Simple DC Motor

This is a simple guide on how to build a DC motor.

To make this you will need: a battery (I used 9v), a wood block, electrical tape, 2 paper clips, some thumb tacks, a magnet, a battery snap, and copper while to make a rotor.

Wind the copper wire to create a rotor. I would recommend coiling it round a circular object, and coiling it 9 times. *The next step is very important*. Using sand paper, strip the top half of one side of the wire. Then, strip all 360 degrees of the wire on the other side.

Bend two large(ish) paper clips to act as supports for the rotor (image shown above).

Use thumb tacks to hold down the paperclips to the wooden base. When you have figured out where you want your paperclips, use a hammer to down the thumb tacks into the base. Do not fully hammer the thumb tacks yet. Attach the battery clip to the battery and tuck one of the ends of the wire under one of the thumb tacks. Then hammer down the thumb tack fully and repeat on the other side. If you want, you can secure the battery with electrical tape. Next, place the magnet in the middle of the two paperclips. Then, place electrical wire round the bottom of each paperclip to stop them being attracted to the magnet. Finally, put the rotor in the paperclip supports, and give the rotor a little push. Your motor should now be functional.

If your motor is not working, there are a few things you can check. First, if everything connected properly. Second, if you have correctly sanded the rotor. Next, that your rotor and magnet are not touching. Also, check that your rotor is not too heavy. Finally, you may need to switch your rotor to the opposite side.

Please remember to be careful when testing this motor. DC motors can get very hot and spark.