At present, a large amount of electrical energy is generated in the form of alternating current. Consequently, the use of DC machines (motors or generators) has become limited. However, dc machines are still used in several applications like for supplying excitation systems of alternators, in electrolytic processes, welding processes, etc.

Applications of DC Generators

The applications of different kinds of DC generators are listed below −

Separately-Excited DC Generator

• Generators are mainly used in laboratories for experiments and testing purposes.

• They are also used as a source of DC power for supplying DC motors.

Series DC Generator

• Series DC generators are used in DC locomotives for regenerative braking for supplying field excitation current.

• Series DC generators are also used as a booster in distribution systems.

• Differentially compounded series generators are used for arc welding.

• Over compounded cumulative series generators are used for lighting and heavy power supplies.

• Flat compounded series generators are used for supplying power to offices, houses, and the other commercial buildings.

Shunt DC Generator

• Shunt DC generators are mainly used for lighting purposes.

• Shunt DC generators are used for charging batteries.

• These generators are also used for supplying field excitation current to alternators.

Applications of DC Motors

The applications of different types of DC motors are given below −

Series DC Motor

• Series DC motors are used in applications where high starting torque is required.

• Series DC motors are used in cranes and hoists.

• Series DC motors are used in electric tractions.

• They are used in air compressors.

• They are also used in vacuum cleaners.

• Series DC motors are also used in sewing machines, etc.

Shunt DC Motor

• Shunt DC motors are used in applications that require constant speed.

• Shunt DC motors are used for driving lathe machines.

• These are also used in centrifugal pumps and blowers.

• These are used in fans, conveyors, and spinning machines.

• These DC motors are also used in lifts.

Compound DC Motor

• Compound DC motors are used in those applications which require high starting torque and constant speed.

• Used in printing presses.

• They are also used in shears.

• They are used in elevators and lifts.

• Compound DC motors are also used in rolling mills and heavy planners, etc.