Homemade Electric DC motor for school project

In summary, a homemade electric DC motor for a school project can be constructed using simple materials such as a battery, copper wire, a magnet, and a paperclip. The process involves winding the copper wire into a coil, securing it with tape, and connecting it to the battery terminals. The magnetic field from the magnet interacts with the current in the wire, causing the coil to rotate. This project demonstrates basic principles of electromagnetism and is an engaging way for students to learn about electric motors and circuits.
  • #1
harsh1
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Homework Statement
I made a simple electomanget motor, I am using copper magnetic wire with 120 turn on each side of a iron nail, this issue I am getting is that it's is not spinning. Specifically the iron nail is always attracing to the permanent magnets and is not giving the repulsion force needing it to create the spin.
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  • #2
Sounds to me like you might need a commutator. Google might be a good next step.
"I tried to build this thing and it didn't work". Isn't a question, and if it was, it would be really hard to answer.
 
  • #3
Also, those simple motors WILL NOT start on their own. You have to give them a good spin to get them going. Depending on construction details, the may have a preferred direction of rotation, however most wil spin either direction.

Reading other posts listed below in the Similiar threads section may help too.
 
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  • #4
harsh1 said:
I made a simple electomagnet motor, ... , this issue I am getting is that it is not spinning.
Welcome to PF.

Once you have looked at the similar threads below, if you still have no luck, attach a picture of the motor you built so we can see the detail, and give us a link to the instructions you have. That will make it easier for all.
 
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FAQ: Homemade Electric DC motor for school project

1. What materials do I need to build a homemade electric DC motor?

To build a homemade electric DC motor, you will need the following materials: a battery (1.5V or 9V), insulated copper wire (around 22 gauge), a magnet (neodymium or ceramic), a paperclip or a small piece of metal for the rotor, electrical tape, and a base to mount your motor (like cardboard or a small wooden board).

2. How do I wind the copper wire to create the motor coil?

To create the motor coil, take a length of insulated copper wire (around 30-50 cm) and wrap it around a cylindrical object (like a battery or a pencil) to form a coil. Make sure to leave some wire free at both ends for connections. Aim for about 10-15 turns for optimal performance. Once wound, carefully slide the coil off the object and secure it in the middle with tape, ensuring the ends of the wire are still free to connect to the power source.

3. How do I assemble the components of the motor?

To assemble the motor, first, create a simple base using cardboard or wood. Attach the magnet securely to the base. Then, place the coil on top of the magnet using a paperclip as a support to hold the coil in place. Connect the ends of the copper wire to the battery terminals, ensuring that one end is connected to the positive terminal and the other to the negative terminal. Adjust the position of the coil to ensure it can spin freely above the magnet.

4. Why is a commutator necessary for the motor to work?

A commutator is necessary in a DC motor to ensure that the direction of the current flowing through the coil changes as it spins. This change in direction creates a continuous rotation. In simple homemade motors, the ends of the wire can act as a rudimentary commutator by allowing the current to switch as the coil rotates past the magnet, thus maintaining motion.

5. What can I do to troubleshoot if my motor doesn't work?

If your motor doesn't work, first check all connections to ensure they are secure and properly attached. Make sure the wire ends are stripped of insulation and making good contact with the battery terminals. Ensure that the coil is balanced and can spin freely above the magnet without obstruction. If the motor still doesn't work, try adjusting the position of the magnet or the coil to find the optimal alignment for maximum magnetic interaction.

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