Introduction: DC Motor Project

This is our project about how we, as a group of emerging scientists, built a DC motor. In short, a DC motor is when you use an electromagnet that tries to line up with the permanent magnets that surround it. This creates a spinning motion which is the essence of a motor. The term 'DC' stands for 'direct current'. This type of motor is one that turns energy from the direct current of the circuit and turns it into mechanical energy.




Attachments

Supplies

The paraphernalia needed to create a simple, functioning, low-cost DC motor include:

  1. Wood block
  2. Copper wire (approximately 30 cm)
  3. Jumbo paper clips x2
  4. Type D battery
  5. Electrical tape
  6. Small permanent magnet
  7. Alligator clip wires x2
  8. Battery holder
  9. Wire cutters
  10. Marker

Step 1: Support for the Wire

Firstly, bend two paper clips to make a support for the wire. Make sure to keep a loop hole on each paper clip.

Next, tape the paper clips to each end of the wood block using the electrical tape.

Step 2: Create the Coils

Then, cut the copper wire using your wire cutters. Wrap your copper wire around the marker multiple times to create a coil. Leave a few centimeters of wire on each end.

Pull the marker out from the coil and loop the ends of the wire around for the coil to hold its shape.


Step 3: Removing Insulation

Next, sand both ends of the copper wire. This removes the insulation.

Step 4: Add Wire to Supports

Place the wire into the loop holes of each paper clip.

In addition, put the permanent magnet under the coil.

Step 5: Connecting the Electricity

Put the type D battery in the battery holder.

Use the alligator clip wires and connect them to the paper clips, and the battery holder.

Step 6: Complete

Finally, flick the coil so the DC motor begins spinning.