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Top Motors That Require Soft Starters: Why Three-Phase Induction Motors Dominate

2024-08-16

Soft starters are devices used to control the startup of electric motors, making the process smoother and less stressful for both the motor and the equipment it powers. By reducing the initial surge of electricity when the motor starts, soft starters help to prevent damage and extend the lifespan of the motor. Here's a look at the main types of motors that typically use soft starters and why they are essential.

 

Proportion of Motors That Use Soft Starters.webp

 

 1. Three-Phase Induction Motors (Asynchronous Motors)

   - Proportion: About 70-80% of applications.
   - Why: Three-phase induction motors are the workhorses of many industrial settings. They power large machines like pumps, fans, and conveyor belts. When these motors start, they can draw a lot of current, which can cause electrical problems and wear out the motor over time.

Soft starters for 3phase induction motors gradually increase the power, reducing the stress on the motor and the equipment it drives, leading to longer life and more reliable operation.

 

 2. Synchronous Motors

   - Proportion: Approximately 10-15% of applications.
   - Why: Synchronous motors are used in situations where precise speed control is needed, such as in large compressors or power generation. These motors have a rotor that needs to synchronize with the electrical supply before it can start properly.

Soft starters help manage this synchronization process smoothly, reducing wear and tear during startup and ensuring the motor runs efficiently.

 

 3. Single-Phase Motors

   - Proportion: Around 5-10% of applications.
   - Why: Single-phase motors are often used in smaller machines like household appliances or HVAC systems. While they don't always need soft starters, larger single-phase motors can benefit from them. By controlling the startup current, soft starters can help prevent electrical issues and improve the reliability of these motors, especially in situations where the power supply might be limited.

 

 4. Wound Rotor Motors

   - Proportion: Less than 5% of applications.
   - Why: Wound rotor motors are a special type of induction motor used in heavy-duty applications like cranes or mills, where high torque is needed at startup.

Soft starters help control the torque, allowing the motor to start smoothly and reducing the risk of mechanical damage to the equipment.


 Key Takeaways:
- Soft starters are most commonly used with three-phase induction motors because of their widespread use in heavy industrial applications.
- Synchronous motors use soft starters to ensure they synchronize properly with the electrical supply, which is crucial for their operation.
- Single-phase motors and wound rotor motors use soft starters in more specialized cases, often when dealing with larger machines or specific startup needs.


 

If you are in need of soft starters for three-phase asynchronous motors, we invite you to explore XICHI's diverse range of soft starter products.