Terminology » RF Components » AC Motor vs. DC Motor: Key Differences Explained

AC Motor vs. DC Motor: Key Differences Explained

ac motor dc motor electric motor motor types motor

An electric motor is an electromechanical device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then used for various applications, such as powering fans, rotating pump impellers, lifting materials, and driving compressors. Motors are essential in both homes and industries.

In fact, motors consume approximately 70% of the total electrical load in the industrial sector. The general working mechanism is similar for all motors, as outlined below:

  • An electric current in a magnetic field will experience a force.
  • If the current-carrying wire is bent into a loop, the two sides of the loop (which are at right angles to the magnetic field) will experience forces in opposite directions.
  • The pair of forces creates a turning torque, causing the coil to rotate.
  • Practical motors use several loops on an armature to provide a more uniform torque, and the magnetic field is produced by an electromagnet arrangement called field coils.

To truly understand motors, it’s important to grasp the concept of “motor load.” Load refers to the torque output and the corresponding speed required for a particular application.

The following table highlights the key differences between AC and DC motors based on various features:

FeatureAC MotorDC Motor
Current TypeAlternating current (AC) motors use an electrical current that reverses its direction at regular intervals.DC motors use direct, unidirectional current (DC current).
Motor TypesAC motors are classified into Synchronous and Induction motors. Induction motors are further classified into single-phase and three-phase motors.DC motors are classified into separately excited and self-excited motors. Self-excited DC motors are further classified into series, compound, and shunt types.
Basic PartsAC motors have two basic parts: the stator (stationary electrical component) and the rotor (rotating electrical component).DC motors have three main components: the field pole, the armature, and the commutator.
Speed ControlSpeed is generally more difficult to control precisely in AC motors.The main advantage of DC motors is precise speed control. Speed can be controlled by adjusting the armature voltage and field current, and this does not affect the quality of the power supply.