Compound DC motors, also known as compound-wound DC motors, are a type of direct current (DC) motor that combines features of both series-wound and shunt-wound DC motors. These motors are designed to have a combination of series and shunt winding configurations, which gives them unique operating characteristics. Compound DC motors can be further categorized into two main types: cumulative compound and differential compound.
Here are the characteristics of compound DC motors:
Starting Torque: Compound DC motors offer higher starting torque compared to shunt-wound motors due to the presence of the series winding component. This makes them suitable for applications that require high starting torque, such as hoists and elevators.
Speed Regulation: Compound motors have better speed regulation compared to series motors. The shunt field winding provides a degree of speed stability, making them suitable for applications where consistent speed control is required.
Speed-Torque Curve: The speed-torque curve of a compound DC motor is between that of a series motor and a shunt motor. It combines the high starting torque of a series motor with the speed stability of a shunt motor.
Load Variation: Compound motors can handle varying loads while maintaining relatively constant speed. The series field winding helps in maintaining torque at higher loads, while the shunt field winding stabilizes the speed under light loads.
Applications: Compound DC motors are commonly used in applications that require both high starting torque and speed regulation, such as conveyors, presses, shears, and some types of machine tools.
Field Windings: Compound motors have both series and shunt field windings. The series winding is connected in series with the armature, and the shunt winding is connected in parallel to the armature. The series winding provides high starting torque, while the shunt winding contributes to speed stability.
Types of Compound Motors:
Cumulative Compound: In this configuration, the series field winding aids the shunt field winding, resulting in increased torque and better speed regulation. The torque and speed characteristics resemble those of a shunt motor with added starting torque.
Differential Compound: In this configuration, the series field winding opposes the shunt field winding, creating a motor with a decreasing torque curve as speed increases. These motors are used in applications where a variable-speed load is encountered.
Control: The characteristics of a compound motor can be adjusted by varying the relative strengths of the series and shunt windings. This can be achieved by changing the number of turns or the gauge of wire in each winding.
Efficiency: The efficiency of a compound motor is generally higher than that of a series motor, especially at light to moderate loads, due to the presence of the shunt field winding.
Complexity: Compound motors are more complex to design and control compared to either shunt or series motors due to the combined winding configurations.
Overall, compound DC motors offer a balance between the characteristics of series and shunt motors, making them versatile for various industrial applications that require a combination of starting torque and speed regulation.