Motor Temperature Ratings
A frequently misunderstood subject related to electric motors is insulation class and temperature ratings. This paper tries to describe, in basic terms, the temperature relationships that are meaningful in standard AC induction motors. Some of the same information can be applied to DC motors but DC motors are more specialized and some of the ratings are slightly different. Perhaps the best way to start is to define the commonly used terms.
Motor surface temperatures
Motor surface temperature is frequently of concern.The motor surface temperature will never exceed the internal temperature of the motor. However, depending upon the design and cooling arrangements in the motor, motor surface temperature in modern motors can be high enough to be very uncomfortable to the touch. Surface temperatures of 75° to 95° C can be found on T frame motor designs. These temperatures do not necessarily indicate overload or impending motor failure.
Other factors
Insulation life is affected by many factors aside from temperature.Moisture, chemicals, oil, vibration, fungus growth, abrasive particles, and mechanical abrasion created by frequent starts, all work to shorten insulation life. On some applications if the operating environment and motor load conditions can be properly defined, suitable means of winding protection can be provided to obtain reasonable motor life in spite of external disturbing factors.
Old and current standards
U frame 184 through 445U frames, were designed based on using Class A insulation. Temperature rise was not precisely defined by the resistance method.Temperature rise by thermometer for Class A, open drip proof motors was 40° C. This was generally thought to be equivalent to approximately 50° C by resistance. U frame motors were the industry standard from 1954 to 1965 and are still preferred in some industries and plants. T frame, 143T through 449T motors are generally designed based on using Class B insulation with temperature rises by resistance of approximately 80° C. Production of T frame motors started in the mid-sixties and they continue to be the industry standard at this time.
Summary
A key ingredient in motor life is the insulation system used in the motor.Aside from vibration, moisture, chemicals, and other non-temperature related life-shortening items, the key to insulation and motor life is the maximum temperature that the insulation system experiences and the temperature capabilities of the system components. Table 1 shows the temperature ratings, temperature rise allowances and hot spot allowances for various enclosures and service factors of standard motors. Table 2 shows a listing of temperature related life-shortening factors along with symptoms and cures. You may find this table useful.
Problems symptoms cures
Low VoltageOverload Tripping High current Short motor lifeCorrect power supply or match motor to actual power supply voltage rating. High VoltageOverload Tripping High current Short motor lifeCorrect power supply or match motor to actual power supply voltage rating. Unbalanced VoltageUnbalanced phase currents Overload trippingDetermine why voltages are unbalanced and correct. OverloadOverload Tripping High current Short motor lifeDetermine reason for overload. Increase motor size or decrease load speed.High Ambient TemperaturesShort motor life Rewind motor to higher class of insulation.
Oversize motor to reduce temperature rise. Ventilate area to reduce ambient temperature. Blocked VentilationShort motor life Runs hot Amperage o. k. Clean lint and debris from air passageways or use proper motor enclosure for application. Frequent StartsShort motor life. Use a reduced voltage starting method. Upgrade class of insulation. High Inertia LoadsShort motor life Overload tripping during startingOversize motor frame. Use higher class of insulation. Use a reduced voltage starting method. Bearing lubrication must also be matched to high operating temperature. Reduced voltage starting method and motor characteristics must be matched to the load requirement.
