Asynchronous Motors

Asynchronous Motors







The most common motors of all are asynchronous motors that use alternating-current or three-phase technology. Alternating-current capacitor motors, which have already been mentioned, also belong to this group. An extremely simple design and easy operation are two of the main advantages of this type of motor.

The term "asynchronous" refers to the difference between the speed of the rotary field and the speed of the rotor. Both speeds are asynchronous to one another. The greater the mechanical load on the motor shaft, the greater the speed difference (slip in %) and the amount of power consumed by the motor coils. The asynchronous motor would not generate any torque without this difference in speed. At the same time, this explains the high starting current. The performance ranges of asynchronous motors extend from small alternating-current motors in model railways to industrial motors operating in the megawatt range.

The two main disadvantages of asynchronous motors are the high starting currents and poor suitability as a generator for hybrid technology.