Basic studies for accurate commutation analysis which enables commutation spark energy estimation

Abstract

DC machine has been used in steel industries and paper industries, Owing to their advantages for adjustable speed drive. The design objective for DC machines is to increase their output power and decrease their size and weight, though DC machines have more than 100 years of application history. Commutation is one of the most important for phenomenon which determines machine reliability, when the design objective is required in design stage. In other words, the commutation is an armature coil current reversing process, in commutation circuit where the coil is short circuited by brush. In this paper the "Equivalent commutation circuit" which is well known is applied to analyze the commutation process in this field. If the reversing process is retarded commutation spark may accrue at leaving edge of the brush and commutation failure may be caused. © 2010 The Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan.