Ward Leonard speen control method

Ward Leonard control system is introduced by Henry Ward Leonard in 1891. Ward Leonard method of speed control is used for controlling the speed of a DC motor. It is a basic armature control method. This control system is consisting of a dc motor M₁ and powered by a DC generator G. In this method the speed of the dc motor (M_1) is controlled by applying variable voltage across its armature. This variable voltage is obtained using a motor-generator set which consists of a motor M₂ (either AC or DC motor) directly coupled with the generator G. It is a very widely used method of speed control of DC motor.

Principle of Ward Leonard Method

Basic connection diagram of the Ward Leonard speed control system is shown in the figure below.

The speed of motor M₁ is to be controlled which is powered by the generator G. The shunt field of the motor M₁ is connected across the DC supply lines. Now, generator G is driven by the motor M₂. The speed of the motor M₂ is constant.

When the output voltage of the generator is fed to the motor M₁ then the motor starts to rotate. When the output voltage of the generator varies then the speed of the motor also varies. Now controlling the output voltage of the generator the speed of motor can also be controlled. For this purpose of controlling the output voltage, a field regulator is connected across the generator with the dc supply lines to control the field excitation. The direction of rotation of the motor M₁ can be reversed by excitation current of the generator and it can be done with the help of the reversing switch R.S. But the motor-generator set must run in the same direction.

Advantages of Ward Leonard System

1. It is a very smooth speed control system over a very wide range.
(from zero to normal speed of the motor).
2. The speed can be controlled in both the direction of rotation of
the motor easily.
3. The motor can run with a uniform acceleration.
4. Speed regulation of DC motor in this ward Leonard
system is very good.
5. It has inherent regenerative braking property.

Disadvantages of Ward Leonard System

1. The system is very costly because two extra machines
(motor-generator set) are required.
2. Overall efficiency of the system is not sufficient especially
if it is lightly loaded.
3. Larger size and weight. Requires more floor area.
4. Frequent maintenance.
5. The drive produces more noise.

Application of Ward Leonard System

This Ward Leonard method of speed control system is used where a very wide and very sensitive speed control is of a DC motor in both the direction of rotation is required. This speed control system is mainly used in colliery winders, cranes, electric excavators, mine hoists, elevators, steel rolling mills, paper machines,diesel-locomotives, etc.