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Reference.org
Brush (electric)
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<p>A brush or carbon brush is an <a href="/facts/Electrical_contact/eELyUxrd">electrical contact</a>, often made from specially prepared <a href="/facts/Carbon/ukrgQexo">carbon</a>, which conducts <a href="/facts/Current_(electricity)/Dc1xdnUX">current</a> between stationary and rotating parts (the latter most commonly being a rotating <a href="/facts/Axle/Eo5jWI3f">shaft</a>) of an <a href="/facts/Electric_machine/0DvFEdCD">electrical machine</a>. Typical applications include <a href="/facts/Electric_motor/ArD7BGDa">electric motors</a>, <a href="/facts/Alternator/r9KEPP9d">alternators</a> and <a href="/facts/Electric_generator/5sATsUGX">electric generators</a>. The lifespan of a carbon brush depends on how much the motor is used, and how much power is put through the motor. </p>