Working Principle of Synchronous Motor
The working of a synchronous motor is based on the principle of synchronism. Synchronous motors consist of a stationary part called the stator. The stator contains wire coils, supplied with an alternating current(AC) supply, and produces a rotating magnetic field.
"In synchronous motors, the interaction of magnetic fields ensures rotation stays in perfect rhythm with the alternating current, a testament to precision engineering."
Synchronous motors are a remarkable innovation in electrical engineering, as they combine the elements of both induction motors and direct current motors to deliver exceptional performance and versatility. In this blog, we will uncover the workings principle of synchronous motors, also shedding light on how they synchronize their rotation with the frequency of the alternating current (AC) power supply. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, read this blog to demystify the working of synchronous motor and appreciate their vital role in powering various applications in the world!
What is a Synchronous Motor?
A Synchronous motor is an electric motor that combines the features of both induction motors and direct current motors. Its name originates from its unique design including elements of both induction and direct current motors to achieve performance and versatility in operation.
Typically, synchronous motors operate at a constant speed, by efficiently synchronizing with the frequency of the alternating current power supply. This constant speed regulation enables precise control over the rotational speed and makes them ideal for various applications where consistent movements are required.
Synchronous motors offer high efficiency and power factor correction capabilities. They actively adjust the power factor optimising the energy consumption and reducing power loss. This feature makes synchronous motors ideal for applications where energy utilization is important. Moreover, synchronous motors also offer excellent torque and starting performance. They deliver high torque at low speed to ensure smooth operation across a wide range of applications.
Common types of synchronous motors include permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM), synchronous reluctance motors (SynRM), and 3-phase synchronous motors each offering unique advantages for different applications. These motors come in various sizes and diameters to cater to different torque and power requirements. These motors can be customized to meet specific torque, speed, and size requirements of diverse applications across various industries.
Synchronous motors are used in a wide range of industrial and commercial applications such as industrial machinery, power generation plants, pumps, textile machines, and renewable energy systems where precise control and energy efficiency are required.
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Working of Synchronous Motors
The working of a synchronous motor is based on the principle of synchronism. In this principle, the rotation of the rotor is synchronized with the frequency of the alternating current (AC) supply. Similar to AC motors, synchronous motors also consist of a stationary part called the stator. The stator contains wire coils, supplied with alternating current (AC) supply. When these coils are energised with an AC supply, it produces a rotating magnetic field. This rotating magnetic field helps the rotor to rotate.
The rotor is the rotating part of the motor. It contains either electromagnets or permanent magnets arranged in specific patterns. These magnets are then arranged with a rotating magnetic field produced by the stator. As a result of this interaction, the rotor starts to rotate. The most important feature of synchronous motors is their ability to maintain constant speed. They have the ability to synchronize the rotation of the rotor with the frequency of AC supply.
When the rotor rotates with the magnetic field produced by the stator, an electromotive force (EMF) is induced in rotor windings. This EMF creates a magnetic field in the rotor, which aligns itself with the magnetic field of the stator. As a result, the rotor rotates at the same speed as the rotating magnetic field. The speed of synchronous motors is inherently related to the frequency of the AC power supply. The standard frequency of the synchronous motor is 50Hz or 60Hz.
Mechtex has a 110V Synchronous motor and a 230V Synchronous Motor that operates at 50Hz or 60Hz frequency. These synchronous motors are used in various industrial machinery, pumps, compressors, wind turbines, and daily live applications.
However, precise speed control is achieved by adjusting the frequency of AC supply. By increasing or decreasing, the frequency of supply the motor speed can be adjusted to meet the requirements of specific applications.
In some synchronous motors, an additional DC supply is required for rotor winding to create the magnetic field produced for synchronization. This process is known as excitation. It helps synchronous motors to maintain their synchronization with the AC power supply. However synchronous motors are not self-starting. Unlike other AC motors, which can start and operate without any external source, synchronous motors require an external source for initial rotation to synchronize with the magnetic field produced by the stator. Once synchronous motors are synchronized, they operate efficiently.
However synchronous motors are not self-starting. Unlike other AC motors, which can start and operate without any external source, synchronous motors require an external source for initial rotation to synchronize with the magnetic field produced by the stator. Once synchronous motors are synchronized, they operate efficiently.
To know more why synchronous motors are not self-starting. Read our blog https://mechtex.com/blog/why-synchronous-motor-is-not-self-starting
