DC Motor Efficiency MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for DC Motor Efficiency - Download Free PDF

Last updated on Jun 10, 2025

Latest DC Motor Efficiency MCQ Objective Questions

DC Motor Efficiency Question 1:

Which of the following testing methods is a direct testing of D C machine?  

  1.  Swinburne's Test 
  2. Field Test 
  3. Hopkinson’s Test
  4. Brake Test

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : Brake Test

DC Motor Efficiency Question 1 Detailed Solution

Explanation:

Direct Testing of DC Machines

Definition: Direct testing of a DC machine involves operating the machine under actual working conditions and measuring its performance directly. This method provides accurate results as the machine is tested in real-time under actual load conditions. Among the various testing methods available for DC machines, the Brake Test is one of the most common direct testing methods.

Correct Option Analysis:

The correct option is:

Option 4: Brake Test

The Brake Test is a direct testing method where the DC machine is tested under load conditions, and its performance is evaluated. In this method, the machine is loaded mechanically using a brake drum, and the torque produced by the machine is measured. The output power is calculated based on the torque and speed. The input power is measured using electrical instruments to evaluate the efficiency of the machine.

Working Principle of Brake Test:

  • A belt or rope is wound around the brake drum, which is mounted on the shaft of the DC machine.
  • The ends of the belt or rope are connected to a spring balance and a fixed weight. The tension in the rope creates a braking torque on the drum.
  • The torque produced by the machine is measured by the difference in readings of the spring balance on either side of the drum.
  • The rotational speed of the shaft is measured using a tachometer.
  • Electrical instruments are used to measure the input power supplied to the machine.
  • The output power is calculated using the formula:

Output Power, Pout = 2 × π × N × T

  • Where:
    • N = Rotational speed of the shaft in revolutions per second (rps)
    • T = Torque produced by the machine (measured using the spring balance)
  • The efficiency of the DC machine can be calculated using the formula:

Efficiency, η = (Pout / Pin) × 100%

Advantages of Brake Test:

  • Provides accurate results as the machine is tested under actual working conditions.
  • Simple and straightforward method for performance evaluation.

Disadvantages of Brake Test:

  • Cannot be used for large machines due to the difficulty in dissipating the heat generated during testing.
  • Requires a mechanical setup, which may involve additional costs and effort.

Applications:

  • Commonly used for small and medium-sized DC machines to evaluate their performance.
  • Widely used in laboratories for educational and research purposes.

Additional Information

To further understand the analysis, let’s evaluate the other options:

Option 1: Swinburne's Test

Swinburne's Test is an indirect testing method used for DC machines. It involves measuring the no-load losses of the machine and estimating its performance under load conditions. This method is not a direct test as the machine is not tested under actual working conditions. It is suitable for machines where loading is difficult or impractical, such as large DC machines.

Option 2: Field Test

The Field Test is a specific method used for testing two identical DC machines connected back-to-back, where one machine acts as a motor and the other as a generator. This method is not a direct testing method, as it involves testing two machines simultaneously under controlled conditions.

Option 3: Hopkinson’s Test

Hopkinson’s Test, also known as the Regenerative Test, is another indirect testing method. It involves connecting two identical DC machines back-to-back, with one operating as a motor and the other as a generator. The power circulating between the machines reduces the external power requirement. This method is suitable for large machines but is not considered a direct testing method.

Conclusion:

The Brake Test is the correct answer as it is a direct testing method where the DC machine is tested under actual load conditions. While other methods like Swinburne's Test, Field Test, and Hopkinson’s Test are valuable for specific applications, they are not direct testing methods. The Brake Test provides accurate results and is widely used for evaluating the performance of small and medium-sized DC machines.

DC Motor Efficiency Question 2:

A 10 hp, 600 rpm DC shunt motor draws a line current of 18 A at 500 V. Determine the efficiency of the motor assuming 1 hp = 735.5 W.

  1. 78.1%
  2. 71.8%
  3. 81.7%
  4. 82.8%

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : 81.7%

DC Motor Efficiency Question 2 Detailed Solution

Concept

The efficiency of the motor is given by:

% η \(={P_{out}\over P_{in}}× 100\)

Calculation

Given, Pout = 10 × 735.5 = 7355 W

Pin = 500 × 18 = 9000 W

% η \(={P_{out}\over P_{in}}× 100\)

% η \(={7355\over 9000}× 100\)

% η = 81.7%

 

DC Motor Efficiency Question 3:

A 200 V shunt motor develops 23 h.p. when taking 20.2 kW. The field resistance is 50 Ω and armature resistance is 0.06 Ω. What are the total losses?

