes.
The chemical equation for a lead-acid battery during discharge is:
discharge
PbO2 Pb 2H2SO4 2PbSO4 2H2O .
The chemical equation for a lead-acid battery during charge is:
charge
PbO2 Pb 2H2SO4 2PbSO4 2H2O .
When a lead-acid battery is discharged, electrolyte and the active material on

the plates of the battery are consumed to produce water and lead sulphate.
When a lead-acid battery is charged, electrical energy is added to the battery,

causing the water and lead sulphate to be consumed and produce electrolyte
and active material.
Since specific gravity of a lead-acid battery decreases proportionally during

discharge, the value of specific gravity at any given time is an approximate
indication of the batterys state of charge.
Rev. 0 Page 9 ES-04

BATTERY OPERATIONS Batteries
BATTERY OPERATIONS
Once the basic theory behind the operation of batteries is understood, we can
apply these concepts to better understand the way batteries are utilized.
EO 1.6 DESCRIBE the relationship between total battery

voltage and cell voltage for a series-connected
battery.
EO 1.7 STATE the advantage of connecting a battery in

parallel with respect to current-carrying
capability.
EO 1.8 STATE the difference between primary and

secondary cells with respect to recharge
capability.
Series Cells
When several cells are connected

in series (Figure 7), the total
voltage output of the battery is
equal to the sum of the individual
cell voltages. In the example of
the battery in Figure 7, the four
1.5V cells provide a total of
6 volts. When we connect cells in
series, the positive terminal of one
cell is connected to the negative
terminal of the next cell. The
current flow through a battery
connected in series is the same as
for one cell.
Figure 7 Cells Connected in Series

Batteries BATTERY OPERATIONS
Parallel Cells
Cells connected in parallel

(Figure 8), give the battery a
greater current capacity. When
cells are connected in parallel, all
the positive terminals are
connected together, and all the
negative terminals are connected
together. The total voltage output
of a battery connected in parallel
is the same as that of a single cell.
Cells connected in parallel have
the same effect as increasing the
size of the electrodes and
electrolyte in a single cell. The
advantage of connecting cells in
parallel is that it will increase the
current-carrying capability of the
battery.
Figure 8 Cells Connected in Parallel

Primary Cell
Cells that cannot be returned to good condition, or recharged after their voltage output has
dropped to a value that is not usable, are called primary cells. Dry cells that are used in
flashlights and transistor radios (e.g., AA cells, C cells) are examples of primary cells.
Secondary Cells
Cells that can be recharged to nearly their original condition are called secondary cells. The
most common example of a secondary, or rechargeable cell, is the lead-acid automobile battery.
Capacity
The capacity of a storage battery determines how long the storage battery will operate at a certain
discharge rate and is rated in ampere-hours. For example, a 120 ampere-hour battery must be
recharged after 12 hours if the discharge rate is 10 amps.

BATTERY OPERATIONS Batteries
Internal Resistance
Internal resistance in a chemical cell is due

mainly to the resistance of the electrolyte between
electrodes (Figure 9).
Any current in the battery must flow through the

internal resistance. The internal resistance is in
series with the voltage of the battery, causing an
internal voltage drop (Figure 10).
With no current flow, the voltage drop is zero;

thus, the full battery voltage is developed across
the output terminals (VB). If a load is placed on
the battery, load resistance (RL) is in series with
internal resistance (Ri).
Figure 9 Internal Resistance in a Chemical Cell
Figure 10 Internal Voltage Drop
When current flows in the circuit (IL), the internal voltage drop (ILRi) drops the terminal voltage
of the battery as shown in Equation (4-3). Thus, internal resistance reduces both the current and
voltage available to the load.
VL = VB - ILRi (4-3)

Batteries BATTERY OPERATIONS
Shelf Life
The shelf life of a battery is the time which a battery may be stored and not lose more than
10 percent of its original capacity.
Charge and Discharge
The charge of a battery may refer to as one of two things: (1) the relative state of capacity of
the battery, or (2) the actual act of applying current flow in the reverse direction to return the
battery to a fully-charged state.
Discharge, simply stated, is the act of drawing current from a battery.
Summary
Battery operations are summarized below.
Battery Operations Summary
The output voltage of a battery connected in series is equal to the sum of the cell
voltages.
A battery that is connected in parallel has the advantage of a greater current-

carrying capability.
Secondary cells can be recharged; primary cells cannot be recharged.
The unit for battery capacity is the ampere-hour.
Internal resistance in a battery will decrease the battery voltage when a load is
placed on the battery.
Shelf life is a term that is used to measure the time that a battery may sit idle
and not lose more than 10 percent of its charge.
The charge of a battery may refer to one of two things: (1) the relative state of
capacity of the battery, or (2) the actual act of applying current flow in the
reverse direction to restore the battery to a fully-charged condition.
Discharge refers to the act of drawing current from a battery.

TYPES OF BATTERIES Batteries
TYPES OF BATTERIES
The lead-acid battery is the most common type of battery in use today. There are
other types of storage batteries, each having certain advantages.
EO 1.9 STATE the advantage of each of the following

types of batteries:
a. Carbon-zinc cell
b. Alkaline cell
c. Nickel-cadmium cell
d. Edison cell
e. Mercury cell
Wet and Dry Cells
Wet and dry cells are classified by the type of electrolyte the battery uses. The electrolyte of a
cell may be a liquid or a paste. If the electrolyte is a paste, the cell is referred to as a dry cell.
If the electrolyte is a solution, the cell is called a wet cell.
Carbon-Zinc Cell
The carbon-zinc cell is one of the oldest and most widely used types of dry cells. The carbon
in the battery is in the form of a rod in the center of the cell which acts as the positive terminal.
The case is made from zinc and acts as the negative electrode. The electrolyte for this type of
cell is a chemical paste-like mixture which is housed between the carbon electrode and the zinc
case. The cell is then sealed to prevent any of the liquid in the paste from evaporating.
The advantage of a carbon-zinc battery is that it is durable and very inexpensive to produce. The
cell voltage for this type of cell is about 1.5 volts.
Alkaline Cell
The alkaline cell is so called because it has an alkaline electrolyte of potassium hydroxide. The
negative electrode is made from zinc, and the positive electrode is made of manganese dioxide.
The typical alkaline cell generates 1.5 volts. The alkaline cell has the advantage of an extended
life over that of a carbon-zinc cell of the same size; however, it is usually more expensive.

Batteries TYPES OF BATTERIES
Nickel-Cadmium Cell
The nickel-cadmium cell is a secondary cell, and the electrolyte is potassium hydroxide. The
negative electrode is made of nickel hydroxide, and the positive electrode is made of cadmium
hydroxide. The nominal voltage of a nickel-cadmium cell is 1.25 volts. The nickel-cadmium
battery has the advantage of being a dry cell that is a true storage battery with a reversible
chemical reaction (i.e., it can be recharged). The nickel-cadmium battery is a rugged, dependable
battery. It gives dependable service under extreme conditions of temperature, shock, and
vibration. Due to its dependability, it is ideally suited for use in portable communications
equipment.
Edison Cell
In an edison cell the positive plate consists of nickel and nickel hydrate, and the negative plate
is made of iron. The electrolyte is an alkaline. Typical voltage output is 1.4 volts, and it should
be recharged when it reaches 1.0 volts. The edison cell has the advantage of being a lighter and
more rugged secondary cell than a lead-acid storage battery.
Mercury Cell
Mercury cells come in two types; one is a flat cell that is shaped like a button, while the other
is a cylindrical cell that looks like a regular flashlight battery. Each cell produces about
1.35 volts. These cells are very rugged and have a relatively long shelf life. The mercury cell
has the advantage of maintaining a fairly constant output under varying load conditions. For this
reason, they are used in products such as electric watches, hearing aids, cameras, and test
instruments.

