The influence of voltage unbalance on NEMA motor performance
Voltage unbalance can be more detrimental than voltage variation to motor performance and motor life. When the line voltages applied to a polyphase induction motor are not equal in magnitude and phase angle, unbalanced currents in the stator windings will… Read more
Jan 27, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Considerations to take into account when designing PLC ladder logic
Motor control circuits are often implemented using ladder logic. It is so called because the schematic representation of the control circuit resembles a ladder with two vertical rails and a number of horizontal rungs, as shown in Figure 1. The… Read more
Jan 18, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Specifying energy efficient motor, cabling and local power transformer
Many energy saving actions can encourage specifiers and engineers to look closely at the savings which can be made by specifying an energy efficient version of a particular component. This technical article presents the case for taking the important step… Read more
Jan 09, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Main features that make AC drive the leading motor control method
We can confidently say that the AC drive is the leading motor control method. This technical article deals with a closer look at the different features of the AC drive, and the levels of performance the drive can offer. In this… Read more
Dec 23, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Sizing of motors and frequency converters for a particular machine load
Manufacturers of electric motors and frequency converters have evolved various methods for quickly selecting the size of motors and frequency converters for a particular machine load. The same basic procedure is used by most applications engineers. These days, applications selections… Read more
Dec 12, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Traditional Star-Delta motor starting method used in practice
Due to their simplicity, robustness and cost-effectiveness, squirrel cage motors are the preferred choice of industry. During start-up, they develop currents of up to approximately 8 times the rated current and the high starting torque linked to this. The high… Read more
Nov 18, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Line harmonic currents created by adjustable frequency control
Nonlinear loads like adjustable frequency controls create line harmonics when connected to the AC power distribution system. These harmonic currents are a result of non-sinusoidal current, which is a characteristic of all adjustable frequency controls using diodes or silicon controlled rectifiers (SCRs)… Read more
Nov 05, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Wiring of control power transformer for motor control circuits
The motor branch circuit is usually a segment of a larger electrical distribution network in an industrial plant. The motor circuit supplies the required power to the various control devices in order for them to operate. In some cases, the various… Read more
Oct 28, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
14 electrical characteristics of the motor you should know
Electrical characteristics like voltage, frequency and phase of power supply should be consistent with the motor nameplate rating. A motor will operate satisfactorily on voltage within 10% of nameplate value, or frequency within 5%, or combined voltage and frequency variation… Read more
Oct 24, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
What details a motor nameplate shows and how to use them
We have all seen the motor nameplate attached on the motor side (or on top). All motors have a permanent nameplate which lists all important data, further data is usually available in the motor catalogue. It is important to recognize… Read more
Aug 26, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Motor wiring guidelines (Cable shielding, grounding and splicing techniques)
This technical article describes shielding, grounding, and splicing techniques for use with motor wiring. This article covers the following topics: Understanding noise in motor power wiring Shielding motor power cables Grounding motor power cable shields Applying ferrite sleeves Splicing motor… Read more
Aug 19, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Three applications where variable speed drive really rocks!
Many industrial sectors have discovered the benefits of using variable speed drive (VSD) control in a wide variety of applications. Businesses in the commercial and public sectors can also utilise the benefits of VSDs, largely in applications involving pumps and… Read more
Aug 03, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Challenge your electrician skills with these 15 questions
Whether you are professional or a novice in a field of electrical engineering, it’s always a good idea to challenge your electrician skills from time to time. This is your small opportunity to pinpoint your strengths and weaknesses and to… Read more
Jul 25, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Electricity and water do not form a happy partnership, do they?
Electricity and water do not form a happy partnership and so it is often necessary to “dry out” insulation. This may be done to remove surface moisture or perhaps to drive moisture from the internals of the insulation. Indeed some… Read more
Jul 13, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
6 Common Setting Parameters Available On Most Of The Softstarters
This technical article includes a short description of six common setting parameters available on most of the softstarters. Other settings may be available depending on the type of softstarter and manufacturer. The setting can be done either by adjusting potentiometers, changing… Read more
Jun 27, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