  1. 2512 W
  2. 1756 W
  3. 3718 W
  4. 3042 W

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : 3042 W

DC Motor Efficiency Question 3 Detailed Solution

Concept

The circuit diagram of the DC shunt motor is:

qImage6730c6dc1e23fd773d5a927b

The back emf (Eb) is given by:

\(E_b={V_t-I_aR_a}\)

where, Vt = Terminal voltage

Ia = Armature current

Ra = Armature Resistance

Calculation

Given, Pout = 23 HP = 23 × 746 = 17158 W

It is given that the input to the motor is 20.2 kW. Hence, Pin = 20.2 kW = 20200 W.

Rf = 50 Ω and Ra = 0.06 Ω

\(I_f={V\over R_f}={200\over 50}=4A\)

\(P_{in}=V_t\times I_L\)

\(I_L={20200\over 200}=101A\)

\(I_a=I_L-I_f\)

\(I_a=101-4=97A\)

The field copper loss is given by:

\(P_{fc}=I_f^2\times R_f=4^2\times 50=800W\)

The armature copper loss is given by:

\(P_{ac}=I_a^2\times R_a=97^2\times 0.06=941.94W\)

Total losses are given by:

\(P_{losses}=P_{input}-P_{output}\)

\(P_{losses}=20200-17158\)

\(P_{losses}=3042\space W\)

DC Motor Efficiency Question 4:

Identify whether the given statements with reference to DC machines are true or false.

1. Swinburne's test cannot be performed on a DC series motor.

2. Swinburne's test is a non-loading test. 

  1. 1 - False, 2 - True 
  2. 1 - False, 2 - False
  3. 1 - True, 2 - True
  4. 1 - True, 2 - False
  5. None of these

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : 1 - True, 2 - True

DC Motor Efficiency Question 4 Detailed Solution

The correct answer is option 3):(1 - True, 2 - True)

Concept:

Swinburne's test:

  • It is an indirect method of testing a DC shunt machine.
  • We can run the machine as a motor or as a generator.
  • In this method of testing, no-load or constant losses are measured separately.
  • eventually, we can determine the efficiency.
  • This test is very convenient and economical as it requires very little power from the supply to perform it.
  • Since constant losses are known, the efficiency of Swinburne's test can be pre-determined at any load.
  • This method is applicable to constant flux motors. Swinburne's is not suitable for DC series motor as it cannot run on no load

DC Motor Efficiency Question 5:

Identify whether the given statements with reference to DC machines are true or false.

1. Swinburne's test cannot be performed on a DC series motor.

2. Swinburne's test is a non-loading test. 

  1. 1 - False, 2 - True 
  2. 1 - False, 2 - False
  3. 1 - True, 2 - True
  4. 1 - True, 2 - False
  5. Insufficient data

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : 1 - True, 2 - True

DC Motor Efficiency Question 5 Detailed Solution

The correct answer is option 3):(1 - True, 2 - True)

Concept:

Swinburne's test:

  • It is an indirect method of testing a DC shunt machine.
  • We can run the machine as a motor or as a generator.
  • In this method of testing, no-load or constant losses are measured separately.
  • eventually, we can determine the efficiency.
  • This test is very convenient and economical as it requires very little power from the supply to perform it.
  • Since constant losses are known, the efficiency of Swinburne's test can be pre-determined at any load.
  • This method is applicable to constant flux motors. Swinburne's is not suitable for DC series motor as it cannot run on no load

Top DC Motor Efficiency MCQ Objective Questions

Find the current required by a 400 V, 10 H.P. DC motor at 73.55% efficiency.

  1. 35 A
  2. 20 A
  3. 30 A
  4. 25 A

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : 25 A

DC Motor Efficiency Question 6 Detailed Solution

Download Solution PDF

Concept:

Consider a separately excited DC motor as,

Eb is back EMF developed in the motor at speed N rpm

V = Eb + Ia Ra .....(1)

V is the supply voltage

Ra is armature resistance

Ia is armature current

Vf is field supply

Rf is field winding resistance

If is field winding current

Let T is the torque developed by the armature of a motor running at N rpm.

