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Examoogle • User • info@examoogle.com • EE-2024-8821
Chapter 1 of 12 • Page 1 of 248🔒 Protected PDF • Watermarked
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The disadvantages of group drive electric machine is/are
Low efficiency
Low overload capacity
Can’t be used for constant operation
All of these
Can’t be used for constant operation
Quick Summary: Group drive refers to a system where a single large electric motor drives multiple machines through a line shaft, pulleys, and belts. While it reduces initial cost, it lacks flexibility because individual machines cannot be controlled independently or operated at varying speeds based on demand.
Group drive refers to a system where a single large electric motor drives multiple machines through a line shaft, pulleys, and belts. While it reduces initial cost, it lacks flexibility because individual machines cannot be controlled independently or operated at varying speeds based on demand.
Ptotal=∑Pi+Plosses — Total power required by a group drive including mechanical transmission losses
In a group drive system, a single motor acts as the prime mover for an entire workshop. Mechanical power is transmitted to individual machines via a series of shafts, belts, and gears. Because the motor operates at a constant speed dictated by the shaft, the individual machine processes are coupled, preventing independent control and making the setup inefficient for variable-speed applications.
High transmission losses due to belts, gears, and shafts.
Poor speed control as all machines are tied to a single motor speed.
If the main motor fails, the entire production line stops.
High maintenance requirement due to complex mechanical linkages.
Lower initial capital cost compared to individual drives
Suitable for uniform load profiles
Inflexible speed control
High energy loss in transmission
Single point of failure for entire workshop
High noise and vibration
Textile mills
Old workshops with constant-speed heavy machinery
Group drive was common in early industrialization but is largely obsolete due to advancements in Individual Drive systems.
Options A and B (Low efficiency and low overload capacity) are actually disadvantages of the system, but the inability to control constant operation (or independent operation) is the defining limitation of its architecture.
C is correct — The main drawback of a group drive system is the lack of individual control and the inability to operate specific machines independently of the master motor.
In competitive exams, remember that 'Individual Drive' is the preferred modern alternative because it provides independent control, higher efficiency, and better reliability for each machine.