Circuit and function
An auto-transformer starter makes it possible to start squirrel-cage induction motors with reduced starting current, as the voltage across the motor is reduced during starting.
In contrast to the star-delta connection, only three motor leads and terminals are required. On starting, the motor is connected to the tappings of the auto-transformer; transformer contactor K2M and star contactor K1M are closed.
The motor starts at the voltage reduced by the transformer, with a correspondingly smaller current.
Depending on the tapping and starting current ratio of the motor, the starting current lies at (1 … 5) · Ie. In contrast, the motor torque falls with the square of the voltage across the windings. Auto-transformers usually have three available taps in each phase (for example 80 %, 65 %, 50 %), so that the motor starting characteristic can be adjusted to the load conditions.
If the motor has reached 80 … 95 % of its rated speed (depending on the desired reduction of the current surge after switching-over), the star contactor K1M on the transformer is opened.
Now the transformer part-windings act as chokes. The motor voltage is only reduced by the chokes below the supply voltage and the motor speed does not fall. The main contactor K3M closes via auxiliary contacts of the star contactor and applies the full supply voltage to the motor.
For its part, the main contactor K3M drops out the transformer contactor K2M.
The entire procedure is thus uninterrupted.
Rating of the starter
The main contactor K3M and the motor protective device F1 are selected according to the motor rated operational current Ie. Transformer contactor and star contactor are only briefly closed during starting.
The star contactor also operates with every start-up during switching-over. The values of the rated operational currents for the transformer contactor K2M, depending on the start time and starting current, are between (0.3 … 1) · Ie, for the star contactor between (0.45 … 0.55) · Ie.
Testing AC Motors and Working on Westinghouse Generator
Resource: Allen Bradley – Low Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear
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Edvard Csanyi
Hi, I'm an electrical engineer, programmer and founder of EEP - Electrical Engineering Portal. I worked twelve years at Schneider Electric in the position of technical support for low- and medium-voltage projects and the design of busbar trunking systems.I'm highly specialized in the design of LV/MV switchgear and low-voltage, high-power busbar trunking (<6300A) in substations, commercial buildings and industry facilities. I'm also a professional in AutoCAD programming.
Profile: Edvard Csanyi
What is the rating MCCB should use for 132kW 3 phase motor if using auto transformer starter?
Hi all? In autotransformer starting motor controlling mechanism, is autotransformer used only starting or it also always live in running conditions ? thanks
very good
1st to thanks to the founder of this articles as its so much helpful to us technician ..about soft starter how to set up a parameter bases on motor type and hp..
Hi,
Is possible to run multiple motor with one autotransformer ?
what means by Transformer torquing?
Basic calculations show that motor current increases when an under voltage occurs. The auto transformer starter operates by lowering the motor voltage in order to reduce the starting current, how is this possible?
The current does surge during start up, yes. Think of it as sort of “damage limitation”. By lowering the voltage and current through the transformer, that surge will be less and therefore cause less disruption to other loads.
I want to start 3 electric motors, one 150 hp, and two 100 hp. on one auto transformer. I have all the switching for 3 individual systems but only 1 transformer. I know how to wire 1 motor to 1 transformer. How do I go about wiring the timers, small relays and interlocks?
Thank you,
Darrell Bardin
I have a question, the autotransformer method has 3 selectable taps to chooce which are normally 80%, 65% and 50%. How to choose which tap we should change for motor starting?
In order to progress my Arc Flash study – I require typical kVA and Z values for transformers used in an auto-transformer motor starter application. The motors using this type of starter are 90 kW and 45 kW. When speaking to transformer manufacturers in Australia – these values are not readily, if at all available. Can you suggest where I may find such information?
Very nice thanks for this.
very interesting note,,,,,I like it.I need the control circuit for autotransformer starter,and am not clear how to select the star and autotransformer contactor(KM1&KM2)
Firstly, thanks for this information.
what is the importance of star contactor K1M?
i mean why dont we connect Y directly…
Hi:
How to design a auto-transformer starter control circuit so it can prevent from the auto transformer burning?
Use the high insulation capacity conductor or use the good quality paper
Hi,
How do I size the transformer, do you have an excel sheet for calculation & also how do I select cable conductor size.
Take as look at section MS Excel Spreadsheets:
https://electrical-engineering-portal.com/download-center/electrical-ms-excel-spreadsheets
Actually there are some sheets you will find usefull.
Best regards,
Edvard
Thanks Edward.