Power developed in the armature of motor can be written as,

P = V Ia = Eb Ia+ I2a Ra

Thus the gross mechanical power output provided by the motor is

Pm = Eb I= V Ia -  I2a Ra(losses)

The efficiency of the motor is = Output Power(Pm) / Input power(P)

Calculation

P= 10 HP

= 10 × 746 = 7460 W

V = 400

η = 0.7355

η = 7460 / (400 × I) 

⇒ 0.7355 = 7460 / (400 × I) 

⇒ I = 25.35 ≈ 25 A

Additional Information

Maximum power condition:

If the value of \(\frac{dP_m}{dI_a}=0,\) the motor will deliver maximum power

\(\frac{dP_m}{dI_a}= V - 2I_aR_a = 0\)

Ia Ra = V / 2 ....(2)

From equation (1) & (2)

Eb = V / 2

The efficiency of the motor is = Output Power(Pm) / Input power(P)

\(η= \frac{E_b I_a }{VI_a }× 100=\frac{E_b }{V}× 100=50\)%

 

Constant losses of DC motor can be measured by:

  1. Swinburne's Test
  2. Retardation Test
  3. Hopkinson's Test
  4. Load Test

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Swinburne's Test

DC Motor Efficiency Question 7 Detailed Solution

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Hopkinson’s test:

  • It is a full load test, used to test the efficiency of a DC machine.
  • Temperature rise and commutation can be observed and maintained in the limit because this test is done under full load condition.
  • It requires two identical machines that are coupled to each other. One of these two machines is operated as a generator to supply the mechanical power to the motor and the other is operated as a motor to drive the generator.
  • It is also called a regenerative test or back to back test or heat run test.

Swinburne’s test:

  • It is an indirect method of testing a DC machine. We can run the machine as a motor or as a generator.
  • In this method of testing, no-load or constant losses are measured separately and eventually, we can determine the efficiency.
  • This test is very convenient and economical as it is required very less power from supply to perform the test.
  • Since constant losses are known, the efficiency of Swinburne's test can be pre-determined at any load.

Retardation test:

This test is used to determine the moment of inertia and the frictional losses of the machine but is not specifically designed for measuring constant losses of DC motors.

Voltage drop test:

It is often carried out for checking the condition of the armature winding by using open and short circuit conditions of armature coil.

Which statement is correct for DC machine comparative to AC machine? 

  1. It doesn’t require any maintenance 
  2. The DC motor’s efficiency is high 
  3. Motor speed control can be done by changing the frequency. 
  4. In this motor, brushes, and commutators are not present.

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : The DC motor’s efficiency is high 

DC Motor Efficiency Question 8 Detailed Solution

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The correct answer is option 2.

The DC motor is 30% more efficient than AC motors due to the magnetic field generated from the permanent magnets rather than copper windings.

Difference between DC and AC machine

Parameter

AC Machine

DC Machine

Definition

An AC motor can be defined as an electric motor that is driven by an alternating current (AC).

A DC motor is a rotatory electric motor that converts Direct current (DC energy) into mechanical energy.

Maintenance

Less due to the non-availability of a commutator and brush assembly

High due presence of commutator and brush assembly

Speed control

Frequency control, Pole changing, Rotor resistance

Field Flux method, Armature resistance method, Voltage control

Efficiency

Low efficiency

High efficiency

Identify whether the given statements with reference to DC machines are true or false.

1. Swinburne's test cannot be performed on a DC series motor.

2. Swinburne's test is a non-loading test. 

  1. 1 - False, 2 - True 
  2. 1 - False, 2 - False
  3. 1 - True, 2 - True
  4. 1 - True, 2 - False

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : 1 - True, 2 - True

DC Motor Efficiency Question 9 Detailed Solution

Download Solution PDF

The correct answer is option 3):(1 - True, 2 - True)

Concept:

Swinburne's test:

  • It is an indirect method of testing a DC shunt machine.
  • We can run the machine as a motor or as a generator.
  • In this method of testing, no-load or constant losses are measured separately.
  • eventually, we can determine the efficiency.
  • This test is very convenient and economical as it requires very little power from the supply to perform it.
  • Since constant losses are known, the efficiency of Swinburne's test can be pre-determined at any load.
  • This method is applicable to constant flux motors. Swinburne's is not suitable for DC series motor as it cannot run on no load

A d.c. series motor takes 30 A at 220 V and runs at 800 r.p.m. If the armature and field resistance are 0.3 Ω and 0.2 Ω respectively and the iron and friction losses are 0.3 kW, what will be the output of the motor?

