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?
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
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.
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
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?
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
DC Motor Efficiency Question 3 Detailed Solution
Concept
The circuit diagram of the DC shunt motor is:
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.
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
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.
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
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.
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
DC Motor Efficiency Question 6 Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFConcept:
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 Ia = V Ia - I2a Ra(losses)
The efficiency of the motor is = Output Power(Pm) / Input power(P)
Calculation
Pm = 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:
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
DC Motor Efficiency Question 7 Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFHopkinson’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?
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
DC Motor Efficiency Question 8 Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFThe 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.
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
DC Motor Efficiency Question 9 Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFThe 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?
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
DC Motor Efficiency Question 10 Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFPower flow in DC Motor:
Electrical input is given by:
I = VT × Ia
where I = electrical input
VT = supply voltage
Ia = armature current
Developed power is given by:
Pd = Eb × Ia
where Pd = 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.
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
DC Motor Efficiency Question 11 Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFPower 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?
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
DC Motor Efficiency Question 12 Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFExplanation:
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.
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
DC Motor Efficiency Question 13 Detailed Solution
Download Solution PDFConcept
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.
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
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 Ia = V Ia - I2a Ra(losses)
The efficiency of the motor is = Output Power(Pm) / Input power(P)
Calculation
Pm = 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:
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
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.