Special Electric Machines by Rajini and Nagarajan by Pearson

9

Linear Motors

Topics Discussed

• ❖ Introduction
• ❖ Evolution of Linear Motor from Rotary Motor
• ❖ Applications, Advantages and Disadvantage
• ❖ Various Types of Linear Motors
• ❖ Working Principle
• ❖ Winding Structure
• ❖ Types of Configurations

9.1 Introduction

A linear electric motor is a type of electric motor that converts electrical energy into linear motion. It does this by using a magnetic field to create a force that pushes or pulls a moving part.

The evolution of linear electric motors are as follows:

• In 1800s, scientists Alfred Zehden and Frank J. Sprague started experimenting with linear electric motor concepts.
• During the 1930s, Dr. Eric Laithwaite, a British engineer and professor, made significant contributions to the development ...