TYPES OF BATTERIES Batteries
Summary
Battery types are summarized below.
Battery Types Summary
If the electrolyte is a paste, the cell is referred to as a dry cell. If the

electrolyte is a solution, the cell is called a wet cell.
The advantage of a carbon-zinc battery is that it is durable and very

inexpensive to produce.
The alkaline cell has the advantage of an extended life over that of a
carbon-zinc cell of the same size.
The nickel-cadmium battery has the advantage of being a dry cell that is
a true storage battery with a reversible chemical reaction.
The edison cell has the advantage of being a lighter and more rugged
secondary cell than a lead-acid storage battery.
The mercury cell has the advantage of maintaining a fairly constant

output under varying load conditions.

Batteries BATTERY HAZARDS
BATTERY HAZARDS
Because batteries store large amounts of energy, there are certain hazards that
are associated with battery operation. These hazards must be fully understood to
ensure safe operation of batteries.
EO 1.10 EXPLAIN the adverse effects of a shorted cell.
EO 1.11 EXPLAIN how gas generation is minimized for

a lead-acid battery.
EO 1.12 EXPLAIN how heat is generated in a lead-acid

battery.
Shorted Cell
Cell short circuits can be caused by several conditions, which include the following: faulty
separators; lead particles or other metals forming a circuit between the positive and negative
plates; buckling of the plates; or excessive sediments in the bottom of the jar. The primary cause
of some of these occurrences is overcharging and overdischarging of the battery, which causes
sediment to build up due to flaking of active material and buckling of cell plates.
Overcharging and overdischarging should be avoided at all costs. Short circuits cause a great
reduction in battery capacity. With each shorted cell, battery capacity is reduced by a percentage
equal to one over the total number of cells.
Gas Generation
A lead-acid battery cannot absorb all the energy from the charging source when the battery is
nearing the completion of the charge. This excess energy dissociates water by way of electrolysis
into hydrogen and oxygen. Oxygen is produced by the positive plate, and hydrogen is produced
by the negative plate. This process is known as gassing.
Gassing is first noticed when cell voltage reaches 2.30-2.35 volts per cell and increases as the
charge progresses. At full charge, the amount of hydrogen produced is about one cubic foot per
cell for each 63 ampere-hours input. If gassing occurs and the gases are allowed to collect, an
explosive mixture of hydrogen and oxygen can be readily produced. It is necessary, therefore,
to ensure that the area is well ventilated and that it remains free of any open flames or spark-
producing equipment.

BATTERY HAZARDS Batteries
As long as battery voltage is greater than 2.30 volts per cell, gassing will occur and cannot be
prevented entirely. To reduce the amount of gassing, charging voltages above 2.30 volts per cell
should be minimized (e.g., 13.8 volts for a 12 volt battery).
Battery Temperature
The operating temperature of a battery should preferably be maintained in the nominal band of
60-80F. Whenever the battery is charged, the current flowing through the battery will cause
heat to be generated by the electrolysis of water. The current flowing through the battery (I) will
also cause heat to be generated (P) during charge and discharge as it passes through the internal
resistance (Ri), as illustrated using the formula for power in Equation (4-4).
P = I2Ri (4-4)
Higher temperatures will give some additional capacity, but they will eventually reduce the life
of the battery. Very high temperatures, 125F and higher, can actually do damage to the battery
and cause early failure.
Low temperatures will lower battery capacity but also prolong battery life under floating (i.e.,
slightly charging) operation or storage. Extremely low temperatures can freeze the electrolyte,
but only if the battery is low in specific gravity.

Batteries BATTERY HAZARDS
Summary
Battery hazards are summarized below.
Battery Hazards Summary
Short circuits cause a great reduction in battery capacity.
To prevent short circuits in a battery, overcharging and overdischarging

should be avoided at all costs.
The adverse effect of gassing is that if gassing occurs and the gases are
allowed to collect, an explosive mixture of hydrogen and oxygen can be
readily produced.
To reduce the amount of gassing, charging voltages above 2.30 volts per
cell should be minimized.
Whenever the battery is charged, the current flowing through the battery
will cause heat to be generated by the electrolysis of water and by I2Ri
power generation.
Higher temperatures will give some additional capacity, but they will
eventually reduce the life of the battery. Very high temperatures, 125F
and higher, can actually do damage to the battery and cause early failure.

BATTERY HAZARDS Batteries

ELECTRICAL SCIENCE
Module 5
DC Generators
DC Generators TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIST OF FIGURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
LIST OF TABLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v
OBJECTIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vi
DC EQUIPMENT TERMINOLOGY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Terminal Voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Counter-Electromotive Force . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Applied Voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Commutation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
DC EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Armature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Rotor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Stator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Field . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
DC GENERATOR THEORY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Voltage Production . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Theory of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Commutator Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Field Excitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Terminal Voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
DC Generator Ratings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Internal Losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Copper Losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Eddy-Current Losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Hysteresis Losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Mechanical Losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
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TABLE OF CONTENTS DC Generators
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Cont.)
DC GENERATOR CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Shunt-Wound DC Generators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Series-Wound DC Generators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Compound Generators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

DC Generators LIST OF FIGURES
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1 AC to DC Conversion with a Commutator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Figure 2 Basic DC Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Figure 3 Basic Operation of a DC Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Figure 4 Left-Hand Rule for Generators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Figure 5 Commutator Segments and Brushes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Figure 6 Commutation in a DC Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Figure 7 Varying Generator Terminal Voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Figure 8 Shunt-Wound DC Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Figure 9 Output Voltage-vs-Load Current for Shunt-Wound DC Generator . . . . . . . 14
Figure 10 Series-Wound DC Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Figure 11 Output Voltage-vs-Load Current for Series-Wound DC Generator . . . . . . . 15
Figure 12 Compounded DC Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Figure 13 Voltage-vs-Current for a Compounded DC Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

LIST OF TABLES DC Generators
LIST OF TABLES
NONE

DC Generators REFERENCES
REFERENCES
General Physics Corporation, Library of Congress Card #A 326517 1982.
Hill.
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OBJECTIVES DC Generators
TERMINAL OBJECTIVE
1.0 Given the type and application of a direct current (DC) generator, DESCRIBE the
operating characteristics of that generator including methods of voltage production,
advantages of each type, and voltage-vs-load characteristics.
ENABLING OBJECTIVES
1.1 DEFINE terminal voltage as it applies to DC generators.
1.2 DEFINE counter-electromotive force (CEMF) as it applies to a DC machine.
1.3 DESCRIBE the effects of commutation in a DC generator.
1.4 STATE the purpose of each of the following components of a DC machine:

a. Armature
b. Rotor
c. Stator
d. Field
1.5 LIST the three conditions necessary to induce a voltage into a conductor.
1.6 Using the left-hand rule of generators, DETERMINE the direction of the magnetic field,
the motion of the conductor, or the direction of current induced into a conductor.
1.7 DESCRIBE how terminal voltage of a DC generator is adjusted.
1.8 STATE the basis behind each of the four DC generator ratings.
1.9 LIST the four internal losses found in a DC generator.
1.10 DESCRIBE the differences in construction between a shunt-wound and a series-wound

DC generator with respect to the relationship between the field and the armature.
1.11 DESCRIBE the relationship between the shunt and series fields for cumulatively-
compounded and differentially-compounded DC generators.

