Module I: Industrial Drives - Detailed
Explanations & Exam Tips
1. Overview of Industrial Drives
Industrial drives control the speed, torque, and direction of electric motors. They convert
electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive machines like pumps, conveyors, and
compressors. Efficient drives improve energy savings and system performance.
Exam Tip: Define industrial drives, mention their applications, and highlight efficiency
benefits.
2. Characteristics of Electrical Motors
Electric motors are classified based on their characteristics such as torque-speed curves,
efficiency, and power ratings. DC motors provide high starting torque, while AC motors are
widely used due to robustness and efficiency.
Exam Tip: Draw and explain the torque-speed curve for DC and AC motors.
3. Motor Enclosures and Bearings
Motor enclosures protect against environmental hazards like dust, moisture, and
mechanical damage. Common types:
- Open Drip Proof (ODP): Allows ventilation but limits exposure.
- Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC): Prevents external contaminants.
- Explosion-Proof: Designed for hazardous locations.
Bearings support the rotor shaft and reduce friction. Ball bearings are used for light loads,
while roller bearings handle heavier loads.
Exam Tip: List enclosure types with applications and explain bearing selection criteria.
4. Transmission of Drives
Transmission systems transfer mechanical energy from the motor to the load. Types
include:
- Belt Drives: Cost-effective and used for variable-speed applications.
- Gear Drives: Provide precise speed ratios and high efficiency.
- Chain Drives: Suitable for high-load applications.
- Direct Drives: Improve efficiency by eliminating transmission losses.
Exam Tip: Compare transmission types with advantages and disadvantages.
5. Choice of Motor
Motor selection depends on factors like:
- Load type (constant or variable torque)
- Environmental conditions (dust, humidity, temperature)
- Power supply availability (AC or DC)
- Efficiency and operational cost
Exam Tip: Provide examples of motor selection for different applications, like fans,
conveyors, and elevators.
6. Load Equations & Flywheel Sizing
Load equations help determine motor power requirements. Flywheels store kinetic energy
to smooth out speed fluctuations. The energy stored in a flywheel is given by:
E = 1/2 I ω², where I is moment of inertia and ω is angular velocity.
Exam Tip: Write the formula, define terms, and explain an example calculation.
7. Electric Braking
Types of electric braking:
- Plugging: Reverses supply phase for quick braking.
- Dynamic Braking: Converts kinetic energy into heat using resistors.
- Regenerative Braking: Feeds energy back into the power system.
Exam Tip: Explain each braking method with applications and advantages.
8. Speed-Time Curves
Speed-time curves illustrate motor speed variations over time:
- Acceleration Phase: Motor speeds up.
- Constant Speed Phase: Motor maintains steady operation.
- Deceleration Phase: Motor slows down, often using braking systems.
Exam Tip: Draw a speed-time curve and explain each phase.
Additional Exam Writing Tips
- Structure answers with clear definitions, bullet points, and diagrams.
- Use formulas and explain their significance.
- Provide real-world examples.
- Summarize key points at the end.
