Lab Mimics Motor, Power Systems

In the Introduction to Electrical Power Systems class, Electrical Engineering Technology students are experimenting and learning as they use machines that precisely mimic real power generation and motor systems, just on a smaller, safer scale.

Dr. Maciej Noras is teaching the class. An expert in power electronics and high-voltage power, Dr. Noras has designed the course and laboratory to provide students with a realistic hands-on learning experience.

“Last summer we set up a new power lab for the Engineering Technology students,” Dr. Noras said. “For the lab, we purchased equipment in the form of miniature power machines.”

The miniature power machines are Unitrain Experimenters made by Lucas-Nulle. The machines’ components can be arranged into numerous motor and power configurations

“A wonderful feature of the machines is students get to see inside to all the components,” Dr. Noras said. “This allows them to see how all the parts move, rotate and interact. And at only 15 volts, if they make a mistake and come into contact with the wrong thing, they will survive. It’s a great way to see how motors work.”

Another advantage of the machines is their portability. Everything fits into a single suitcase, allowing distance learning students to take the system home, hook it up to a lap-top computer and do their lab work.

For more information, contact Dr. Noras at mnoras@uncc.edu.