Permanent Magnet Alternator load problem

Aug 06, 2007 3 Replies

Hi all, I've made a simple permanent magnet alternator. For the sake of experimentation I've attached the rotor to a D.C . motor, and the motor to a constant voltage power supply. When I complete the circuit with my wire coils, for some reason the current draw goes up and the rpms go down on the rotor. This happens whether there is a load or no load across the coils. The coils are in no way connected(intentionally at least) to the rotor or motor. I don't know what is happening, or how to prevent it. Any help would be appreciated.



Thanks, Mark



Schematic? I'm not clear on what you're doing, although connecting the motor in reverse would make an effective brake.

Tim Wescott Control systems and communications consulting http://www.wescottdesign.com Need to learn how to apply control theory in your embedded system? "Applied Control Theory for Embedded Systems" by Tim Wescott Elsevier/Newnes, http://www.wescottdesign.com/actfes/actfes.html

"Complete the circuit with my wire coils" You completed some circuit that caused the coils to conduct. That of course lugs the motor. You didn't just short the alternator's output wires together, did you? Sorry, I had to ask. Anyway, the connection you made completed some circuit. What kind of alternator did you build single phase or something fancier?

Hey guys, Can I e-mail you a simple drawing of my setup to make things easier? My e-mail is snipped-for-privacy@gmail.com. Thanks

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required