AC versus DC drives - By: Charlie Board

The first electric drive systems were DC powered. Although brushless AC motors have replaced them to a large extent, there is still a need for DC drives in industry.

Adjustable drives are of particular use in small-scale output (the opposite of bulk production) where one machine may be used for several different tasks. Adjustable electric drives combine high performance and efficiency with ruggedness, simplicity of operation and low cost. Their task is to control the speed, torque and direction of rotary machinery such as lathes, mills, pumps, conveyor belts and printing presses.

There are pros and cons to both AC and DC drives. AC drives are prized for their dependability, compact size and low maintenance. However, DC drives are prized for their low cost, simplicity and versatility.

AC drives

3-phase AC induction motors require virtually zero maintenance, and are smaller and lighter than the DC equivalent. They are therefore more suitable for areas that are hard to reach, or have space or weight restrictions. Being brushless, they are also the drive system of choice for high speed applications, since they have no commutator problems. Special AC drive casings are available at low cost for areas at risk of corrosion, explosion or moisture. This makes them ideal for water systems and chemical plants.

AC drives are preferred in areas where loads are variable, or there are long runs of light loads – both these cause wear on the brushes and commutators of DC motors. In systems that require several motors to run at simultaneous speed, AC drives are obviously the better choice.

DC drives

DC motors are less complex than AC motors, and are generally cheaper . This makes them useful for small companies. DC systems are also the best choice for regenerative loading applications, such as escalators and conveyor belts, or in areas where very sensitive control is needed.

We at Iconsys supply both AC and DC drive systems for a wide range of industrial applications.

About the Author

The Article is written by iconsys.co.uk providing dc drives and drive systems Services. Visit http://www.iconsys.co.uk for more information on iconsys.co.uk Products & Services___________________________Copyright information This article is free for reproduction but must be reproduced in its entirety, including live links & this copyright statement must be included. Visit iconsys.co.uk for more services!

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