Currently, energy-efficient appliances are necessary due to the shortage of energy resources. Therefore, Universal motors, DC motors or induction motors are used in all domestic appliances. Mixer grinders are measured by their motor’s wattage. Wattage determines the power of an appliance. The fact remains that power does not always equate to better performance. A mixer grinder’s size and frequency of use will also affect your decision when choosing one. However, in this article, we will mainly focus on the motor that are used in a mixer grinder, to give you an idea on how the heart of your mixer grinder i.e. the motor works. So keep reading.
Understand the Motor?
Universal motor is used in mixer grinders. Other household appliances, such as refrigerators and fans, utilize this motor as well. Universal motors are special motors that can run on single-phase DC or AC power sources. Generally, these motors have series winding, which produces maximum starting torque. Because of this, universal motors are typically integrated into the machinery they power. A universal motor generally operates at speeds of more than 3,500 revolutions per minute. As a result of the reactance voltage drop present in AC rather than DC, they run slower on AC than on DC of the same voltage.
Why is it Essential that a Mixer Grinder have a Robust Motor?
Mixer grinders are appliances that perform two functions at once. The mixer can be used to beat liquids or pastes into a smooth consistency. In addition to grinding spices and masalas, it can also be used for grinding meat. Thus, efficiencies can only be achieved with a powerful motor. By using a powerful motor, ingredients can be thoroughly mixed without lumps, thanks to the blades of the mixer grinder. Additionally, it ensures the mixer grinder blades can grind hard food items like nuts and seeds smoothly without any problems.
Here, are some mixer grinders with copper winding motor
Benefits of Using the Universal Motor in Mixer-Grinders
There are several home appliances that use universal motors, such as fans, mixer grinders, refrigerators, etc.
- They are powered by both AC and DC voltages.
- As a result of its smaller size and high starting torque at low speeds, it is capable of carrying heavy loads with higher power output.
- Electromechanically or electronically through tapped coils, they are also easy to control.
- There is no limit to the speed of universal motors, regardless of load.
- The speed can be varied within a multiple of the line frequency without the use of a rotating field impressed on them to make them turn
- They also have the advantage of being easy to control in terms of speed. A triac dimmer switch-like circuit is an example of a simple control that can be used effectively
Is a Mixer Grinder AC or DC?
Mixer grinders, also known as blenders, are a common household appliance found in most kitchens. But what type of power do they use – alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC)? The answer is that the vast majority of mixer grinders are designed to operate on AC power.
AC vs DC Power
First, let’s overview the difference between AC and DC power:
- AC power refers to an electric current that changes direction cyclically. The voltage goes up and down in a sinusoidal waveform. Grid power from power stations is AC power. Most appliances are designed for AC.
- DC power refers to an electric current that flows in one direction only. Batteries provide DC power. Some vehicles and electronics can run on DC, but it must be converted from AC grids.
Appliance Power Supply Types
Appliance | Power Supply |
TV, refrigerator, microwave, washer | AC power |
Laptop, phone, electric toothbrush | Can use AC or DC |
Handheld blender, vacuum | Either AC or DC |
Why Mixer Grinders Use AC Power
Nearly all mixer grinders are powered by AC electricity for the following reasons:
- Kitchen outlet voltages (120V or 220-240V) are AC. Mixer grinders are directly plugged into kitchen wall outlets without a converter.
- AC motors are economical for high wattage devices like blenders with 300+ watts. The motors are based on simple electromagnetic induction.
- AC power allows a solid performance over fluctuating loads. Blending ingredients requires rapidly variable torque.
- Safety regulations often require kitchen appliances to be AC-powered. DC blenders would need a certified converter.
Exceptions and Special Cases
Some exceptions where you may find a DC-powered mixer grinder include:
- Battery-powered blenders designed for travel/camping usage
- Blenders in vehicles, portable food carts or food trucks
- Very low wattage mini blenders with less demanding loads
But the vast majority of household and commercial mixer grinders run on readily available AC power. So when purchasing one for your kitchen, AC compatibility should be assumed.
How does an electric motor run in a mixer grinder?
A mixer grinder contains an electric motor which provides the power to operate the appliance. The key components of the electric motor are:
Stator – The stationary part containing windings through which electric current flows to produce a rotating magnetic field.
Rotor – The rotating part containing windings that rotate in the magnetic field produced by the stator.
Shaft – Connected to the rotor and used to transfer the rotational motion to the blender blades.
The working principle of the motor is electromagnetic induction. When alternating current flows through the stator, it generates a rotating magnetic field. This rotating field induces a current in the rotor windings, producing another magnetic field. The interaction of the two magnetic fields leads to the rotation of the rotor.
Typical specifications of a mixer grinder motor:
Parameter | Value |
Operating Voltage | 220-240 V AC |
Speed | 18,000-22,000 rpm |
Power Rating | 500-750 watts |
Efficiency | 60-75% |
The high speed of the electric motor is essential to enable the mixer grinder blades to finely grind, blend and process foods. The output shaft of the motor is connected to a gearbox which further increases the speed while also amplifying the torque. This allows effective functioning of the blender even for tough ingredients.
The motor takes in electrical energy from the power socket and converts it into mechanical energy using electromagnetic principles. This mechanical energy from the motor rotates the blades at high speeds, thus enabling the mixer grinder’s blending and grinding functionality. Appropriate gearing and optimized blade design are other critical factors along with the electric motor for the appliance’s working.
Conclusion
You will be able to decide whether to buy a mixer grinder based on the motor of the product. A mixer grinder with a motor of 750 Watts is ideal for an Indian home kitchen, where grinding takes place regularly and 1000 watt motor is ideal if you require to prepare a large batch, may not be a good idea to choose a motor with a higher power rating for home kitchens since it will cause more noise and vibration. Mixer grinders have a limit on the amount of load they can handle because of the power of their motors.