Load Characteristics

There are four basic types of loads:

Variable torque

Constant torque

Constant horsepower

Cyclic loads

The most common type of load has variable torque characteristics, in which horsepower and
torque vary with respect to speed. For example, in centrifugal pumps and fans, torque
varies according to the square of speed.

In a constant-torque load, the torque is independent of speed. Common applications

include conveyor systems, hoists, and cranes. For example, conveying a 500-pound load
along an assembly line requires the same amount of torque whether it is moving at a
constant speed of 5 feet per minute or 10 feet per minute. Although horsepower varies
linearly with respect to speed, torque is constant.

In other types of equipment that require a constant torquesuch as centrifugal air

compressors, positive displacement pumps, and positive displacement blowers the
relationship between flow and power is linear. This means that energy savings due to
reduced flow operation are reduced when compared to variable torque pumps and fans.
Some energy-saving measures, such as using ASDs, can also save energy with these other
systems. However, significant energy savings occur only in certain applications, such as
rotary-screw compressors with variable loads. In addition, many common design and
operating practices tend to reduce system efficiencies, particularly with respect to
compressed air systems.

In a constant horsepower load, the torque increases with decreasing speed and vice versa. A
good example of this type of load is a winding machine in which the torque increases as the
roll thickness builds up and the rotational speed slows down. Machine tools such as lathes
and cutting machines also display these operating characteristics.

A cyclic load is one in which the torque changes significantly within a cycle or over a series of
cycles. An example is an oil well pump; in this application, the downstroke of the pump
piston requires much less force than the upstroke. Also, some air compressors and
refrigeration system compressors have cyclic load characteristics; they tend to shut down
and start up in response to system pressures.

Load inertia refers to the resistance of the load to changes in speed. Applications that have
high load inertia tend to require high starting torques. Load inertia is commonly referred to
by the term Wk2 . Examples of loads with high inertia are large fans and machines with
flywheels, such as punch presses. The ratio of load inertia to motor torque has a strong
effect on the responsiveness of the motor system to changes in the load.