Brushed DC Motors

Brushed DC Motors are the classic DC motors, which include a split ring commutator, and can be powered by any kind of DC battery. These motors are often considered to be limited, due to the need that brushes will always be in contact with the commutator ring, hence creating friction. Brushes also scratch the surface of the ring, which eventually will lead to replacement of the brushes and ring.

Although the brushes in these motors were originally made from copper wire (now obsolete), they are now made from carbon, which is a longer-lasting material, gives less friction, and is cheaper.

The advantages of Brushed DC motors are that their initial cost is extremely low, and that they have an extremely simple speed control system (Dynamo). However, it is the brushless DC motor which is recommended by most.