Electric Motor Power offer a huge range of off-the-shelf and customised electric and DC motors to suit a wide array of applications. For your electric motor to provide optimum performance and longevity for your project there are several factors that require careful consideration, one of these is duty cycle.
Most of our customers, when choosing an electric motor for their project will already have established the speed, torque, and power load point they need their motor to deliver and the duty cycle of an electric motor can often be overlooked, in this process. Yet it plays a critical role in determining the performance and longevity of your motor and that is where we can help.
What is a duty cycle?
The duty cycle refers to the ratio of an electric motor's operating time to its total cycle time. It is the ratio of time a load or circuit is ON compared to the time the load or circuit is OFF. Simply put, it indicates how long a motor can run without overheating or sustaining damage.
A well-matched duty cycle for your project or application, ensures that the motor operates within its thermal limits, preventing excessive heat build-up that can lead to insulation degradation and reduced efficiency and performance.
What are the implications of not selecting the right duty cycle for your project?
Failing to select an electric motor with the right duty cycle for your application can result in premature motor failure, increased maintenance costs, and even safety hazards.
What’s the right duty cycle for my project?
When planning for your project or application, choosing the right motor to meet your needs is crucial.
The International Electrotechnical Commission identifies 8 duty cycle labels to outline a motor’s operating conditions grouped by continuous, short-term, or periodic cycles.
These duty cycles encompass the frequency and duration of a motor’s typical operations, which include starting, running with no or full load, electric braking, and resting.
Reviewing these operations helps determine the effect on your motor’s temperature which can be a good indication of whether your selected motor is suitable for your application.
So, when it comes time to selecting the right motor for your project, don’t forget to consider the duty cycle of the motor you are selecting to ensure your product will have optimal power, performance, and longevity.
If you require assistance or more information about one of our electric motor’s duty cycles and their suitability for your project, contact us and we will be happy to discuss your needs and advise you on the right electric motor for your application.