Can you safely run an AC motor on DC power without damaging it?

Can you safely run an AC motor on DC power without damaging it?

No, operating a normal AC motor on the DC power can damage it or significantly shorten its life. AC motors use alternating current to generate a revolving magnetic field. Supplying DC causes:

  1. Induction motors do not rotate; instead, they hum and overheat.

  2. Excessive current flow causes winding burn-out.

  3. There is no commutation in the universal motors without adequate modification.

Only universal motors (found in drills, blenders, and so on) can operate on both AC and DC; regardless, long-term operation on DC may result in increased brush wear and heating.

You can also follow us on AutomationForum.co, Facebook and Linkedin to receive daily Instrumentation updates.

You can also follow us on ForumElectrical.com , Facebook and Linkedin to receive daily Electrical updates.