Why industrial motors etc need 3 phase power?

In summary, industrial motors require 3 phase power because they serve a different function than traction motors in high-speed trains. While industrial motors have a simpler design and operate at a constant speed, traction motors require a variable frequency drive to vary their speed. This is due to the expensive electronics supporting the motors in trains. Additionally, industrial motors use a Y and Delta configuration to limit current demand and operate at different speeds, while traction motors use a three-phase, variable frequency drive to adjust their speed for optimal performance.
  • #1
Charles123
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Why industrial motors etc need 3 phase power and something like a TGV (high-speed train) only needs 1 phase (25 kV AC railway electrification), and yet its capable of such performance?
 
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  • #2
I don't know much about the train, but I suspect it has a bucket-load of expensive electronics supporting it's motors. Industrial motors that hard start and go one speed are serving a different function than traction motors, which must vary their speed. In all likelihood, your train has a three phase, variable frequency drive on the traction motors.

Typical industrial motors are minimalistic. The three phases are oreiented such that a constant rotating magnetic vector spins around at some ratio of the line frequency (i.e 1:1 - 3600RPM, 1:2 - 1800 RPM, 1:4 - 900 RPM).
Typically, they'll start with some means of limiting the current demand (i.e operating in a Y configuration), and then as they speed up, they switch to a full power configuration (Delta).
 

FAQ: Why industrial motors etc need 3 phase power?

1. Why do industrial motors require 3 phase power?

The main reason for this is efficiency. Three phase power allows for a more even distribution of power, resulting in smoother operation and less energy loss. Industrial motors require a significant amount of power to operate, and the use of 3 phase power helps to meet this demand more efficiently.

2. How does 3 phase power differ from single phase power?

Single phase power uses only one power conductor and one neutral conductor, whereas 3 phase power uses three power conductors and one neutral conductor. This allows for a more balanced distribution of power and higher voltage levels, making it more suitable for industrial applications.

3. Can a 3 phase motor be connected to a single phase power supply?

No, a 3 phase motor cannot be connected to a single phase power supply. The motor is designed to run on 3 phase power and connecting it to a single phase supply would result in improper operation and potential damage to the motor.

4. What are the advantages of using 3 phase power for industrial motors?

In addition to efficiency, 3 phase power also provides more power and torque to industrial motors, making them more suitable for heavy duty applications. It also allows for smaller and more compact motors, reducing the overall size and cost of the equipment.

5. Is 3 phase power only used for industrial applications?

No, 3 phase power can also be used for other applications such as large commercial buildings, data centers, and even residential areas. However, it is most commonly used in industrial settings due to the high power demands and efficiency benefits it provides.

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