A commutator is like a “switch” in electric motors and generators, directing current flow to keep machines running smoothly, much like the way society organizes and directs activities to maintain daily life
Overview
A copper commutator is a critical component in many electric machines, especially motors and generators. Essentially, a commutator is a rotary switch that reverses the current direction in the rotor windings. This reversing action ensures that the torque remains in a consistent direction, allowing the motor or generator to function properly.
The commutator is typically constructed as a series of copper segments arranged in a cylinder, with each segment connected to one end of an armature winding. As the armature rotates, brushes, usually made of carbon, slide over the commutator segments and provide electrical contact.
Use:
Locomotive Train system: DC traction motors which utilized commutators and brushes to convert electrical energy into mechanical movement.
DC Traction system besides locomotives, other transit systems like trams and some types of subway or metro trains utilized DC traction motors with commutators.
Generators: some generators, especially those that produce direct current (like in older automotive charging systems), used commutators.