How To Calculate Induced Armature Voltage

An armature is the rotating solenoid inside of DC machines. Engineers use DC machines to build a generator or a motor. When it's used as a generator, a gas turbine or a diesel engine rotates the armature and the armature generates electric power. When it's used as a motor, electric power rotates the armature and the armature generates the mechanical energy needed to operate a motor. In both cases, the armature rotates in a magnetic field to produce the required output.

Step 1

Find the total number of conductors on the armature, or "Z." Refer to the armature design specifications.

Step 2

Find the speed of rotation of the armature, or "N," in revolutions per minute or rpms. Refer to the armature design specifications.

Step 3

Find the magnetic flux per pole on the armature, or "M," in units of Webers. Refer to the armature design specifications.

Step 4

Calculate the induced armature voltage using the formula Eo = (Z N M)/ 60 where Eo is the induced armature voltage. For example, if Z is 360 conductors, N is 1200 rpm and M is 0.04 Wb, then [(360)(1200)(0.04)]/60 equals 288 volts.