Introduction
Probably the easiest of drive technologies to understand is the direct current (DC) drive. This type of drive converts fixed-voltage and frequency alternating current (AC) to an adjustable-voltage DC. A DC drive can operate a shunt wound DC motor or a permanent magnet motor. Shunt wound DC motors will be the target of this discussion on DC drives. Shunt wound motors are available in fractional to thousands of horsepower and are the most prevalent type of DC system in industry today. Permanent magnet motors are usually applied where horsepower requirements are 5 HP and below.
Before beginning this section, it is suggested that topic 1 (Electronic DC Drives) and topic 3 (DC Motor Types) be reviewed.
