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DC Motor Wattage Calculation

DC Motor Power Formula:

\[ P = V \times I \]

V
A

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1. What is DC Motor Power Calculation?

DC motor power calculation determines the electrical power consumption of a DC motor using the fundamental formula P = V × I, where P is power in watts, V is voltage in volts, and I is current in amperes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the DC motor power formula:

\[ P = V \times I \]

Where:

Explanation: This formula represents the basic electrical power calculation where power equals the product of voltage and current flowing through the DC motor.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for proper motor selection, circuit design, power supply sizing, efficiency analysis, and energy consumption estimation in DC motor applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter voltage in volts and current in amperes. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the power consumption in watts.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between input power and output power?
A: Input power (P = V × I) is electrical power consumed, while output power is mechanical power delivered. Output power is typically less due to efficiency losses.

Q2: How does motor efficiency affect power calculation?
A: Efficiency (η) relates input and output power: Output Power = Input Power × η. Typical DC motor efficiencies range from 70-90%.

Q3: Can this formula be used for AC motors?
A: For AC motors, power calculation is more complex and involves power factor: P = V × I × PF for single-phase, P = √3 × V × I × PF for three-phase.

Q4: What are typical voltage and current ranges for DC motors?
A: DC motors commonly operate at 6V, 12V, 24V, or 48V with currents ranging from milliamps to hundreds of amps depending on motor size and application.

Q5: How do I account for starting current?
A: Starting current can be 3-8 times higher than running current. Always consider peak current when sizing power supplies and protection devices.

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