Your Guide to the Fundamentals of AC Induction Motors

In the modern landscape, AC motors have a bigger stake in the market compared to DC motors. This is in part due to their versatility in applications such as conveyors, cranes, pumps, elevators, and compressors – AC induction motors help serve the functions required in these industries.

Their efficiency and potential to be able to output continuous torque up to the rated speed for the rated output power for optimal functioning sets them apart.

Additionally, the minimalistic and simple design of an AC motor allows industrial businesses to take advantage of a motor with inherently low maintenance and power demands on start.  

The Workings of an AC Induction Motor

In order to power an AC motor, a source of electricity known as alternating current (AC) is required to power them. This AC allows for the conversion of electrical energy into mechanical energy; allowing the motor to carry out its intended function.

There is, however, another purpose AC serves – the magnetic field produced by the AC that flows through electric coils is harnessed to output rotational energy, as seen in wind turbines, as a result of the rotor core reacting to the magnetic field brought forth by the stator windings.

The Types of AC Induction Motors on the Market

AC induction motors, also known as asynchronous motors due to the rotor turning at a lower speed than the field, are categorised based on the number of stator windings that they have, and these come in two types:

1) Single-Phase Induction Motors – possessing only one, main, stator winding; these motors are common amongst industries operating in the agricultural, residential, and commercial sectors. All motors that are single-phased are used for situations where power requirements are ≤ ¾ horsepower.

2) Three-Phase Induction Motors – this three-phased set of stator windings is what you’ll see to be the most commonly used motor type for industrial applications, such as electronic cooling, printing equipment, pumps, lathes, and others. Due to the numerous benefits they provide over other motor types, such as their well-engineered construction, consistent speed regulation, and their self-starting capacity, it’s no surprise their adoption rate has been so high.

Our AC Motors Are Built to Last

Downtime in your daily operations can be costly and can significantly impact the bottom line for your business – an issue you don’t want originating from your AC motor.

The motors we manufacture in-house here at Bauer GMC are different – they’re built to last. We have the industry foresight, knowledge, and experience to know that the typical location of an induction motor makes it susceptible to a host of environments – our motors are designed with this in mind and manufactured with meticulous quality control procedures to keep you and your business operating as it should.

Get in touch with one of our expert staff who will make sure we have the right motor for you, no matter the industry!