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When choosing large household appliances, and especially washing machines, we often hear such terms as "direct" and "indirect" drive. In order to understand what we are talking about, the principle of operation, what is the difference, advantages and disadvantages of both types of engines, we asked these questions to our partner - the household appliances and electronics store chain VM Technika.
The principle of operation
Let's start with the fact that the type of drive of the washing machine is closely related to the structure of the engine and the principle of its operation. Currently, there are two main types of motors on store shelves:
- Collector. In fact, it is a motor of a classic design. The rotor and stator create a torque, which, with the help of a belt, makes the drum rotate. The collector and brushes allow you to manage the process.
- Inverter or brushless. It also includes a stator and a rotor. But in this case, the collector and brushes were removed from the design. The speed of movement is controlled with the help of an inverter, which, due to current conversion, is able to smoothly adjust the voltage and frequency of the power supply.
It is from the presence of certain structural elements in the structure of the engine that the types of drives are named. If it is necessary to use a belt and brushes to start the drum of the washing machine, then this type of machine drive is called indirect. If such elements are absent, the drive is called direct.
Direct drive in washing machines began to be used with the development and improvement of inverter motors. This type of motors made it possible to directly transmit torque from the drum motor.
The first washing machine with a direct drive made a splash on the market in 2005. The LG company released such a miracle of technology. Subsequently, almost all giants in the production of household appliances added direct drive devices to their lines.
One more nuance should not be forgotten: inverter motors are also used by manufacturers in indirect drive systems. This makes it possible to increase the reliability and durability of washing machines, but does not remove the main disadvantage of the indirect drive - the need for frequent replacement of the belt, which is stretched.
Disadvantages and advantages
Let's start with machines with an indirect drive. The main advantages of such a structure are simplicity of design, high torque and resistance to overloads.
Indirect drive collector machines are an ideal choice on a limited budget. They are louder in operation, create a higher vibration, so you should pay more attention to their installation or definitely use anti-vibration mats or stands. However, these devices are quite reliable, easy to use, have high energy efficiency and are stable in operation.
Inverter belt washing machines have a slightly higher price tag, however:
- have higher efficiency, better energy efficiency and greater durability;
- the structural absence of brushes as a connecting element reduces the need for frequent maintenance;
- create a significantly lower level of noise and vibration;
- smooth speed change and clear tension adjustment allow you to keep the belt whole and intact for longer.
Collector washing machines require service every 6-12 months, inverter machines - once every 1-2 years.
The direct drive is considered to be the most reliable, quietest, most stable and most economical design of the washing machine. In all the above parameters, they are superior to belt models. However, they have one significant drawback for buyers — cost. Such washing machines the price tag can be many times higher than options with an indirect drive.
The high cost of direct-drive washing machines is due to expensive production. This technology is relatively new and requires specialized equipment. Plus, the manufacturers themselves use the latest achievements to create premium lines of household appliances.
Therefore, future users have the opportunity and plenty of options to choose which washing machine to buy: classic collector, belt on an inverter motor or direct drive. The functionality of the models is quite wide and varied. As well as the dimensions of the models. The most important issue remains only the purchase budget.
