In an electric motor, brushes are conductive components that make sliding contact with the rotating commutator or slip rings to transmit electrical current from the external circuit into the motor’s windings. This current flow creates electromagnetic fields that interact with the motor’s rotor, causing it to rotate. Brushes are typically made of carbon or graphite and are designed to withstand the high electrical currents and frictional forces involved in motor operation.
Brushes play a vital role in the operation of electric motors, enabling the efficient transfer of electrical energy into mechanical energy. They are commonly used in a wide range of motors, including DC motors, universal motors, and some types of AC motors. The use of brushes in motors dates back to the early days of electrical engineering, and they remain an essential component in many applications today.