What’s Direct Torque Control?

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Direct torque control is a method of optimizing and maintaining normal operation, typically within an alternating current (AC) motor. There are several applications for this type of control, usually in machines that require constant and reliable torque. Compared to other AC motor control methods, direct torque control has many advantages and disadvantages, although most of these depend on the application. Some technological possibilities allow and further improve this and other variable frequency drives, machines typically responsible for controlling the electrical energy supplied to a motor.

In essence, the direct torque control process involves monitoring certain variables within the engine and regulating the amount of power to keep those variables within an optimal range. Specifically, the main variables measured are voltage and current. From these values ​​it is possible to obtain the magnetic flux and the motor torque. Once these measurements have been made, the electric current fed to the motor is adjusted, if necessary, to maintain the optimum torque and flux ranges.

Applications for direct torque control are numerous in industrial processes, as many machines often require precise torque for long periods. Most often, direct torque control will be implemented on three-phase AC motors, although other designs can often integrate similar processes. The first experiments with direct torque control placed the systems inside locomotives and now direct torque control can be used in electric car motors.

The benefits of this type of control usually come from consistent measurements and adjustments made to optimize operations. Ideally, any adjustments will be made almost instantly. This can increase overall engine efficiency and help reduce energy loss. Additionally, this type of control can reduce a motor’s mechanical resonance, further increasing efficiency and even reducing audible machine noise at low speeds.

The disadvantages of these systems often start with incorrect measurements. There are often measurement errors at low speeds, for example, which can lead to improper adjustments and loss of efficiency. Incorrect measurements can also occur at high speeds and across the entire torque spectrum. As a result, high-quality measurement and monitoring equipment is generally required.

High-speed computer technologies play an important role in effective direct torque control. So many fast calculations are required that extremely fast computers and other digital controllers are often essential to make the correct adjustments in time. Additionally, speed and position sensors are often required, especially in slow speed applications.

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