DC drives fulfill the role of an interface between a controller and the DC motor.  It is important that the DC drive match the control signals (voltage and power levels) as well as the signal type (analog or digital).  The DC drive is responsible for producing power conversion, amplification, and sequencing of waveform signals.  Types [...]

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DC drives are utilised in a variety of both commercial and industrial applications, which include processes such as rolling mills, printing presses, and elevators.  When operating as it is supposed to, DC drives not only use energy more efficiently, but also provide better process controllability than their electromechanical counterparts.  DC drives are known to present [...]

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DC drives are made up of an SCR (Silicon Controlled Rectifier) bridge that is responsible for converting incoming three or single-phase AC volts to DC volts.  This conversion process makes it possible for DC drives to regulate speed, torque, voltage and current conditions of the DC motor.  This is perfect for industrial processes like paper [...]

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As technology tends to improve by the minute nowadays, people are inclined to totally write off some of the earlier products used.  One such a product is the DC drive.  Some so-called experts in the industry have been predicting the death of DC drives for years now.  However, this does not seem to be the [...]

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It will come as an interesting fact for those unfamiliar with variable frequency drives that the first electric motors available on the market were designed and built for operation from direct current power.  As such DC motors have been available for nearly 100 years.  However, AC motors have surpassed DC motors as the preferred motor [...]

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A new version of Parker’s cross-platform drive configuration package Drive System Explorer (DSE) Lite has recently been released.  The Drive System Explorer Lite version 2.11 incorporates a number of new features and added support for the company’s newly introduced AC650S series compact sensorless AC drives for permanent-magnet motor applications.
The Drive System Explorer Lite is basically [...]

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A DC Motor Control Mechanism is used to control or change the speed in a DC Motor.  In order for a DC Motor Control Mechanism to operate to its full potential, it needs to consist of the following things:

A DC power source with three leads, V+, V-, and 0V.Â
Three wires which are connected mechanically to [...]

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Both DC drives and AC drives offer advantages and features that are quite unique.  The advantages and features listed below may make one type or other better suited for specific applications.
Advantages of DC Drives

DC drives are less expensive for most horsepower ratings.
DC drives are less complex with a single power conversion from AC to DC. [...]

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Below is a short description of the different types of DC Drives:

Regenerative DC Drives

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Regenerative DC drives, also called four-quadrant drives, are able to control the speed and direction of motor rotation, as well as the direction of motor torque.  The term regenerative implies that the DC drives have the ability to convert the mechanical [...]

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Due to their reliability, simplicity, favourable cost, and ease of use, DC drives have long been an important cog in the wheel that is industrial applications.  DC drives are commonly associated with a silicon controller rectifier (SCR) power conversion.  The SCR, (also known as a thyristor) converts the fixed voltage alternating current (AC) of the [...]

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