Incidentally , these jigs are also manufactured in house , contributing to their philosophy for quick-responsemanufacturing . Combined with an inhouse copper drawing capability , means Luciano ' s team can produce high quality commutators in-house , without the unpredictability and lead times from external suppliers .
Creating Commutators
Variation in commutator designs , means the design and construction is a skilled task . Whether replacing a commutator like for like , or designing a bespoke dovetail , glass-banded , or steel shrunk design , their understanding of the manufacturing methods can help .
When replacing a commutator like for like , it helps PLD if you have the original manufacturer ’ s certificate , drawings and dimensions . If these are not available ,
PLD can work with you to understand the application of the equipment and come to a suitable work specification for the grade of materials to be used . In addition to this , material grades , and modern manufacturing methods mean that mechanical strengths in the commutator can be improved . This might be required if the machine is to operate at higher speeds than originally specified .
The way the commutator bars and mica insulations ( segment packs ) are mounted onto the steel hub defines the type of commutator , all their methods are designed to apply considerable counter force to hold the bars together despite the high speed centrifugal forces .
Dovetail or V-ring commutators are the most common method of mounting and are used in most applications . A V-shaped notch is cut in the front and back of the
( Left to Right ) Luciano and Dino Pesavento of PLD Collettori , Roberto Movio of Nestech .
Issue 33 PECM 75