How Does An AC Electric Motor Work?

An AC electric motor is a form of asynchronous motor which converts electrical current into mechanical energy. It mainly comprises a shaft, rotor and stator, along with some auxiliary parts like housing, bearings, and a connection box. In this blog, Bauer GMC, a reputed distributor of gear motors and AC gear motors in Mississauga, shares the detailed working mechanism of an AC electric motor.

What Is The Basic Working Mechanism Of An AC Electric Motor?

To understand the basic mechanism of an AC electric motor, it is important to first understand its working principle. 

Fundamental Working Theory

• As the name suggests, an AC electric motor works on alternating current. A main feature of alternating current is that it reverses polarity periodically, that is, going from positive to negative, and vice versa.
• In this context, frequency is the number of times the current changes polarity per second. For instance, a frequency of 80 Hz means the current changes polarity 80 times per second.
• An AC motor uses this alternating current and turns it into mechanical energy by means of electromagnetic induction. 

Working Mechanism Of An AC Electric Motor

• The stator comprises several coils. When current passes through these coils, it turns into an electromagnet and creates a magnetic field as per electromagnetic induction.
• The current passes through the coils, and they are charged in pairs with alternating frequency. Thus, the magnetic field covers the stator.
• The rotor is situated within the stator. As the magnetic field covers the stator, it also acts on the rotor and creates an electrical current in the rotor.
• The current of the rotor, in turn, creates its own magnetic field. The magnetic fields of the stator and the rotor repel each other. This makes the rotor spin and creates sufficient mechanical energy to perform the required task.

Conclusion

The AC electric motor works on the basic principle of electromagnetic induction, which uses current to create a magnetic field and vice versa. The goal is to generate enough force to turn the rotors of the AC motor.

Looking for gear motors, AC electric motors, AC gearmotors, and other related equipment? Look no further than Bauer GMC. With more than 50+ years of experience, we have emerged as one of the leading distributors of gear motors and related products in Mississauga, Ontario. Our products are designed to cater to a wide variety of industries such as steel production, forestry, agriculture, mining, and more. Contact us at 905-814-5152 today to book a consultation.

FAQs

What are some common applications of AC electric motors?

The main uses of AC electric motors lie in heavy-duty industrial machinery, pumps, compressors and other miscellaneous equipment.

What is the difference between AC and DC electric motors? 

The major difference lies in the power source. AC electric motors use alternating current, whereas DC motors use direct current.

What is an asynchronous motor?

Any electric motor whose speed is different from or lower than its rotating magnetic field is defined as an asynchronous motor.