DC Generators OBJECTIVES
ENABLING OBJECTIVES (Cont.)
1.12 DESCRIBE the voltage-vs-load current characteristics for a flat-compounded, over-

compounded, and under-compounded DC generator.
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DC Generators
ES-05 Page viii Rev. 0

DC Generators DC EQUIPMENT TERMINOLOGY
DC EQUIPMENT TERMINOLOGY
Direct current devices are used frequently in todays technology. Before the
construction and operation of these devices can be introduced, a few common
terms must be understood.
EO 1.1 DEFINE terminal voltage as it applies to DC

generators.
EO 1.2 DEFINE counter-electromotive force (CEMF) as

it applies to a DC machine.
EO 1.3 DESCRIBE the effects of commutation in a DC generator.
Terminal Voltage
Terminal voltage, as applied to DC generators, is defined as the voltage that can be measured at
the output of the generator.
Counter-Electromotive Force (CEMF)
In a generator using a rotating armature, the conductors cut the magnetic lines of force in the
magnetic field. Voltage is induced in the armature conductors. This induced voltage opposes
the applied voltage; it counteracts some of the applied voltage, which reduces the current flow
through the armature. This induced voltage acts counter to applied voltage; therefore, it is called
counter-electromotive force (CEMF).
Applied Voltage
Applied voltage is defined as the voltage that is delivered across the load. This voltage should
be the same as terminal voltage; however, various circuit faults and losses may reduce the
terminal voltage.
Commutation
Commutation is the positioning of the DC generator brushes so that the commutator segments
change brushes at the same time the armature current changes direction. More simply stated,
commutation is the mechanical conversion from AC to DC at the brushes of a DC machine, as
shown in Figure 1.
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DC EQUIPMENT TERMINOLGY DC Generators
Figure 1 AC to DC Conversion with a Commutator
In a DC generator, commutation provides for the conversion of AC to a DC output that is

generated in the armature windings. Commutation will be discussed in greater detail in
subsequent chapters.
Summary
DC equipment terms are summarized below.
DC Equipment Terminology Summary
Terminal voltage, as applied to DC generators, is defined as the voltage that can

be measured at the output of the generator.
Counter-electromotive force (CEMF) is defined as the induced voltage that acts

to counter the applied voltage in a DC motor or a DC generator.
Applied voltage is defined as the voltage that is delivered across the load.
Commutation is the positioning of the DC generator brushes so that the

commutator segments change brushes at the same time the armature current
changes direction.
In a DC generator, commutation provides for the conversion of AC to a DC

output that is generated in the armature windings.
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DC Generators DC EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTION
DC EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTION
Direct current machines are energy transfer devices. These machines can function
as either a motor or a generator. DC motors and generators have the same basic
construction, differing primarily in the energy conversion. To better understand
the operation and construction of DC machines, a few basic terms must be
understood.
EO 1.4 STATE the purpose of each of the following

components of a DC machine:
a. Armature
b. Rotor
c. Stator
d. Field
Armature
The purpose of the armature is to

provide the energy conversion in a
DC machine (refer to Figure 2).
In a DC generator, the armature is

rotated by an external mechanical
force, such as a steam turbine.
This rotation induces a voltage and
current flow in the armature.
Thus, the armature converts
mechanical energy to electrical
energy.
In a DC motor, the armature

receives voltage from an outside Figure 2 Basic DC Machine
electrical source and converts
electrical energy into mechanical
energy in the form of torque.
Rotor
The purpose of the rotor is to provide the rotating element in a DC machine (refer to Figure 2).
In a DC generator, the rotor is the component that is rotated by an external force. In a DC
motor, the rotor is the component that turns a piece of equipment. In both types of DC
machines, the rotor is the armature.
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DC EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTION DC Generators
Stator
The stator is the part of a motor or generator that is stationary (refer to Figure 2). In DC
machines, the purpose of the stator is to provide the magnetic field. The stator in Figure 2 is
provided by a permanent magnet.
Field
The purpose of the field in a DC machine is to provide a magnetic field for producing either a
voltage (generator) or a torque (motor) (refer to Figure 2). The field in a DC machine is
produced by either a permanent magnet or an electromagnet. Normally, electromagnets are used
because they have an increased magnetic strength, and the magnetic strength is more easily varied
using external devices. In Figure 2, the field is provided by the stator.
Summary
The construction of DC equipment is summarized below.
DC Equipment Construction Summary
The purpose of the armature is to provide the energy conversion in a DC

machine.
The purpose of the rotor is to provide the rotating element in a DC machine.
In DC machines, the purpose of the stator is to provide the field.
The purpose of the field in a DC machine is to provide a magnetic field for

producing either a voltage or a torque.
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DC Generators DC GENERATOR THEORY
DC GENERATOR THEORY
DC generators are widely used to produce a DC voltage. The amount of voltage

produced depends on a variety of factors.
EO 1.5 LIST the three conditions necessary to induce a

voltage into a conductor.
EO 1.6 Using the left-hand rule of generators,

DETERMINE the direction of the magnetic field,
the motion of the conductor, or the direction of
current induced into a conductor.
EO 1.7 DESCRIBE how terminal voltage of a DC

generator is adjusted.
EO 1.8 STATE the basis behind each of the four DC

generator ratings.
EO 1.9 LIST the four internal losses found in a DC

generator.
Voltage Production
Recall from Module 3, DC Circuits, that there are three conditions necessary to induce a voltage
into a conductor.
1. A magnetic field
2. A conductor
3. Relative motion between the two
A DC generator provides these three conditions to produce a DC voltage output.
Theory of Operation
A basic DC generator has four basic parts: (1) a magnetic field; (2) a single conductor, or loop;
(3) a commutator; and (4) brushes (Figure 3). The magnetic field may be supplied by either a
permanent magnet or an electromagnet. For now, we will use a permanent magnet to describe
a basic DC generator.
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DC GENERATOR THEORY DC Generators
Figure 3 Basic Operation of a DC Generator
A single conductor, shaped in the form of a loop, is positioned between the magnetic poles. As
long as the loop is stationary, the magnetic field has no effect (no relative motion). If we rotate
the loop, the loop cuts through the magnetic field, and an EMF (voltage) is induced into the loop.
When we have relative motion between a magnetic field and a conductor in that magnetic field,
and the direction of rotation is such that the conductor cuts the lines of flux, an EMF is induced
into the conductor. The magnitude of the induced EMF depends on the field strength and the
rate at which the flux lines are cut, as given in equation (5-1). The stronger the field or the more
flux lines cut for a given period of time, the larger the induced EMF.
Eg = KN (5-1)
where
Eg = generated voltage
K = fixed constant
= magnetic flux strength
N = speed in RPM
The direction of the induced current flow can be determined using the "left-hand rule" for
generators. This rule states that if you point the index finger of your left hand in the direction
of the magnetic field (from North to South) and point the thumb in the direction of motion of
the conductor, the middle finger will point in the direction of current flow (Figure 4). In the
generator shown in Figure 4, for example, the conductor closest to the N pole is traveling upward
across the field; therefore, the current flow is to the right, lower corner. Applying the left-hand
rule to both sides of the loop will show that current flows in a counter-clockwise direction in the
loop.
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Figure 4 Left-Hand Rule for Generators
Commutator Action
The commutator converts the AC