  1. 6.6 kW
  2. 7.35 kW
  3. 5.85 kW
  4. 7.5 kW

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : 5.85 kW

DC Motor Efficiency Question 10 Detailed Solution

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Power flow in DC Motor:

F3 Madhuri Engineering 12.07.2022 D14

Electrical input is given by:

I = V× Ia

where I = electrical input

VT = supply voltage

Ia = armature current

Developed power is given by:

Pd = E× Ia

where P= developed power

Eb = back emf

Back EMF in DC series motor is given by:

Eb = VT - Ia (Ra + Rse)

Calculation:

Given, VT = 220 V

Ra = 0.2 Ω 

Rse = 0.3 Ω 

Eb = 220 - 30(0.2 + 0.3)

Eb = 205 V

Pd = 205 × 30

Pd = 6150 W = 6.15 kW

Po = Pd - iron and friction loss

Po = 6.15 - 0.3

Po = 5.85 kW

The gross mechanical power developed by the motor is maximum when the back EMF is equal to _______ of the supply voltage.

  1. twice
  2. \(\frac 2 3\)
  3. \(\frac 1 3\)
  4. \(\frac 1 2\)

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : \(\frac 1 2\)

DC Motor Efficiency Question 11 Detailed Solution

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Power Equation of DC Motor:

For a DC Motor,

V = Eb + IR     ---(1)

Where V is the terminal voltage

Eb is back-EMF

I is current through armature in Shunt motor and current through both armature and field in series motor

R is armature resistance in Shunt motor and both armature and field resistance in series motor

Since back EMF Eb acts in opposition to the applied voltage V, the net voltage across the armature circuit is (V - Eb).

If Equation (1) above is multiplied by 'l' throughout, we get,

VI = IEb + I2R

Where,

VI is electric power supplied to the armature (armature input)

IEb (= Pm) power developed by armature (armature output) 

I2R is copper loss

Pm = VI - I2R

Since V and R are fixed, the power developed by the motor depends upon armature current.

For maximum power, \(\frac{dP_m}{dI}=0\)

or, \(\frac{dP_m}{dI}=V-2IR=0\)

or, V = 2IR

or, IR = V/2     ---(2)

From equation (1) & (2),

V = Eb + V/2

or, \(E_b =\frac{V}{2}\)

Hence, The gross mechanical power developed by the motor is maximum when the back EMF is equal to 50% (1/2) of the supply voltage.

Which of the following testing methods is a direct testing of D C machine?  

  1.  Swinburne's Test 
  2. Field Test 
  3. Hopkinson’s Test
  4. Brake Test

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : Brake Test

DC Motor Efficiency Question 12 Detailed Solution

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Explanation:

Direct Testing of DC Machines

Definition: Direct testing of a DC machine involves operating the machine under actual working conditions and measuring its performance directly. This method provides accurate results as the machine is tested in real-time under actual load conditions. Among the various testing methods available for DC machines, the Brake Test is one of the most common direct testing methods.

Correct Option Analysis:

The correct option is:

Option 4: Brake Test

The Brake Test is a direct testing method where the DC machine is tested under load conditions, and its performance is evaluated. In this method, the machine is loaded mechanically using a brake drum, and the torque produced by the machine is measured. The output power is calculated based on the torque and speed. The input power is measured using electrical instruments to evaluate the efficiency of the machine.

Working Principle of Brake Test:

  • A belt or rope is wound around the brake drum, which is mounted on the shaft of the DC machine.
  • The ends of the belt or rope are connected to a spring balance and a fixed weight. The tension in the rope creates a braking torque on the drum.
  • The torque produced by the machine is measured by the difference in readings of the spring balance on either side of the drum.
  • The rotational speed of the shaft is measured using a tachometer.
  • Electrical instruments are used to measure the input power supplied to the machine.
  • The output power is calculated using the formula:

Output Power, Pout = 2 × π × N × T

  • Where:
    • N = Rotational speed of the shaft in revolutions per second (rps)
    • T = Torque produced by the machine (measured using the spring balance)
  • The efficiency of the DC machine can be calculated using the formula:

Efficiency, η = (Pout / Pin) × 100%

Advantages of Brake Test:

  • Provides accurate results as the machine is tested under actual working conditions.
  • Simple and straightforward method for performance evaluation.

Disadvantages of Brake Test:

  • Cannot be used for large machines due to the difficulty in dissipating the heat generated during testing.
  • Requires a mechanical setup, which may involve additional costs and effort.

Applications:

  • Commonly used for small and medium-sized DC machines to evaluate their performance.
  • Widely used in laboratories for educational and research purposes.

Additional Information

To further understand the analysis, let’s evaluate the other options:

Option 1: Swinburne's Test

Swinburne's Test is an indirect testing method used for DC machines. It involves measuring the no-load losses of the machine and estimating its performance under load conditions. This method is not a direct test as the machine is not tested under actual working conditions. It is suitable for machines where loading is difficult or impractical, such as large DC machines.

