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How Important is Insulation in Electric Motors?

CATEGORY : Electric Motors

Posted by John on 12 Jan, 2012

Electric motors need to be insulated well to prevent overheating and the break down of various parts. Many machine repairs involve the use of an insulating tape to protect the wiring from friction and excess heat. Materials such as glass cloth tape and polyester tape can be used to hold down wires and to keep the whole machine cool, even when it is performing at its peak.

Insulation is important in preventing stray currents in electric motors. Stray currents can be caused by asymmetry in a magnetic circuit, uninsulated power cables and by the use of outdated parts, such as frequency converters, that do not conform to the modern electric motor configuration.

There are various different levels of insulation required in any standard machine. Many electric machines include wires that are half insulated, so that there is a bare and a covered side to the wire. The insulation turns the wire into a switch, because when the insulated half touches the armature supports no current can flow through, but when the bare half touches the supports, the current flows and the motor is turned on.

Proper insulation can protect a machine from degradation and extend its working life. You can tell if your electric motor is well insulated by noting the level of noise and vibration it produces when working under stress. After some time, continued vibration will cause inevitable damage to the separate outer parts, resulting in cracked insulation and loose windings. It is important to regularly test and repair your insulation to ensure that normal vibration cannot harm your machinery further.