voltage generated in the rotating
loop into a DC voltage. It also
serves as a means of connecting
the brushes to the rotating loop.
The purpose of the brushes is to
connect the generated voltage to
an external circuit. In order to do
this, each brush must make contact
with one of the ends of the loop.
Since the loop or armature rotates,
a direct connection is impractical.
Instead, the brushes are connected
to the ends of the loop through the
commutator. Figure 5 Commutator Segments and Brushes
In a simple one-loop generator, the commutator is made up of two semicylindrical pieces of a

smooth conducting material, usually copper, separated by an insulating material, as shown in
Figure 5. Each half of the commutator segments is permanently attached to one end of the
rotating loop, and the commutator rotates with the loop. The brushes, usually made of carbon,
rest against the commutator and slide along the commutator as it rotates. This is the means by
which the brushes make contact with each end of the loop.
Rev. 0 Page 7 ES-05

Each brush slides along one half of the commutator and then along the other half. The brushes
are positioned on opposite sides of the commutator; they will pass from one commutator half to
the other at the instant the loop reaches the point of rotation, at which point the voltage that was
induced reverses the polarity. Every time the ends of the loop reverse polarity, the brushes
switch from one commutator segment to the next. This means that one brush is always positive
with respect to another. The voltage between the brushes fluctuates in amplitude (size or
magnitude) between zero and some maximum value, but is always of the same polarity
(Figure 6). In this manner, commutation is accomplished in a DC generator.
Figure 6 Commutation in a DC Generator
One important point to note is that, as the brushes pass from one segment to the other, there is
an instant when the brushes contact both segments at the same time. The induced voltage at this
point is zero. If the induced voltage at this point were not zero, extremely high currents would
be produced due to the brushes shorting the ends of the loop together. The point at which the
brushes contact both commutator segments, when the induced voltage is zero, is called the
"neutral plane."
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Field Excitation
The magnetic fields in DC generators are most commonly provided by electromagnets. A current
must flow through the electromagnet conductors to produce a magnetic field. In order for a DC
generator to operate properly, the magnetic field must always be in the same direction.
Therefore, the current through the field winding must be direct current. This current is known
as the field excitation current and can be supplied to the field winding in one of two ways. It
can come from a separate DC source external to the generator (e.g., a separately excited
generator) or it can come directly from the output of the generator, in which case it is called a
self-excited generator.
In a self-excited generator, the field winding is connected directly to the generator output. The
field may be connected in series with the output, in parallel with the output, or a combination
of the two.
Separate excitation requires an external source, such as a battery or another DC source. It is

generally more expensive than a self-excited generator. Separately excited generators are,
therefore, used only where self-excitation is not satisfactory. They would be used in cases where
the generator must respond quickly to an external control source or where the generated voltage
must be varied over a wide range during normal operations.
Terminal Voltage
DC generator output voltage is

dependent on three factors (recall
equation 5-1): (1) the number of
conductor loops in series in the
armature, (2) armature speed, and
(3) magnetic field strength. In
order to change the generator
output, one of these three factors
must be varied. The number of
conductors in the armature cannot
be changed in a normally
operating generator, and it is
usually impractical to change the
speed at which the armature
rotates. The strength of the Figure 7 Varying Generator Terminal Voltage
magnetic field, however, can be
changed quite easily by varying
the current through the field winding. This is the most widely used method for regulating the
output voltage of a DC generator (Figure 7).
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DC Generator Ratings
A DC generator contains four ratings.
Voltage: Voltage rating of a machine is based on the insulation type and design of
the machine.
Current: The current rating is based on the size of the conductor and the amount of
heat that can be dissipated in the generator.
Power: The power rating is based on the mechanical limitations of the device that
is used to turn the generator and on the thermal limits of conductors,
bearings, and other components of the generator.
Speed: Speed rating, at the upper limit, is determined by the speed at which
mechanical damage is done to the machine. The lower speed rating is
based on the limit for field current (as speed increases, a higher field
current is necessary to produce the same voltage).
Internal Losses
There are four internal losses that contribute to lower efficiency of a DC generator.
Copper losses
Eddy-current losses
Hysteresis losses
Mechanical losses
Each of these is described in the paragraphs that follow.
Copper Losses
Copper loss is the power lost as heat in the windings; it is caused by the flow of current through
the coils of the DC armature or DC field. This loss varies directly with the square of the current
in the armature or field and the resistance of the armature or field coils.
Armature: Ia2 Ra
Field: If2 Rf
Eddy-Current Losses
As the armature rotates within the field, it cuts the lines of flux at the same time that the copper
coils of wire that are wound on the armature cut the lines of flux. Since the armature is made
of iron, an EMF is induced in the iron, which causes a current to flow. These circulating
currents within the iron core are called eddy-currents.

To reduce eddy-currents, the armature and field cores are constructed from laminated (layered)
steel sheets. The laminated sheets are insulated from one another so that current cannot flow
from one sheet to the other.
Hysteresis Losses
Hysteresis losses occur when the armature rotates in a magnetic field. The magnetic domains
of the armature are held in alignment with the field in varying numbers, dependent upon field
strength. The magnetic domains rotate, with respect to the particles not held in alignment, by
one complete turn during each rotation of the armature. This rotation of magnetic domains in
the iron causes friction and heat. The heat produced by this friction is called magnetic hysteresis
loss.
To reduce hysteresis losses, most DC armatures are constructed of heat-treated silicon steel,
which has an inherently low hysteresis loss. After the heat-treated silicon steel is formed to the
desired shape, the laminations are heated to a dull red and then allowed to cool. This process,
known as annealing, reduces hysteresis losses to a very low value.
Mechanical Losses
Rotational or mechanical losses can be caused by bearing friction, brush friction on the
commutator, or air friction (called windage), which is caused by the air turbulence due to
armature rotation. Careful maintenance can be instrumental in keeping bearing friction to a
minimum. Clean bearings and proper lubrication are essential to the reduction of bearing friction.
Brush friction is reduced by assuring proper brush seating, using proper brushes, and maintaining
proper brush tension. A smooth and clean commutator also aids in the reduction of brush
friction.

