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Jan 10, 2017 - Single-Phase Motor - Types, Uses, Advantages and Disadvantages

Depending on the type of machine and application you require, some motors will work better than others. If you are running smaller equipment that requires less horsepower, a single-phase motor will work best for your needs.

While this type of motor typically lasts for years, over time it will wear out. If you are looking to replace a single-phase motor, Bonfiglio has a range of BS - Single Phase Motors. These motors are manufactured to the applicable IEC standards and are of the enclosed type, externally ventilated and with run capacitor permanently connected. If you are interested in installing a new single-phase motor, request a quote from Gordon Russell today. Keep reading to find out more about single-phase motors.

Difference Between Single and Three Phase

There are two types of motors, a single-phase motor and a three-phase motor. Single-phase motors need less maintenance than three-phase motors, and will often last for years longer. These motors are typically used in devices and equipment that require lower levels of horsepower, or when it is inefficient to use a three-phase motor.

Single phase motors have a similar construction to the three phase motor, including an AC winding that is placed on the stator, and short-circuited conductors that are placed in a cylindrical rotor. The biggest difference between the two motors is that with a single phase motor, there is only one phase supply to the stator (hence the name).

Single-Phase Motors Summary

Types: There are a few different types of single-phase motors; some of these are two-valve capacitor, capacitor-start, split-phase, permanent-split capacitor, wound rotor and shaded-pole motors. Each type of motor has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

Uses: Single-phase motors are used in equipment and machines that are smaller in size and require lower horsepower (for example, one horsepower). This include equipment such as pumps, refrigerators, fans, compressors, and portable drills.

Operation: Single-phase induction motors are not self-starting without an auxiliary stator winding driven by an out of phase current. The auxiliary winding of a permanent-split capacitor motor has a capacitor in series with it during starting and running. Single-phase motors don’t create a magnetic field on their own, so they must be switch activated in order to make the rotor move. This type of motor is only able to operate once the rotor is set in motion and a magnetic field is created.

Advantages:  There are many benefits to single-phase motors. For starters, single-phase motors are less expensive to manufacture than most other types of motors. Single-phase motors typically require very little maintenance, don’t often require repairs, and when they do they are fairly easy to complete. Single-phase motors will last for years as well, and usually most failures from single-phase motors are a result of inappropriate application rather than a manufacturing defect from the motor itself.  

Disadvantages: While single-phase motors are simple mechanics-wise, this does not mean that they are perfect and nothing can go wrong. On occasion they have been known to run slow, overheat, or even fail to start, overheat or run slow. If a shock is felt while touching the motor, there is a problem with the motor that will need to be repaired immediately.

Interested in installing or upgrading to the Bonfiglioli single-phase motor? Call Gordon Russell at at (604) 940-1627 (BC), or (403) 340-8856 (Alberta). Or request a quote online today!