ac versus dc torque

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mwuniseal

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We have a machine with a 200 hp ac 3phase 480 volt 8 pole motor. This motor is operating on a vfd. I was told we would have better torque from a comparable dc motor on a dc drive. I understand that there is a difference under different situations, like a change in speed.
Thank you
 
110329-1105 EDT

What do you mean better torque?
What output speed torque requirements do you have?

A DC motor with fixed field excitation has a torque output approximately proportional to armature current. From a thermal standpoint the motor will have a maximum armature current specification based on internal temperature rise. Suppose this is N amperes. Then Torque = K*N essentially independent of speed, where K is a constant. Note: when an armature is rotating there is substantial self cooling. Thus, if no external cooling is provided, then you have to lower the maximum current at lower speed. So motors to be run at maximum torque over wide speed ranges need supplemental cooling. This is usually supplied by an external blower.

For short times you can greatly exceed the normal maximum torque rating of a DC motor by supplying large armature current.


AC induction motors have there own unique torque characteristics which are complex to describe. But will not provide the short time peak torque capability of the same physical size DC motor. Generally when operated from a VFD or Vector control will not have the low speed capability of the DC motor.


An AC synchronous motor when operated as a so called DC brushless motor has pretty much the same basic characteristics as the DC commutator type motor but no sliding electrical contacts. The rotating permanent magnets in a DC brushless are the equivalent of the fixed stationary field of the DC commutator motor. Basically it is a DC motor turned inside out and electronic commutation is employed instead of brushes and a mechanical commutator. The DC brushless has better thermal characteristics because the coils are on the outside instead of on the rotor.

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We have a machine with a 200 hp ac 3phase 480 volt 8 pole motor. This motor is operating on a vfd. I was told we would have better torque from a comparable dc motor on a dc drive. I understand that there is a difference under different situations, like a change in speed.
Thank you

Both can produce FLT at any speed within their operating range up to base speed. For the 8-pole motor, that's just under 900rpm. If the DC motor also has a base speed of 900rpm, it will have the same FLT as the ac machine. Both can be run above base speed but the available torque falls.
The DC drive is simpler than the AC drive and the control of torque easier but the DC motor is a bit more complicated mechanically, more expensive as a rule, and needs regular maintenance.
Swings and roundabouts, I guess.
 
It should be noted that in both of the above examples, they would be referring to an AC VECTOR drive.

Older V/Hz drives were not able to match the performance of DC drives as far as torque is concerned, especially at lower speeds. That perception may be persisting in whomever told you that. Hasn't been true now for a number of years, and most new VFDs are all coming capable of at least Open Loop (aka Sensorless) Vector Control.
 
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