Summary
DC generator theory is summarized below.
DC Generator Theory Summary
The three conditions necessary to induce a voltage into a conductor are:

- Magnetic field
- Conductor
- Relative motion between the two
The left-hand rule states that if you point the index finger of the left hand in the
direction of the magnetic field and point the thumb in the direction of motion of
the conductor, the middle finger will point in the direction of current flow.
The terminal voltage of a DC generator is adjusted by varying the field strength.

The voltage rating of a DC generator is based on the insulation type and design
of the machine.
The current rating of a DC generator is based on the size of the conductor and
the amount of heat that can be dissipated in the generator.
The power rating of a DC generator is based on the mechanical limitation of the

device that is used to turn the generator.
The upper speed rating of a DC generator is determined by the speed at which

mechanical damage is done to the machine. The lower speed rating is based on
the limit for field current.
There are four internal losses that contribute to lower efficiency of a DC

generator.
- Copper losses
- Eddy-current losses
- Hysteresis losses
- Mechanical losses

DC Generators DC GENERATOR CONSTRUCTION
DC GENERATOR CONSTRUCTION
A DC generator may be constructed in a variety of ways depending

upon the relationship and location of each of the fields. Each type of
construction contains certain advantages.
EO 1.10 DESCRIBE the differences in construction between a

shunt-wound and a series-wound DC generator with
respect to the relationship between the field and the
armature.
EO 1.11 DESCRIBE the relationship between the shunt and series

fields for cumulatively-compounded and differentially-
compounded DC generators.
EO 1.12 DESCRIBE the voltage-vs-load current characteristics for

a flat-compounded, over-compounded, and under-
compounded DC generator.
Shunt-Wound DC Generators
When the field winding of a

generator is connected in
parallel with the generator
armature, the generator is
called a shunt-wound
generator (Figure 8).
The excitation current in a

shunt-wound generator is
dependent upon the output
voltage and the field
resistance. Normally, field
excitation is maintained
between 0.5 and 5 percent
of the total current output of
the generator.
Figure 8 Shunt-Wound DC Generator

DC GENERATOR CONSTRUCTION DC Generators
The shunt-wound generator, running at a constant speed under varying load conditions, has a
much more stable voltage output than does a series-wound generator. Some change in output
voltage does take place. This change is caused by the fact that, as the load current increases, the
voltage drop (IaRa) across the armature coil increases, causing output voltage to decrease. As
a result, the current through the field decreases, reducing the magnetic field and causing voltage
to decrease even more. If load current is much higher than the design of the generator, the drop
in output voltage is severe. For load current within the design range of the generator, the drop
in output voltage is minimal (Figure 9).
Figure 9 Output Voltage-vs-Load Current for Shunt-Wound DC Generator

Series-Wound
DC Generators
When the field winding of a DC

generator is connected in series
with the armature, the generator
is called a series-wound
generator (Figure 10).
The excitation current in a

series-wound generator is the
same as the current the
generator delivers to the load.
If the load has a high resistance
and only draws a small amount
of current, the excitation
current is also small. Therefore,
the magnetic field of the series
field winding is weak, making Figure 10 Series-Wound DC Generator
the generated voltage low.
Conversely, if the load draws a large current, the excitation current is also high. Therefore,
the magnetic field of the series field winding is very strong, and the generated voltage is high.
As you can see in Figure 11, in a

series generator, changes in load
current drastically affect the
generator output voltage. A
series generator has poor voltage
regulation, and, as a result, series
generators are not used for
fluctuating loads. As is the case
for the shunt-wound generator, a
series-wound generator also
exhibits some losses due to the
resistance of the windings and
armature reaction. These losses
cause a lower terminal voltage
than that for an ideal
magnetization curve.
Figure 11 Output Voltage-vs-Load Current for Series-Wound
DC Generator

Compound Generators
Series-wound and shunt-wound

generators have a disadvantage in
that changes in load current cause
changes in generator output voltage.
Many applications in which
generators are used require a more
stable output voltage than can be
supplied by a series-wound or shunt-
wound generator. One means of
supplying a stable output voltage is
by using a compound generator.
The compound generator has a field

winding in parallel with the
generator armature (the same as a Figure 12 Compounded DC Generator
shunt-wound generator) and a field
winding in series with the generator armature (the same as a series-wound generator) (Figure 12).
The two windings of the compounded generator are made such that their magnetic fields will either
aid or oppose one another.
If the two fields are wound so that their flux fields oppose one another, the generator is said to be
differentially-compounded. Due to the nature of this type of generator, it is used only in special
cases and will not be discussed further in this text.
If the two fields of a compound generator are wound so that their magnetic fields aid one another,
the generator is said to be cumulatively-compounded. As the load current increases, the current
through the series field winding increases, increasing the overall magnetic field strength and
causing an increase in the output voltage of the generator. With proper design, the increase in
the magnetic field strength of the series winding will compensate for the decrease in shunt field
strength. Therefore, the overall strength of the combined magnetic fields remains almost
unchanged, so the output voltage will remain constant. In reality, the two fields cannot be made
so that their magnetic field strengths compensate for each other completely. There will be some
change in output voltage from the no-load to full-load conditions.

In practical compounded generators, the change in output voltage from no-load to full-load is
less than 5 percent. A generator with this characteristic is said to be flat-compounded (Figure
13).
Figure 13 Voltage-vs-Current for a Compounded DC Generator
For some applications, the series winding is wound so that it overcompensates for a change in
the shunt field. The output gradually rises with increasing load current over the normal
operating range of the machine. This type of generator is called an over-compounded generator.
The series winding can also be wound so that it undercompensates for the change in shunt field
strength. The output voltage decreases gradually with an increase in load current. This type of
generator is called an under-compounded generator.

Summary
DC generator construction is summarized below.
DC Generator Construction Summary
C A shunt-wound DC generator is constructed so that the field winding is in parallel

with the armature winding.
C The voltage of a shunt-wound DC generator decreases with an increase in load

current.
C A series-wound DC generator is constructed so that the field winding is in series

with the armature winding.
C The voltage of a series-wound DC generator increases sharply with an increase in

load.
C In a cumulatively-compounded DC generator, the series and shunt fields aid one

another.
C In a differentially-compounded DC generator, the series and shunt fields oppose

one another.
C The voltage of a flat-compounded DC generator changes less than 5 percent from

no-load to full-load.
C The voltage of an over-compounded DC generator gradually rises with an

increasing load.

ELECTRICAL SCIENCE
Module 6
DC Motors
DC Motors TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIST OF FIGURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii
LIST OF TABLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
OBJECTIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v
DC MOTOR THEORY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Inducing a Force on a Conductor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Theory of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Torque . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Generator Action in a Motor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
DC Motor Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
TYPES OF DC MOTORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
DC Motor Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Shunt-Wound Motor Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Shunt-Wound Motor Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Series-Wound Motor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Series-Wound Motor Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Compounded Motor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
DC MOTOR OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Starting of DC Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
DC Motor Ratings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Rev. 0 Page i ES-06

LIST OF FIGURES DC Motors
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1 Left-Hand Rule for Current-Carrying Conductors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Figure 2 Current-Carrying Conductor in a Magnetic Field . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Figure 3 Motor Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Figure 4 Right-Hand Rule for Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Figure 5 Armature Current in a Basic DC Motor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Figure 6 Counterelectromotive Force (CEMF) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Figure 7 DC Motor Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Figure 8 Torque-vs-Speed for a Shunt-Wound DC Motor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Figure 9 Torque-vs-Speed for a Series-Wound Motor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

DC Motors LIST OF TABLES
LIST OF TABLES
NONE

REFERENCES DC Motors
REFERENCES
Hill.

