Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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EXPERIMENT # 1
Familiarization with the AC Induction Motor Trainer

I. INTRODUCTION
Motor trainers are wildly used in the enhancement of practical skills of students
around the world. There are many kinds of motor trainers including DC or AC motor
trainers. AC motor trainers vary in different types mostly dependent on the kind of AC
motor used in the trainer. The type of motor used in this trainer is a single phase capacitor
start induction motor. Motors convert electrical energy to mechanical energy. Single
phase induction motors apply the law of electromagnetic induction. Electromagnetic
induction is the creation of an electric field by a time-varying magnetic field. In cases of
motor it uses electric field to produce a time-varying magnetic field which causes the
rotation of the motor. The varying magnetic field is produced by the alternating current
supply through the stator and rotor windings of an induction motor. The stator and rotor
are the main parts of an induction motor. The stator is the stationary part and the rotor is
the rotating part of an induction motor. The stator windings acts as electromagnets that
operates as poles of the motor. The rotor windings will react with the magnetic field of
the stator that will cause the motor to rotate. Note that the windings of the rotor will also
act as electromagnets. In simplification of its operation like poles repel and opposite
poles attract, which causes the mechanical rotation.
Single-phase induction motors have no self-starting torque. Torque is the force
that causes the object to rotate. This means that a single phase induction motor will start
unless it is manually started, or a starting method is added into it. In the case of single
phase capacitor start motor it uses a capacitor to produce a starting torque for the motor.
However, the capacitor cannot stay long in the circuit that is why a centrifugal switch is
used to cut it out of the circuit.
Single phase induction motors should be protected by overloads. Overload causes
the motor to overheat and it can cause the internal windings of the motor to burn. Headed
to protect the motor from overload basic protection should always be connected to the
circuit of the motor.

Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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II.OBJECTIVES
At the end of this activity, the students are expected to:
1. Familiarize with the AC induction motor trainer.
2. Learn the basic functions of the different modules of the AC motor trainer.
3. Familiarize with the construction of single phase induction motor.
4. Learn the principle of operation of a single phase induction motor.
5. Connect basic protection and carry out the necessary tests to determine the
parameters of the motor.
III.MATERIALS
1 AC induction motor trainer
1 Tachometer
1 Multimeter
Connecting Wires
IV.PROCEDURES
1. Observe and memorize the different parts of the AC motor trainer shown in figure1.

Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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Figure 1 AC Induction Motor Modules

2. Notice that every module has distinct functions, as we proceed in this experiment
observe every modules functions, and explain it on the end of the experiment.
3. Observe and memorize the main parts of the single phase induction motor shown in
figure 2.

Stator

Rotor

Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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Figure 2 Basic Motor Parts

4. Notice the stator windings and define the number of poles of the stator.
5. Establish the motor connection as shown in circuit diagram figure 3.

Figure 3 Basic Motor Connection

6. Connect the fuse with holder and breaker for the basic protection as shown in circuit
diagram figure 4.

Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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Figure 4 Motor Basic Protection

7. Make sure that the connections are in correct placement.
8. Connect the meters as shown in the connection in circuit diagram figure 5, with the
basic protection.

Figure 5 Meter Connection

9. Apply the rated voltage on the stator side and notice the centrifugal switch action, with
this, record the in rush current or (LRC) Lock Rotor Current.
10. Once the motor reaches its steady state measure the input voltage, input current and
speed of the motor.
11. Compute for the synchronous speed of the motor.
12. Record the data and observe its characteristics.

Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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V.RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

LRC
(A)

Table 1 Motor Running Parameters

Volts (V) Ampere (A)
Synchronous
Speed (rpm)

Actual Speed
(rpm)

VI.CONCLUSION

VII.QUESTIONS
1. Describe the function and principle of the basic parts of the motor.
2. Compare circuit breaker from fuse in terms of the motor basic protection.
3. As we can see in figure. 2 explain the connection and the use of capacitor for
the motor.
4. Compute for the synchronous speed using the equation above and compare the
result with its actual speed.
5. State the function of centrifugal switch on the motor.
REFERENCES
Callahan, R. Single Phase Induction Motor Characteristic.Retrieved August 25, 2012
from

Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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http://www.ehow.com/list_6326357_single-phase-induction-motor
characteristics.html
Lawrence, R. Principles of Alternating-Current Machinery, McGraw-Hill Book
Company, Inc., 2007
Petruzella, F. Electric Motors and Control Systems International Edition, The McGrawHill Companies, Inc., 2010.
EXPERIMENT # 2
Pre-determination of Performance Characteristics of an Induction Motor

I.INTRODUCTION
A single phase induction motor or (SPIM) consists of stator, rotor and other
associated parts. In the rotor of a single phase winding is provided. The windings of a
single phase motor are displaced in space by 120.A single phase current is fed to the
windings so that a resultant rotating magnetic flux is generated. The rotor starts rotating
due to the induction effect produced due to the relative velocity between the rotor
winding and the rotating flux.
Single-phase capacitors motors are commonly used as a drive for fans, pumps and
compressors. Generally, they are induction machines of the symmetrical rotor cage and
non-symmetrical two stator windings (the main winding and auxiliary winding with
starting or running capacitor) supplied with the same sinusoidal voltage source. In real
applications, various kinds of loads exist. The motor will operate in a steady state at a
fixed speed. The response of the motor to any disturbance gives an idea about the
stability of the motor load system. This concept helps in quick evaluation in the selection
of a motor in driving a particular load.
II.OBJECTIVES
At the end of this activity, the students are expected to:
1. Determine the performance characteristic of a given single phase capacitor start
induction motor by conducting no-load test.
2. Distinguish the difference between no-load test and load test.
III.MATERIALS
1 AC induction motor trainer
1 Multimeter

Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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1 Tachometer
Connecting Wires
IV.PROCEDURES
1. Connect the circuit as shown in figure no.1 with the basic protection.
2. Make sure that the shaft of the motor is not loaded before you start the motor.
3. Switch on the AC supply (220V).

Figure 1 Single Phase Induction Motor with Basic Protection

4. Measure the parameters (LRC, ampere, voltage and speed) of the motor as shown
in figure no.2 and record your data. LRC- Locked Rotor Current or in rush
current.

Figure 2 Single Phase Induction Motor at No Load

5. Using the same circuit load the motor shaft with a pan belt
6. Install the roller and set it on the middle position as shown in figure no.3.

Figure 3 Load Test on SPIM with Roller Half-way Adjusted

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7. Vary the load by adjusting the rollers position to the maximum level, shown in
figure no.4.

Figure 4 Load Test on SPIM with Roller at Maximum Position

8. Measure and record the parameters for procedure 6 to 7.
9. Graph current vs. speed and compare the results.
V.RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Table 1 Motor Loading Parameter
Volts (v)

LRC (a)

Ampere (a)

Actual
Speed
(rpm)

Synchronous
Speed(rpm)

No load
Load 1
Load 2

VI.CONCLUSION

VII.QUESTIONS
1. In conducting no load test observe the current, is there any changes?
2. Describe the performance characteristic of the induction motor with load
variation.

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3. Does installing pan belt into the brake drum and motor shaft affects the motor
loading? Why?
4. What happened after installing the roller in the pan belt? Explain.
5. Does adjusting the roller deals with the load system of the motor?
6. Explain the relationship of speed vs. current at no load and full load.
REFERENCES
Lawrence, R. Principles of Alternating-Current Machinery, McGraw-Hill Book
Company, Inc., 2007
Petruzella, F. Electric Motors and Control Systems International Edition, The McGrawHill Companies, Inc., 2010.
Weinberger, B. (2010, November 18) Induction Motor Test Performance. Retrieved
January 12, 2013 from http://www.jason-fox.com/ELEC586-Polyphase-Motor.pdf
EXPERIMENT # 3
Starting and Running Characteristic
I.INTRODUCTION
Capacitor start motor is a modified split-phase motor with a capacitor in series
with the start winding to provide a start boost. Like the split-phase motor, the capacitor
start motor also has a centrifugal switch which disconnects the start winding and the
capacitor when the motor reaches about 75% of the rated speed.
Capacitor start-run motor has a start type capacitor in series with the auxiliary
winding like the capacitor start motor for high starting torque. Like a permanent split
capacitor or capacitor run motor, it also has a run type capacitor that is in series with the
auxiliary winding after the start capacitor is switched out of the circuit. This allows high
overload torque.
II.OBJECTIVES
At the end of this activity, the students are expected to:
1. Examine the construction of the capacitor start and capacitor start-run motor.
2. Compare the starting and running characteristics of a capacitor-type induction
motor.
III.MATERIALS
1 AC induction motor trainer

Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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1 Multimeter
1 Tachometer
Connecting Wires
IV.PROCEDURES
1. Connect the circuit of the capacitor-start motor as shown in Fig. 1.

Figure 1 Single Phase Capacitor-start Induction Motor Connection

2. Make sure that the basic protection is connected before any motor operation, see
figure 2.

Figure 2 Single Phase Capacitor-start Induction Motor with Basic Protection

3. Switch on the AC supply (220V).
4. Using the Ammeter, Voltmeter and Tachometer as shown in figure 2, measure the
parameters of the motor at no load and at maximum load (roller at maximum
position) then record it on table no.1.
5. Connect the circuit of the capacitor start-run motor as shown in figure 3.

Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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Figure 3 Single Phase Capacitor-run Induction Motor Connection

6. Using the same procedures stated above connect basic protection to the motor, see
Fig.4. Then record the data in table no.2.

Figure 4 Single Phase Capacitor-run Induction Motor with Basic Protection

7. Compare the results gathered.

V.RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Table 1 Capacitor Start Motor
Voltage(v)

LRC (a)

Ampere (a)

Actual Speed
(rpm)

NO LOAD
LOAD
Table 2 Capacitor Start-Run Motor
Voltage(v)
NO LOAD

LRC (a)

Ampere (a)

Actual Speed
(rpm)

Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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LOAD

VI.CONCLUSION

VII.QUESTIONS
1. What is the purpose of a capacitor that is connected in series with the auxiliary
winding?
2. What is the use of centrifugal switch in the circuit? Explain.
3. Compare start capacitor from run capacitor in terms of its operation.
4. What happens when the two capacitors namely start capacitor and run capacitors
are connected in parallel?
REFERENCES
Muljadi, E. Adjustable AC Capacitor for Single-Phase Induction Motor. Retrieved
August 26, 2012 from http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/login.jsp?tp=&arnumber=224
Siskind, C., Electrical Machines Direct and Alternating Current, The McGraw-Hill
Companies, Inc., 2005
EXPERIMENT # 4
Torque-Speed Relation
I.INTRODUCTION
One of the methods employed to provide the single-phase induction motor with a
starting torque is to add to its main winding an auxiliary winding capable of producing an
auxiliary flux out of phase with the flux generated by the main winding.

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The resultant magnetic flux contains a rotating component, which interacting with
the rotor, produces the desired starting torque. When the motor speed reaches a
predetermined percentage of the synchronous speed, a centrifugal switch or a relay opens
the auxiliary circuit. At rest, the circuit is closed again, automatically.
There is much information on a speed-torque curve to tell the user if the motor
will operate satisfactorily for the intended application. The speed-torque curve will allow
the user to determine if the motor has enough starting torque to overcome friction, to
accelerate the load to full running speed, and if it can handle the maximum overload
expected.
Tor que lb . ft=

Slip=

HP x 5250
rpm

Ns=

120 x frequency
no . of poles

NsN
x 100
Ns

Ns Synchronous speed (rpm)

N Actual speed (rpm)
II.OBJECTIVES
At the end of this activity, the students are expected to:
1. be able to determine the torque of an induction motor
2. graph the torque speed characteristic of an induction motor
III.MATERIALS
1 AC induction motor trainer
1 Multimeter
1 Tachometer
Connecting Wires
IV.PROCEDURES
1. Set the capacitor-start motor connection and meters with the basic protection as
shown in Figure no.1 and perform a no load test.

Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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Figure 1 Single Phase Capacitor-start Induction Motor with Basic Protection

2. Connect the pan belt with the brake drum and motor shaft.
3. Install the roller in the middle position as shown in figure no 2.

