Understanding The Difference
While induction motors are found in water pumps, various kitchen appliances, air conditioners, automobiles, industrial machinery such as compressors, and others, synchronous motors are used in applications requiring constant and precise speed. There are also different types of synchronous motors.
Both motors are prominent in the construction industry for several applications. With that said, if you aren’t certain if you need a synchronous motor or an induction motor, we delve into the differences between these two motors in this article.
The Constructional Differences
When it comes to the synchronous motor, the stator consists of axial slots that consist of stator winding components for a particular number of poles. More often than not, a salient pole rotor is used for rotor winding. The rotor winding is fed by a DC power source via slip rings. Alternatively, a rotor with permanent magnets can also be used.
On the other hand, an induction motor also uses similar stator winding principles. However, a wound rotor or squirrel cage rotor can be used for an induction motor. When a squirrel cage rotor is used, the rotor bars are short-circuited with end rings permanently. In the case of wound rotors, slip rings are not required either as windings are also permanently short-circuited.
Working Differences
When fed with a three-phase supply, the stator poles of a synchronous motor will run at a speed that is equal to the synchronous speed. A DC power source must feed the rotor. When starting, the rotor is rotated at speed close to the synchronous speed, which magnetically couples the rotating stator poles. As a result, the rotor inevitably rotates at a synchronous speed.
But when it comes to the induction motor, a rotating magnetic field is produced when the stator is fed with a two or three-phase AC supply power source. The relative speed difference between the rotor and the stators rotating magnetic field will induce a current in the conductors of the rotor.
Other Differences
Synchronous motors need an additional power source to power rotor winding, while induction motors do not require any other power source.
Furthermore, synchronous motors require slip rings and brushes, while induction motors don’t. However, synchronous motors are the more efficient option, although they are typically more pricey. Even though induction motors are more budget-friendly, it’s never best to make a decision based on this factor alone.
More often than not, synchronous motors are a suitable option for various applications both around the home and in construction and other industries. These motors are used in analogue electric clocks, timers, and so much more. Due to their constant precision capabilities, they are often an excellent choice despite the higher price.
Whether you need synchronous motors, induction motors, or a mix of both for your construction business, it is crucial to know the advantages and disadvantages of each motor. Functioning in the construction industry and achieving success is relatively complex, and you will need to scale your business before you start investing in motors and other essentials you need. Scaling your business is the best way to set the stage for your success.
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