Explain the function of: armature,brushes and split rings in an electric motor.

An electric motor is a device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, and it typically consists of several essential components, including the armature, brushes, and split rings. Let's explore the function of each of these components:

Armature:
The armature is the rotating part of the electric motor. It is usually made up of a cylindrical stack of steel laminations with evenly spaced slots, and these slots hold insulated wire windings. When an electric current flows through the armature windings, it generates a magnetic field. The armature is mounted on an axle or shaft and rotates within the motor's magnetic field.
The primary function of the armature is to interact with the magnetic field produced by the stator (stationary part of the motor) and create mechanical motion. As the armature rotates, the changing magnetic field induces an electromagnetic force that causes the armature to spin, which drives the motor's mechanical output, such as the rotation of a fan or the wheels of an electric vehicle.

Brushes:
The brushes are small conductive components made from materials like carbon or graphite. They are usually held in brush holders and make direct contact with the armature's commutator. The commutator is a segmented cylindrical structure mounted on the armature shaft.
The main function of the brushes is to deliver electrical current from an external power source (e.g., a battery or power outlet) to the armature windings. As the armature rotates, the brushes maintain continuous contact with the commutator segments, ensuring a steady flow of electrical current into the armature windings. The commutator's segmented design allows the brushes to switch the direction of the current in the armature windings, enabling the armature to keep rotating in the same direction.

Split Rings (also known as Commutator Segments):
The split rings, also referred to as commutator segments, are part of the commutator located on the armature shaft. The commutator is divided into multiple segments, and each segment is connected to one end of the armature winding.
The main function of the split rings is to facilitate the reversal of the current direction in the armature windings. As the armature spins, the brushes make contact with different commutator segments, and this changes the direction of the current in the armature coils at the right moment. The reversal of the current direction in the armature windings ensures that the magnetic forces continue to push the armature in the same rotational direction, allowing the motor to sustain its motion.

In summary, the armature, brushes, and split rings work together to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy in an electric motor. The armature rotates within the magnetic field produced by the stator, and the brushes and split rings play crucial roles in supplying current to the armature windings and reversing the current direction at the appropriate time to maintain continuous rotation.