IEEE 113-1985

IEEE 113-1985 is a technical guide for test procedures for direct-current machines, offering a practical basis for evaluating DC motor and generator performance. It is relevant where consistent measurement, verification, and comparison of machine results matter in power, energy, and industrial applications. By focusing on test procedures rather than design theory, the standard helps engineers and buyers align on how a machine should be checked, reported, and interpreted during inspection, development, or maintenance.

IEEE 113-1985 overview

This guide addresses the testing of direct-current machines in a structured and repeatable way. IEEE 113-1985 supports users who need a common approach to assessing electrical and operational characteristics such as performance under test conditions, so results can be compared with greater confidence. As a guide, it is generally used to inform engineering practice, lab procedures, and acceptance discussions for DC equipment rather than to define product design requirements.

Typical use cases

IEEE 113-1985 is commonly used when laboratories, manufacturers, or maintenance teams need a consistent procedure for checking direct-current machines before service or after repair. It may support testing of DC motors, generators, and related rotating equipment used in industrial drives, utility applications, and other systems where dependable electrical performance is important. The guide is also useful in procurement and quality workflows when test results must be documented in a clear, comparable format.

Why this standard matters

For organizations working with direct-current machines, IEEE 113-1985 helps reduce ambiguity in test preparation, measurement, and reporting. That can improve consistency across facilities, support more reliable acceptance decisions, and lower the risk of comparing results that were produced using different methods. Because the standard is inactive, it is often most valuable for legacy equipment, historical documentation, or projects that still reference established DC machine testing practices. IEEE 113-1985 remains a useful reference point for technical control and review.

• Test procedures for direct-current machines
• Performance evaluation and comparison
• Laboratory, factory, and maintenance testing
• Support for DC motors and generators
• Documentation for inspection and acceptance