What is the field winding in a brushed DC motor?

Sep 09, 2026

As a supplier of brushed DC motors, I often encounter customers who are curious about the various components that make up these motors. One such crucial component is the field winding. In this blog post, I'll delve into what the field winding in a brushed DC motor is, its functions, types, and how it impacts the performance of the motor.

What is the Field Winding?

The field winding is an essential part of a brushed DC motor. It is a coil of wire that is wound around the stator, which is the stationary part of the motor. When an electric current passes through the field winding, it creates a magnetic field. This magnetic field interacts with the magnetic field produced by the armature (the rotating part of the motor) to generate the torque necessary for the motor to rotate.

Functions of the Field Winding

The primary function of the field winding is to create a magnetic field. This magnetic field is crucial for the operation of the brushed DC motor. When the armature, which also has a magnetic field due to the current flowing through it, is placed within the magnetic field created by the field winding, a force is exerted on the armature. This force causes the armature to rotate, converting electrical energy into mechanical energy.

Another important function of the field winding is to control the speed and torque of the motor. By adjusting the current flowing through the field winding, the strength of the magnetic field can be changed. A stronger magnetic field will result in a higher torque output, while a weaker magnetic field will allow the motor to run at a higher speed.

Types of Field Windings

There are mainly two types of field windings in brushed DC motors: series-wound and shunt-wound.

Series-Wound Field Winding

In a series-wound motor, the field winding is connected in series with the armature. This means that the same current flows through both the field winding and the armature. Series-wound motors have a high starting torque, which makes them suitable for applications where a large amount of torque is required to start the load, such as in electric vehicles and hoists. However, they have a relatively poor speed regulation, which means that the speed of the motor can vary significantly with changes in the load.

Shunt-Wound Field Winding

In a shunt-wound motor, the field winding is connected in parallel with the armature. This allows the field winding to receive a constant voltage, regardless of the current flowing through the armature. Shunt-wound motors have a relatively constant speed, which makes them suitable for applications where a stable speed is required, such as in conveyor belts and machine tools. However, they have a lower starting torque compared to series-wound motors.

Impact of Field Winding on Motor Performance

The design and characteristics of the field winding can have a significant impact on the performance of the brushed DC motor. For example, the number of turns in the field winding affects the strength of the magnetic field. A higher number of turns will result in a stronger magnetic field, which can increase the torque output of the motor. However, it can also increase the resistance of the field winding, which can reduce the efficiency of the motor.

The material used for the field winding also plays an important role. Copper is a commonly used material for field windings due to its high electrical conductivity and low resistance. However, other materials such as aluminum can also be used, especially in applications where weight is a concern.

Our Brushed DC Motors

At our company, we offer a wide range of brushed DC motors with different field winding configurations to meet the diverse needs of our customers. For example, our 650w Brushed Dc Gear Motor is a high-performance motor that is suitable for applications where a high torque is required. It features a well-designed field winding that ensures a strong magnetic field and efficient operation.

Our 24V 500W Brushed DC Motor is another popular product. It is designed for applications that require a stable speed and a moderate amount of torque. The field winding of this motor is optimized to provide a constant magnetic field, resulting in a reliable and efficient performance.

If you need a motor for a specific application, our 24V Brushed DC Electric Motor might be the right choice. It is a versatile motor that can be used in a variety of applications, from small appliances to industrial equipment. The field winding of this motor is carefully designed to ensure a smooth and quiet operation.

Conclusion

The field winding is a critical component of a brushed DC motor. It plays a vital role in creating the magnetic field that is necessary for the motor to operate. By understanding the different types of field windings and their impact on motor performance, you can choose the right motor for your specific application.

If you are interested in purchasing brushed DC motors or have any questions about our products, please feel free to contact us. We are always ready to provide you with the best solutions and support.

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References

  • Chapman, S. J. (2012). Electric Machinery Fundamentals. McGraw-Hill Education.
  • Fitzgerald, A. E., Kingsley, C., & Umans, S. D. (2003). Electric Machinery. McGraw-Hill Education.