DC Motors OBJECTIVES
TERMINAL OBJECTIVE
1.0 Given the type and application of a DC motor, DESCRIBE the operating
characteristics of that motor to include methods of speed variation, advantages of
each type, and torque vs speed characteristics.
ENABLING OBJECTIVES
1.1 Using the right-hand rule for motors, DETERMINE the direction of the magnetic field,
direction of current flow, or force on a conductor.
1.2 STATE the function of torque in a direct current motor and how it is developed.
1.3 DESCRIBE how Counterelectromotive Force (CEMF) is developed in a DC motor.
1.4 DESCRIBE the relationship between field current and magnetic field size in a DC motor.
1.5 STATE the function of the CEMF that is developed in a DC motor.
1.6 DESCRIBE how the speed of a DC motor is adjusted.
1.7 DESCRIBE the relationship between armature current and torque produced in a DC
motor.
1.8 DESCRIBE the differences in construction between a shunt-wound and a series-wound

DC motor with respect to the relationship between the field and the armature windings.
1.9 DESCRIBE the construction of a compounded DC motor.
1.10 DESCRIBE the torque-vs-speed characteristics for a shunt-wound and a series-wound DC

motor.
1.11 EXPLAIN why starting resistors are necessary for large DC motors.
1.12 LIST the four nameplate ratings for a DC motor.
Rev. 0 Page v ES-06

DC Motors

DC Motors DC MOTOR THEORY
DC MOTOR THEORY
DC motors are widely used to drive various equipment. The speed

and torque produced in a DC motor depends on a variety of factors.
EO 1.1 Using the right-hand rule for motors, DETERMINE the

direction of the magnetic field, direction of current flow,
or force on a conductor.
EO 1.2 STATE the function of torque in a direct current motor

and how it is developed.
EO 1.3 DESCRIBE how Counterelectromotive Force (CEMF) is

developed in a DC motor.
EO 1.4 DESCRIBE the relationship between field current and

magnetic field size in a DC motor.
EO 1.5 STATE the function of the CEMF that is developed in

a DC motor.
EO 1.6 DESCRIBE how the speed of a DC motor is adjusted.
EO 1.7 DESCRIBE the relationship between armature current

and torque produced in a DC motor.
Inducing a Force on a Conductor
There are two conditions which are necessary to produce a force on a conductor.
The conductor must be carrying current.
The conductor must be within a magnetic field.
When these two conditions exist, a force will be applied to the conductor, which will attempt to
move the conductor in a direction perpendicular to the magnetic field. This is the basic theory
by which all DC motors operate.
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DC MOTOR THEORY DC Motors
Theory of Operation
Every current-carrying conductor has a magnetic

field around it. The direction of this magnetic
field may be found by using the left-hand rule for
current-carrying conductors. When the thumb
points in the direction of current flow, the fingers
will point in the direction of the magnetic field
produced, as shown in Figure 1.
If a current-carrying conductor is placed in a

magnetic field, the combined fields will be
similar to those shown in Figure 2. The direction
of current flow through the conductor is indicated
with an "x" or a "". The "x" indicates the Figure 1 Left-Hand Rule for
current flow is away from the reader, or into the Current-Carrying Conductors
page. The "" indicates the current flow is
towards the reader, or out of the page.
Figure 2 Current-Carrying Conductor in a Magnetic Field
Above the conductor on the left, the field caused by the conductor is in the opposite direction
of the main field, and therefore, opposes the main field. Below the conductor on the left, the
field caused by the conductor is in the same direction as the main field, and therefore, aids the
main field. The net result is that above the conductor the main field is weakened, or flux density
is decreased; below the conductor the field is strengthened, or flux density is increased. A force
is developed on the conductor that moves the conductor in the direction of the weakened field
(upward).
ES-06 Page 2 Rev. 0

Above the conductor on the right, the field caused by the conductor is in the same direction as
the main field, and therefore, aids the main field. Below the conductor on the right, the field
caused by the conductor is in the opposite direction of the main field, and therefore, opposes the
main field. The net result is that above the conductor the field is strengthened, or flux density
is increased, and below the conductor, the field is weakened, or flux density is decreased. A
force is developed on the conductor that moves the conductor in the direction of the weakened
field (downward).
In a DC motor, the conductor will be formed

in a loop such that two parts of the conductor
are in the magnetic field at the same time, as
shown in Figure 3.
This combines the effects of both conductors

to distort the main magnetic field and produce
a force on each part of the conductor. When
the conductor is placed on a rotor, the force
exerted on the conductors will cause the rotor
to rotate clockwise, as shown on Figure 3.
You can think of these magnetic lines of force

as rubber bands that are always trying to
Figure 3 Motor Action shorten themselves. The lines of force above
the conductor exert a downward force due to
the magnetic lines of force trying to straighten themselves.
The above explanation of how a

force is developed is convenient;
however, it is somewhat artificial.
It is based on a fundamental
principle of physics which may be
stated as follows:
"A current-carrying conductor in a

magnetic field tends to move at
right angles to that field."
Another important way to show

the relationship between the
current-carrying conductor,
magnetic field, and motion, is the
right-hand rule for motors, as
shown in Figure 4.
Figure 4 Right-Hand Rule for Motors
Rev. 0 Page 3 ES-06

The right-hand rule for motors shows the direction in which a current-carrying conductor moves
in a magnetic field. When the forefinger is pointed in the direction of the magnetic field lines,
and the center finger is pointed in the direction of current flow, the thumb will point in the
direction of force (motion).
Torque
Torque is defined as that force which tends to produce and maintain rotation. The function of
torque in a DC motor is to provide the mechanical output or drive the piece of equipment that
the DC motor is attached to.
When a voltage is applied to a

motor, current will flow through
the field winding, establishing a
magnetic field. Current will also
flow through the armature
winding, from the negative brush
to the positive brush as shown in
Figure 5.
Since the armature is a current-

carrying conductor in a magnetic
field, the conductor has a force
exerted on it, tending to move it at
right angles to that field. Using
the left-hand rule for current-
carrying conductors, you will see
that the magnetic field on one side
is strengthened at the bottom,
Figure 5 Armature Current in a Basic DC Motor
while it is weakened on the other
side. Using the right-hand rule for
motors, we can see that there is a force exerted on the armature which tends to turn the armature
in the counter-clockwise direction. The sum of the forces, in pounds, multiplied by the radius
of the armature, in feet, is equal to the torque developed by the motor in pound-feet (1b - ft).
It is evident from Figure 5 that if the armature current were reversed, but the field were the same,
torque would be developed in the opposite direction. Likewise, if the field polarity were reversed
and the armature remained the same, torque would also be developed in the opposite direction.
The force that is developed on a conductor of a motor armature is due to the combined action
of the magnetic fields. The force developed is directly proportional to the strength of the main
field flux and the strength of the field around the armature conductor. As we know, the field
strength around each armature conductor depends on the amount of current flowing through the
armature conductor. Therefore, the torque which is developed by the motor can be determined
using Equation (6-1).
ES-06 Page 4 Rev. 0

