1. Current Carrying:
The armature is a cylindrical structure made up of a series of coils or windings. These coils are arranged around the core of the armature and are connected to a DC power source. When the power supply is connected, the coils carry electric current.
2. Interaction with Magnetic Field:
The armature is placed within a stationary part of the motor called the stator. The stator contains permanent magnets or electromagnets that create a strong magnetic field. The interaction between the magnetic field generated by the stator and the current-carrying coils of the armature results in the rotation of the armature.
3. Generation of Torque:
As the current flows through the armature windings, the interaction with the magnetic field exerts a force on the conductors. This force is called electromagnetic force or torque. The torque generated by the armature's interaction with the magnetic field is what causes the rotation of the shaft connected to the armature.
4. Commutation:
In a DC motor, the current direction in the armature coils needs to be reversed periodically to ensure continuous rotation. This process is known as commutation and is performed by a component called a commutator. The commutator is mechanically coupled to the armature and consists of a set of copper segments that make contact with brushes connected to the power supply. As the commutator rotates, it switches the polarity of the current in the armature coils, allowing the continuous rotation of the armature.
5. Conversion of Electrical to Mechanical Energy:
The rotation of the armature generated by the interaction between the magnetic field and current-carrying coils results in the conversion of electrical energy (supplied to the motor) into mechanical energy (rotational motion of the armature shaft).
In summary, the armature in a DC motor is the rotating part that carries the current-carrying conductors. Its interaction with the magnetic field generated by the stator creates torque, causing the armature to rotate. The commutator ensures proper current flow direction, enabling continuous rotation and converting electrical energy into mechanical energy.
