Observation of arc discharges occurring between commutator and brush simulating a DC motor by means of a high-speed camera

Abstract

Observed results of arc discharges generated between the brush and commutator are reported. The motion of the arc discharges was observed by a high-speed camera. The brush and commutator were installed to an experimental device that simulated the rotational motion of a real DC motor. The aim of this paper is to investigate the occurring position, dimensions, and moving characteristics of the arc discharges by means of high-speed imaging. Time evolutions of the arc voltage and current were measured, simultaneously. The arc discharges were generated when an inductive circuit was interrupted. Circuit current before interruption was 4A. The metal graphite or graphite brush and a copper commutator were used. Following results were obtained. The arc discharge was dragged on the brush surface and the arc discharge was sticking to the side surface of the commutator. The positions of the arc spots were on the end of the commutator and the center of the brush in rotational direction. The dimensions of the arc discharge were about 0.2 mm in length and about 0.3 mm in width. The averaged arc voltage during arc duration became higher and the light emission from the arc discharge became brighter, as the copper content of the cathode decreased.