Figure 2 Load Test on SPIM with Roller Half-way Adjusted

4. Move the roller to the maximum position, shown in figure no.3.

Figure 3 Load Test on SPIM with Roller at Maximum Position

5. Measure the voltage, LRC, current, and speed of the motor.
6. Calculate the synchronous speed, percent slip and torque using the actual
measurements. Record your data.
7. Using the gathered data plot the results and produce a torque speed graph.

V.RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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Table 1 Torque Speed Parameters

Voltage(v)

LRC (a)

Ampere
(a)

Synchronous
Speed (rpm)

Actual
Speed
(rpm)

%
Slip

Torque(lb.ft)

No Load
Load 1
Load 2

VI.CONCLUSION

VII.QUESTIONS
1.
2.
3.
4.

What behavior of the motor current is noticeable during load variation?

Explain the relationship of torque and speed.
Differentiate synchronous from actual speed.
Observe the % slip and actual motor speeds behavior as the motor load is varied.

REFERENCES
Kennaugh, M. (2001, January 1), Measurement of induction motor characteristics,
Retrieved August 21, 2012, www.tomkennaugh.co.uk/cv/work/eleclab.pdf
Petruzella, F. Electric Motors and Control Systems International Edition, The McGrawHill Companies, Inc., 2010.
Yaskawa Electric America, (2006, October 1) Inc AR.MOTOR.01, Retrieved August 21,
2012, www.yaskawa.com/site/dmdrive.nsf/link2/MNEN.../AR.MOTOR.01.pdf

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EXPERIMENT # 5
Jog, Start, and Stop Motor Control

I.INTRODUCTION
Jogging is the momentary operation of a motor for the purpose of accomplishing
small movements of the driven machine. It is use for the frequent starting and stopping of
a motor for short period of time. It is the brief closure of a motor circuit to start a motor
from rest. Jog is use to align and space machine parts, to position a tool accurately, to
thread cloth paper, steel and controlled movements.
II.OBJECTIVES
At the end of this activity, the students are expected to:
1. Be familiar with the jog, start and stop operation use in controlling single phase
induction motor.
2. Assemble a start, stop, and jog control circuit with a transfer switch interlock.
3. Assemble a standard start and stop with double-contact jog control circuit.
4. Compare the effectiveness of the two different way motor control operation.
III.MATERIALS
1 AC induction motor trainer
1 Multimeter
Connecting Wires
IV.PROCEDURES
PART I
1. Connect the circuit as shown in figure 1.
2. Make sure that the push button and contactor are in the correct placement.
3. Turn on the circuit breaker.
4. Press the start button and observe the circuit operation.

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Figure 1 Latching Control Circuit

PART II
1.
2.
3.
4.

Connect the circuit as shown in figure 2.

Press the start button, and then operate the jog button several times.
Test if the jog button is operating.
Depress both the start and jog button, then examine if the motor will continue to
run.

Figure 2 Standard Stop, Start with Double-Contact Jog Control Circuit

PART III
1. Change the control circuit so that it corresponds to that shown in figure 3.
2. Close the disconnect switch and turn on the circuit breaker.
3. Set the selector switch to run position.
4. Press the start button then press the stop button. Observe the change in the
operation of the motor.
5. Set the selector switch to jog position.
6. Press the jog button and examine what will happen to the motor.
7. After 3 seconds depress the jog button and examine the change in the motor.
8. Again switch the selector switch to run position and start the motor.
9. With the motor running, set the selector switch to jog position.

Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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10. Monitor the changes that will happen to the motor.

11. Turn off the motor supply and open the disconnect switch.

Figure 3 Start, Stop with Selector Jog Control Circuit

V.RESULTS AND DISCUISSION
Explain the different control method used in this experiment.

VI.CONCLUSIONS

VII.QUESTIONS
1. What is the effect of latching contact to the start push button?
2. Can the motor be jogged with short and long periods?

