Electric motor: Difference between revisions
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''' | An '''electric motor''' converts [[electrical energy]] into [[mechanical energy]]. The reverse process, that of converting mechanical energy into electrical energy, is accomplished by a [[Electrical generator|generator]] or dynamo. Most electric motors work by [[magnetism|electromagnetism]], but motors based on other electromechanical phenomena, such as [[electrostatic motor|electrostatic forces]] and the [[piezoelectric effect]] and thermal motors, also exist. The fundamental principle upon which electromagnetic motors are based is that there is a [[Lorenz force|mechanical force]] on any current-carrying wire contained within a magnetic field. The force is described by the [[magnetic field|Lorentz force law]] and is perpendicular to both the wire and the magnetic field. | ||
Most magnetic motors are rotary, but [[linear motor]]s also exist. In a rotary motor, the rotating part (usually on the inside) is called the [[Rotor (electric)|rotor]], and the stationary part is called the [[stator]]. The rotor rotates because the wires and magnetic field are arranged so that a [[torque]] is developed about the rotor's axis. The motor contains [[electromagnet]]s that are wound on a frame. Though this frame is often called the [[armature (electrical engineering)|armature]], that term is often erroneously applied. Correctly, the armature is that part of the motor across which the input [[voltage]] is supplied. Depending upon the design of the machine, either the rotor or the stator can serve as the armature. | |||
Revision as of 01:33, 19 November 2007
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An electric motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. The reverse process, that of converting mechanical energy into electrical energy, is accomplished by a generator or dynamo. Most electric motors work by electromagnetism, but motors based on other electromechanical phenomena, such as electrostatic forces and the piezoelectric effect and thermal motors, also exist. The fundamental principle upon which electromagnetic motors are based is that there is a mechanical force on any current-carrying wire contained within a magnetic field. The force is described by the Lorentz force law and is perpendicular to both the wire and the magnetic field.
Most magnetic motors are rotary, but linear motors also exist. In a rotary motor, the rotating part (usually on the inside) is called the rotor, and the stationary part is called the stator. The rotor rotates because the wires and magnetic field are arranged so that a torque is developed about the rotor's axis. The motor contains electromagnets that are wound on a frame. Though this frame is often called the armature, that term is often erroneously applied. Correctly, the armature is that part of the motor across which the input voltage is supplied. Depending upon the design of the machine, either the rotor or the stator can serve as the armature.