Option 2: Field Test

The Field Test is a specific method used for testing two identical DC machines connected back-to-back, where one machine acts as a motor and the other as a generator. This method is not a direct testing method, as it involves testing two machines simultaneously under controlled conditions.

Option 3: Hopkinson’s Test

Hopkinson’s Test, also known as the Regenerative Test, is another indirect testing method. It involves connecting two identical DC machines back-to-back, with one operating as a motor and the other as a generator. The power circulating between the machines reduces the external power requirement. This method is suitable for large machines but is not considered a direct testing method.

Conclusion:

The Brake Test is the correct answer as it is a direct testing method where the DC machine is tested under actual load conditions. While other methods like Swinburne's Test, Field Test, and Hopkinson’s Test are valuable for specific applications, they are not direct testing methods. The Brake Test provides accurate results and is widely used for evaluating the performance of small and medium-sized DC machines.

A 10 hp, 600 rpm DC shunt motor draws a line current of 18 A at 500 V. Determine the efficiency of the motor assuming 1 hp = 735.5 W.

  1. 78.1%
  2. 71.8%
  3. 81.7%
  4. 82.8%

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : 81.7%

DC Motor Efficiency Question 13 Detailed Solution

Download Solution PDF

Concept

The efficiency of the motor is given by:

% η \(={P_{out}\over P_{in}}× 100\)

Calculation

Given, Pout = 10 × 735.5 = 7355 W

Pin = 500 × 18 = 9000 W

% η \(={P_{out}\over P_{in}}× 100\)

% η \(={7355\over 9000}× 100\)

% η = 81.7%

 

DC Motor Efficiency Question 14:

Find the current required by a 400 V, 10 H.P. DC motor at 73.55% efficiency.

  1. 35 A
  2. 20 A
  3. 30 A
  4. 25 A

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : 25 A

DC Motor Efficiency Question 14 Detailed Solution

Concept:

Consider a separately excited DC motor as,

Eb is back EMF developed in the motor at speed N rpm

V = Eb + Ia Ra .....(1)

V is the supply voltage

Ra is armature resistance

Ia is armature current

Vf is field supply

Rf is field winding resistance

If is field winding current

Let T is the torque developed by the armature of a motor running at N rpm.

Power developed in the armature of motor can be written as,

P = V Ia = Eb Ia+ I2a Ra

Thus the gross mechanical power output provided by the motor is

Pm = Eb I= V Ia -  I2a Ra(losses)

The efficiency of the motor is = Output Power(Pm) / Input power(P)

Calculation

P= 10 HP

= 10 × 746 = 7460 W

V = 400

η = 0.7355

η = 7460 / (400 × I) 

⇒ 0.7355 = 7460 / (400 × I) 

⇒ I = 25.35 ≈ 25 A

Additional Information

Maximum power condition:

If the value of \(\frac{dP_m}{dI_a}=0,\) the motor will deliver maximum power

\(\frac{dP_m}{dI_a}= V - 2I_aR_a = 0\)

Ia Ra = V / 2 ....(2)

From equation (1) & (2)

Eb = V / 2

The efficiency of the motor is = Output Power(Pm) / Input power(P)

\(η= \frac{E_b I_a }{VI_a }× 100=\frac{E_b }{V}× 100=50\)%

 

DC Motor Efficiency Question 15:

Constant losses of DC motor can be measured by:

  1. Swinburne's Test
  2. Retardation Test
  3. Hopkinson's Test
  4. Load Test

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Swinburne's Test

DC Motor Efficiency Question 15 Detailed Solution

Hopkinson’s test:

  • It is a full load test, used to test the efficiency of a DC machine.
  • Temperature rise and commutation can be observed and maintained in the limit because this test is done under full load condition.
  • It requires two identical machines that are coupled to each other. One of these two machines is operated as a generator to supply the mechanical power to the motor and the other is operated as a motor to drive the generator.
  • It is also called a regenerative test or back to back test or heat run test.

Swinburne’s test:

  • It is an indirect method of testing a DC machine. We can run the machine as a motor or as a generator.
  • In this method of testing, no-load or constant losses are measured separately and eventually, we can determine the efficiency.
  • This test is very convenient and economical as it is required very less power from supply to perform the test.
  • Since constant losses are known, the efficiency of Swinburne's test can be pre-determined at any load.

Retardation test:

This test is used to determine the moment of inertia and the frictional losses of the machine but is not specifically designed for measuring constant losses of DC motors.

Voltage drop test:

It is often carried out for checking the condition of the armature winding by using open and short circuit conditions of armature coil.

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