- With reference to a 440 Volt, 3-phase motor supplied with six terminal connection in the terminal box:
(a) sketch a Delta connection, showing the relationship between phase and line voltages;
(b) sketch a Star connection, showing the relationship between phase and line voltages;(2)
(c) state the relative speed of both connections;(2)
(d) sketch and label the terminal link connections so the motor will run in permanent Delta mode.(4)
Delta connection
A delta connection in a 440 Volt, 3-phase motor with six terminal connections involves connecting the motor windings in a triangular configuration.
Here’s how it’s done:
- Identify the Terminals: The six terminals in the terminal box are typically labeled U1, U2, V1, V2, W1, and W2. These represent the start and end points of each of the three motor windings.
- Connect the Windings:
- Connect the end of one winding (e.g., U2) to the start of the next winding (V1).
- Connect the end of the second winding (V2) to the start of the third winding (W1).
- Connect the end of the third winding (W2) back to the start of the first winding (U1).
- This creates a closed loop or triangle, hence the name “delta.”
- Connect to Power Supply: The three power supply lines (L1, L2, L3) are then connected to the three junctions (corners) of the delta:
- L1 to the junction of U1 and W2
- L2 to the junction of U2 and V1
- L3 to the junction of V2 and W1
Key Points:
- Higher Current: Delta connections draw a higher line current compared to star connections for the same power output.
- Higher Starting Torque: They provide higher starting torque, which can be beneficial for applications requiring heavy starting loads.
- No Neutral: There’s no neutral point in a delta connection, so it’s not suitable for applications requiring a neutral connection.
- Common for High-Power Motors: Delta connections are often used for high-power motors in industrial settings due to their higher current and torque capabilities.
Important: Always refer to the motor’s nameplate and any accompanying documentation for specific connection instructions and safety precautions. Incorrect wiring can damage the motor or create electrical hazards.
Star connection
In a star connection, also known as a wye connection, the three windings of a 440 Volt, 3-phase motor are connected at a common point called the neutral or star point.
Here’s how it’s done:
- Identify the Terminals: The six terminals in the terminal box are labeled U1, U2, V1, V2, W1, and W2, representing the start and end points of each winding.
- Connect the Windings:
- Connect the ends of all three windings together (U2, V2, and W2). This creates the star point.
- Leave the starts of the windings (U1, V1, and W1) unconnected.
- Connect to Power Supply:
- The three power supply lines (L1, L2, L3) are connected to the starts of the windings (U1, V1, and W1).
- If a neutral connection is required, it’s connected to the star point.
Key Points:
- Lower Current: Star connections draw lower line current compared to delta connections for the same power output. This can be beneficial for reducing starting current and protecting the motor and power supply.
- Lower Starting Torque: They provide lower starting torque, suitable for applications where high starting torque is not required.
- Neutral Connection: The star point provides a neutral connection, which can be useful for certain applications or for providing a reference point for voltage measurements.
- Common for Lower Power Motors or Starting: Star connections are often used for lower power motors or for starting larger motors to reduce the initial current surge.
Important:
- Always consult the motor’s nameplate and any accompanying documentation for specific connection instructions and safety precautions.
- Incorrect wiring can damage the motor or create electrical hazards.
- If switching between star and delta configurations is required, ensure that the motor is designed for such operation and that appropriate switching equipment is used.
Remember, safety is paramount when working with electrical installations. If you’re unsure about any aspect of motor connections, consult a qualified electrician.
Relative speed
In terms of relative speed, both star and delta connections will result in the same speed when the motor is operating under normal, full-load conditions. The speed of an induction motor is primarily determined by the frequency of the power supply and the number of poles in the motor winding.
However, there can be a slight difference in speed during the starting phase:
- Star Connection: During startup, the star connection provides lower starting current and torque. This might result in a slightly slower acceleration compared to a delta connection.
- Delta Connection: With its higher starting current and torque, the delta connection might lead to a slightly faster initial acceleration.
Once the motor reaches its operating speed and stabilizes under load, the difference in speed between the two connections becomes negligible.
Key Takeaway:
- The primary difference between star and delta connections lies in their current and torque characteristics, not their operating speed under normal conditions.
Permanent Delta mode
To run a 440 Volt, 3-phase motor with six terminal connections in permanent delta mode, you need to make the following connections within the terminal box:
- U1 to W2
- V1 to U2
- W1 to V2
This creates the delta configuration, where the end of each winding is connected to the start of the next, forming a closed loop.
Then, connect the three-phase power supply to the junctions (corners) of the delta:
- L1 to the junction of U1 and W2
- L2 to the junction of U2 and V1
- L3 to the junction of V2 and W1
Remember:
- Always double-check the motor’s nameplate and any accompanying documentation to ensure you have the correct voltage and connection information.
- If the motor is not designed for delta-only operation, forcing it to run in this mode can lead to overheating and damage.
- Ensure proper safety precautions are taken when working with electrical connections. If unsure, consult a qualified electrician.
By making these connections, the motor will always start and run in delta mode, providing higher starting torque and current compared to a star connection.