Electric Motor
Electric motors are the workhorses of modern technology, converting electrical energy into mechanical power through the fascinating interplay of magnetic fields and electric currents. Here's a breakdown of how they function and their key components, designed especially for web designers looking to understand the mechanics behind these essential devices:
Basic Principle: Electric motors harness the power of electromagnetism, where the movement of a conductor in a magnetic field generates a force, causing motion. This principle, known as the Lorentz force, is at the core of how electric motors operate.
Key Components:
- Stator: This stationary part creates a magnetic field using coils or windings wrapped around a ferromagnetic core.
- Rotor: The rotating part experiences the force from the magnetic field and can be either a permanent magnet or an electromagnet.
- Shaft: Connects the rotor to external loads or mechanical systems, transmitting the mechanical energy produced by the motor.
- Bearings: These support and facilitate the smooth rotation of the shaft within the motor housing.
- Enclosure: Protects internal components from environmental factors like dust, moisture, and debris, ensuring long-term durability and reliability.
Types of Electric Motors:
- DC Motors: Operate on direct current and are widely used in applications requiring variable speed control, such as electric vehicles and robotics.
- AC Motors: Run on alternating current and are commonly found in household appliances, HVAC systems, and industrial equipment.
- Induction Motors: These robust AC motors have a rotor induced by the stator's magnetic field, offering reliability and versatility.
- Synchronous Motors: Known for their precise speed control, these motors operate at a fixed speed determined by AC frequency.
- Brushless DC Motors (BLDC): Highly efficient and low maintenance, BLDC motors are favoured in electric vehicles and drones for their performance and reliability.
High Speed Synchronous Motors
swipe horizontally to read more
Ratings | Supply | Mounting |
---|---|---|
1,000 to 20,000 kW | 2000 to 13800 Volts | Horizontal |
4 to 8 Pole | 50 or 60 Hertz | Vertical |
Enclosures
- Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC)
- Totally Enclosed Water to Air Cooled (TEWAC)
- Open Drip Proof (ODP)
- NEMA WP-II

Low Speed Synchronous Motors
swipe horizontally to read more
Ratings | Supply | Mounting |
---|---|---|
3,000 to 20,000 kW | 2000 to 13800 Volts | Horizontal |
10 to 48 Pole | 50 or 60 Hertz | - |
Enclosures
- Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC)
- Totally Enclosed Water to Air Cooled (TEWAC)
- Open Drip Proof (ODP)
- NEMA WP-II

Squirrel Cage Motors
swipe horizontally to read more
Ratings | Supply | Mounting |
---|---|---|
75 to 20,000 kW | 1000 to 13800 Volts | Horizontal |
2 to 20 Pole (others available) | 50 or 60 Hertz | Vertical |
Enclosures
- Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC)
- Totally Enclosed Water to Air Cooled (TEWAC)
- Open Drip Proof (ODP)
- NEMA WP-II

Wound Rotor Induction Motors
swipe horizontally to read more
Ratings | Supply | Mounting |
---|---|---|
200 to 10,000 kW | 1000 to 13800 Volts | Horizontal |
4 to 12 Pole (Others Available) | 50 or 60 Hertz | Vertical |
Enclosures
- Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC)
- Totally Enclosed Water to Air Cooled (TEWAC)
- Open Drip Proof (ODP)
- NEMA WP-II