T = KIa (6-1)
where
T = torque, lb-ft
K = a constant depending on physical size of motor
= field flux, number of lines of force per pole
Ia = armature current
Generator Action in a Motor
A generator action is developed in every

motor. When a conductor cuts lines of force,
an EMF is induced in that conductor.
Current to start the armature turning will flow

in the direction determined by the applied DC
power source. After rotation starts, the
conductor cuts lines of force. By applying
the left-hand rule for generators, the EMF that
is induced in the armature will produce a
current in the opposite direction. The induced
EMF, as a result of motor operation, is called
counterelectromotive force, or CEMF, as
illustrated in Figure 6.
Figure 6 Counterelectromotive Force (CEMF)
Since the CEMF is generated by the action of
the armature cutting lines of force, the value of CEMF will depend on field strength and armature
speed, as shown in Equation (6-2).
ECEMF = KN (6-2)
where
ECEMF = counter EMF

K = constant
= field flux strength
N = speed of the armature
The CEMF opposes the applied voltage and functions to lower armature current. The effective
voltage acting in the armature of a motor is the applied voltage, minus the counter EMF.
Armature current can be found by using Ohms law, as shown in Equation (6-3).
Rev. 0 Page 5 ES-06

Et ECEMF
Ia (6-3)
Ra
where
Ia = armature current
Et = terminal voltage
ECEMF = counter EMF
Ra = armature resistance
DC Motor Speed
The field of a DC motor is varied using external devices, usually field resistors. For a constant
applied voltage to the field (E), as the resistance of the field (Rf) is lowered, the amount of
current flow through the field (If) increases as shown by Ohms law in Equation (6-4).

E
If (6-4)
Rf
An increase in field current will cause field flux (f) to increase. Conversely, if the resistance
of the field is increased, field flux will decrease. If the field flux of a DC motor is decreased,
the motor speed will increase. The reduction of field strength reduces the CEMF of the motor,
since fewer lines of flux are being cut by the armature conductors, as shown in Equation (6-5).

ECEMF K F N (6-5)
A reduction of counter EMF allows an increase in armature current as shown in Equation (6-6).

Et ECEMF
Ia (6-6)

Ra
This increase in armature current causes a larger torque to be developed; the increase in armature
current more than offsets the decrease in field flux as shown in Equation (6-7).

T K F I a (6-7)
This increased torque causes the motor to increase in speed.
T N
ES-06 Page 6 Rev. 0

This increase in speed will then proportionately increase the CEMF. The speed and CEMF will
continue to increase until the armature current and torque are reduced to values just large enough
to supply the load at a new constant speed.
Summary
DC motor theory is summarized below.
DC Motor Theory Summary
There are two conditions necessary to produce a force on a conductor:
- The conductor must be carrying current.

- The conductor must be within a magnetic field.
The right-hand rule for motors states that when the forefinger is pointed in the
direction of the magnetic field lines, and the center finger is pointed in the
direction of current flow, the thumb will point in the direction of motion.
The function of torque in a DC motor is to provide the mechanical output to

drive the piece of equipment that the DC motor is attached to.
Torque is developed in a DC motor by the armature (current-carrying conductor)

being present in the motor field (magnetic field).
CEMF is developed in a DC motor by the armature (conductor) rotating (relative

motion) in the field of the motor (magnetic field).
The function of the voltage that is developed in a DC motor (CEMF) opposes the
applied voltage and results in the lowering of armature current.
The speed of a DC motor may be changed by using resistors to vary the field
current and, therefore, the field strength.
Rev. 0 Page 7 ES-06

TYPES OF DC MOTORS DC Motors
TYPES OF DC MOTORS
There are various types of DC motors found in industry today. Each type
contains various characteristics that makes it desirable for certain applications.
EO 1.8 DESCRIBE the differences in construction between a

shunt-wound and a series-wound DC motor with respect
to the relationship between the field and the armature
windings.
EO 1.9 DESCRIBE the construction of a compounded DC

motor.
EO 1.10 DESCRIBE the torque-vs-speed characteristics for a

shunt-wound and a series-wound DC motor.
DC Motor Connections
Figure 7 shows schematic-

ally the different methods
of connecting the field and
armature circuits in a DC
motor. The circular
symbol represents the
armature circuit, and the
squares at the side of the
circle represent the brush
commutator system. The
direction of the arrows
indicates the direction of
the magnetic fields.
Figure 7 DC Motor Connections
ES-06 Page 8 Rev. 0

DC Motors TYPES OF DC MOTORS
Figure 7a shows an externally-excited DC motor. This type of DC motor is

constructed such that the field is not connected to the armature. This type of DC
motor is not normally used.
Figure 7b shows a shunt DC motor. The motor is called a "shunt" motor because
the field is in parallel, or "shunts" the armature.
Figure 7c shows a series DC motor. The motor field windings for a series motor
are in series with the armature.
Figures 7d and 7e show a compounded DC motor. A compounded DC motor is

constructed so that it contains both a shunt and a series field. Figure 7d is called
a "cumulatively-compounded" DC motor because the shunt and series fields are
aiding one another. Figure 7e is called a "differentially-compounded" DC motor
because the shunt and series field oppose one another.
Shunt-Wound Motor
Operation
The speed-torque relationship for a

typical shunt-wound motor is
shown in Figure 8.
A shunt-wound DC motor has a

decreasing torque when speed
increases. The decreasing torque-
vs-speed is caused by the armature
resistance voltage drop and
armature reaction. At a value of
speed near 2.5 times the rated
speed, armature reaction becomes
excessive, causing a rapid decrease Figure 8 Torque-vs-Speed for a Shunt-Wound DC Motor
in field flux, and a rapid decline in
torque until a stall condition is reached.
Shunt-Wound Motor Applications
The characteristics of a shunt-wound motor give it very good speed regulation, and it is classified
as a constant speed motor, even though the speed does slightly decrease as load is increased.
Shunt-wound motors are used in industrial and automotive applications where precise control of
speed and torque are required.
Rev. 0 Page 9 ES-06

TYPES OF DC MOTORS DC Motors
Series-Wound Motor
Since the armature and field in a

series-wound motor are connected
in series, the armature and field
currents become identical, and the
torque can be expressed as shown
in Equation (6-8).
2
T KIa (6-8)
The torque-vs-speed characteristics

of a series-wound motor with a
constant voltage source are shown
Figure 9 Torque-vs-Speed for a Series-Wound Motor
in Figure 9. As the speed
decreases, the torque for a series-
wound motor increases sharply. As load is removed from a series motor, the speed will increase
sharply. For these reasons, series-wound motors must have a load connected to prevent damage
from high speed conditions.
Series-Wound Motor Applications
The advantage of a series-wound motor is that it develops a large torque and can be operated at
low speed. It is a motor that is well-suited for starting heavy loads; it is often used for industrial
cranes and winches where very heavy loads must be moved slowly and lighter loads moved more
rapidly.
Compounded Motor
The compounded motor is desirable for a variety of applications because it combines the
characteristics of a series-wound motor and a shunt-wound motor. The compounded motor has
a greater torque than a shunt motor due to the series field; however, it has a fairly constant speed
due to the shunt field winding. Loads such as presses, shears, and reciprocating machines are
often driven by compounded motors.