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3. By setting the selector switch to run position while the motor is running, does the
motor stop?
4. Would you consider 3-way switch as an electrical interlock?
5. Using figure 2 as the control circuit, with the motor running does the stop button
have to be depressed before the motor can be jogged?
6. Does the motor continue to run after they are both release?
REFERENCES
Lawrence, R. Principles of Alternating-Current Machinery, McGraw-Hill Book
Company, Inc., 2007
Khupthad, T.LAB A 27, Jog, Start, Stop of AC Induction Motor, Retrieved August 26,
2012 from, autosat2.humber.ca/files/elec403/lab%20A27.pdf
Petruzella, F. Electric Motors and Control Systems International Edition, The McGrawHill Companies, Inc., 2010.
Zakaria, S. (2010, November 29). The Development of Control a Control Scheme for
Single phase Motor. Retrieved August 26, 2012 from
http://umpir.ump.edu.my/2103/1/Sumi_Murni_Zakaria_(_CD_5308_).pdf

Laboratory Experiment of Low-cost AC Induction Motor

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EXPERIMENT # 6
Reverse and Forward Operation

I.INTRODUCTION
Reversing the rotation of electric motors can be done easily with 3-phase motors.
This can be easily achieved by swapping the connection of any two motor leads. But 3phase motors are usually found and used for industrial purposes. The ones found and used
in our homes, from water pumps to electric fans, are single phase capacitor-start type
motors. Unlike 3-phase motors, reversing the rotation of single phase electric motors is
no easy task. Swapping any two motor leads will not result in the reversal of the motor
rotation. Analysis of the motor windings and connections are necessary before any
modification can be done to achieve the desired result. In order to achieve the forward
and reverse operation of the motor, addition of 3pole-double throw toggle switch in the
control circuit is necessary. The toggle switch is a manual switch that lets one manually
reverses the direction in which a motor is turning. The switch contacts are open & closed
manually by moving the switch from the off position to the forward or reverse position.
II.OBJECTIVES
At the end of this activity, the students are expected to:
1. Be familiar with the forward and reverse operation use in controlling single phase
induction motor.
2. Assemble a forward and reverse control circuit with the use of a 3 pole-double
throw toggle switch.
III.MATERIALS
1 AC induction motor trainer
1 Multimeter
Connecting Wires

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IV.PROCEDURES
PART I
1. Connect the circuit as shown in figure 1.
2. Examine the connection of main winding, auxiliary winding, centrifugal switch
and the capacitor. Make sure that the connections are in the correct placement.
3. Check if the ground terminal of each component panel is connected to the supply
ground.

Figure 1 Forward Motor Control

1. Set the toggle switch on. Examine the direction of the motor rotation.
2. Connect the circuit as shown in figure 2. Set the toggle switch to its opposite
position and examine the direction of rotation.

Figure 2 Reverse Motor Control

PART II
1. Connect the 3pole-double throw switch and contactor as refer to figure 3.
2. Then set the toggle switch to forward position.
3. Again examine the change in the direction of motor rotation.

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4. Set the toggle switch to the reverse position. Examine the direction of the motor
rotation.

Figure 3 Forward and Reverse Motor Control

V.RESULTS AND DISCUISSION
Explain the forward, reverse, and forward reverse operation.

VI.CONCLUSIONS

VII.QUESTIONS
1. Is it necessary to use a three pole double throw switch to achieve the forward
and reverse operation of the motor? Explain your answer.

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2. As the toggle switch allows a manual reversal of the direction of the motor, how
does the contactor affects the motor operation?
3. Why does reversing the rotation of a single AC motor is difficult rather than a
three phase AC motor?
REFERENCES
Lawrence, R. Principles of Alternating-Current Machinery, McGraw-Hill Book
Company, Inc., 2007
Ludlow, C. Electric Motor. Retrieved August 25, 2012 from
http://www.google.com.ph/url?notes
%2FLL241.doc&ei=bfkvUdr8GIafiAfg_IDABQ&usg=AFQjCNH5SB
Petruzella, F. Electric Motors and Control Systems International Edition, The McGrawHill Companies, Inc., 2010.
Siskind, C., Electrical Machines Direct and Alternating Current, The McGraw-Hill
Companies, Inc., 2005.
Zakaria, S. (2010, November 29). The Development of Control a Control Scheme for
Single phase Motor. Retrieved August 26, 2012 from
http://umpir.ump.edu.my/2103/1/Sumi_Murni_Zakaria_(_CD_5308_).pdf