What is an Induction Motor?

What is an Induction Motor?

Induction motor definition

An induction motor is a type of AC motor in which torque is generated from the rotating magnetic field of the stator to the rotor by electromagnetic induction.

Working principle

The working principle of the induction motor is that the alternating current induces a magnetic field in the stator, and then induces a current in the rotor, generating torque and making the rotor rotate.

Type of induction motor

Type of single-phase induction motor

• Split phase induction motor

• Capacitor start induction motor

• Capacitor start and capacitor run induction motor

• Shaded pole induction motor

Type of three-phase induction motor

• Squirrel cage induction motor

• Slip ring induction motor

Self-starting characteristic

Three-phase induction motors are self-starting because the phase difference between three single-phase lines creates a rotating magnetic field, and single-phase motors often require capacitors to start.

Speed control and efficiency

Induction motors offer high efficiency through variable speed control options, making them suitable for a variety of industrial applications, although their speed will vary with the load.