DC Motors TYPES OF DC MOTORS
Summary
The types of DC motors are summarized below.
Types of DC Motors Summary
In a shunt-wound motor, the field is in parallel, or "shunts" the armature.
In a series-wound motor, the field is in series with the armature.
A compounded DC motor is constructed so that it contains both a shunt and a

series field.
A shunt-wound DC motor has a decreasing torque as speed increases.
The characteristics of a shunt-wound motor give it very good speed regulation,

and it is classified as a constant speed motor, even though the speed does slightly
decrease as load is increased.
A series-wound motor has a rapidly increasing torque when speed decreases. As

load is removed from a series-wound motor, the speed will increase sharply.
The advantages of a series-wound motor are that it develops a large torque and
can be operated at low speed. It is a motor that is well-suited for starting heavy
loads.

DC MOTOR OPERATION DC Motors
DC MOTOR OPERATION
DC motors require special starting resistors for operation due to their unique
design. A knowledge of the operation of these starting resistors is necessary to
understand DC motor operation.
EO 1.11 EXPLAIN why starting resistors are necessary for large

DC motors.
EO 1.12 LIST the four nameplate ratings for a DC motor.
Starting of DC Motors
At the moment a DC motor is started the armature is stationary and there is no counter EMF
being generated. The only component to limit starting current is the armature resistance, which,
in most DC motors is a very low value (approximately one ohm or less), as shown in Equation
(6-9).
Et ECEMF
Ia
Ra
(6-9)
In order to reduce this very high starting current, an external resistance must be placed in series
with the armature during the starting period. To show why this is essential, let us consider a
10-hp motor with an armature resistance of 0.4 ohms. If the motor were supplied by a 260 VDC
source, the resulting current would be as shown in Equation (6-9).
Et ECEMF
Ia
Ra
260 VDC 0
Ia
0.4
Ia 650 amps
This large current is approximately twelve times greater than actual full-load current for this
motor. This high current would, in all probability, cause severe damage to the brushes,
commutator, or windings. Starting resistors are usually incorporated into the motor design to
limit starting current to 125 to 200 percent of full load current.

DC Motors DC MOTOR OPERATION
The amount of starting resistance necessary to limit starting current to a more desirable value is
calculated using Equation (6-10.
Et
Rs = Ra (6-10)
Is
where
Rs = starting resistance
Et = terminal voltage
Is = desired armature starting current
Ra = armature resistance
Example: If the full load current of the motor mentioned previously is 50 amps, and it is
desired to limit starting current to 125% of this value, find the required resistance
that must be added in series with the armature.
Et
Rs Ra
Is
260 VDC
Rs 0.4
125%(50 amps)
Rs 3.76
The starting resistors are used in a DC motor by placing them in the starting circuit of the motor
controller that is used to start the DC motor. Starting resistors are normally of variable
resistances, with the value of resistance in the circuit at any time being either manually or
automatically controlled. The maximum amount of resistance will always be inserted when the
motor is first started. As the speed of the motor increases, counter EMF will begin to increase,
decreasing armature current. The starting resistors may then be cut out, in successive steps, until
the motor reaches full running speed.
DC Motor Ratings
The nameplate ratings of a DC motor refer to the conditions of voltage, current, speed, and power
at which the motor is normally operated. The principal rating is known as the continuous rating,
which is the rating described on the nameplate of a motor. The continuous power rating is a
thermal rating. At this power, the motor can be operated for long periods of time without a large
rise in temperature and beyond the limits of the conductor insulating material, bearings and other
components, which are greatly affected by temperature.
The speed rating of a DC motor is often given on the nameplate. This speed is the upper limit
at which a motor can be operated without mechanical damage occurring.

DC MOTOR OPERATION DC Motors
Summary
DC motor operation is summarized below.
DC Motor Operation Summary
Starting resistors are necessary for large DC motors to prevent

damage due to high currents while starting the motor.
Starting resistors are placed in the starting circuits for the

controllers that start the motor. When the motor reaches full
speed, the starting resistors are cut out of the circuit.
The four nameplate ratings for a DC motor include:
- voltage
- current
- speed
- power

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DOE-HDBK-1011/2-92

DOE FUNDAMENTALS HANDBOOK

U.S. Department of Energy FSC-6910

Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Order No. DE92019786

Key Words: Training Material, Magnetism, DC Theory, DC Circuits, Batteries, DC

The Department of Energy (DOE) Fundamentals Handbooks consist of ten academic

The Department of Energy Fundamentals Handbook entitled Electrical Science was

LIST OF TABLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

Rev. 0 Page i ES-03

Figure 1 Induced EMF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Figure 2 Induced EMF in Coils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Figure 3 Self-Induced EMF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Figure 4 Inductors in Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Figure 5 Inductors in Parallel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Figure 6 DC Current Through an Inductor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Figure 7 Time Constant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Figure 8 Voltage Applied to an Inductor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Figure 9 Inductor and Resistor in Parallel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Figure 10 Capacitor and Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Figure 11 Charging a Capacitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Figure 12 Discharging a Capacitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Figure 13 Capacitors Connected in Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Figure 14 Capacitors Connected in Parallel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Figure 15 Example 1 - Capacitors Connected in Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Figure 16 Example 2 - Capacitors Connected in Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Figure 17 Example 3 - Capacitors Connected in Parallel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Figure 18 Capacitive Time Constant for Charging Capacitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Figure 19 Capacitive Time Constant for Discharging Capacitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Figure 20 Example - Capacitive Time Constant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

ES-03 Page ii Rev. 0

Table 1 Types of Capacitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Rev. 0 Page iii ES-03

Gussow, Milton, Schaums Outline Series, Basic Electricity, McGraw-Hill.

Kidwell, Walter, Electrical Instruments and Measurements, McGraw-Hill.

ES-03 Page iv Rev. 0

1.2 DESCRIBE how an inductor opposes a change in current flow.

1.5 DESCRIBE the construction of a capacitor.

1.6 DESCRIBE how a capacitor stores energy.

1.7 DESCRIBE how a capacitor opposes a change in voltage.

Rev. 0 Page v ES-03

Intentionally Left Blank

ES-03 Page vi Rev. 0

Experiments investigating the unique behavioral characteristics of inductance led

EO 1.1 DESCRIBE how current flow, magnetic field, and stored

EO 1.2 DESCRIBE how an inductor opposes a change in

EO 1.3 Given a circuit containing inductors, CALCULATE total

EO 1.4 Given an inductive resistive circuit, CALCULATE the

An inductor is a circuit element

If we now open the switch, the

Rev. 0 Page 1 ES-03

The three requirements for

The faster the conductor moves, or

Self-induced EMF is another

ES-03 Page 2 Rev. 0

CEMF = induced voltage (volts)

Inductors in series are combined

Figure 4 Inductors in Series Leq = L1 + L2 + ... Ln (3-2)

Rev. 0 Page 3 ES-03