Title :
Selection of copper versus aluminum rotors for induction motors
Author :
Finley, William R. ; Hodowanec, Mark M.
Author_Institution :
Ind. Products Div., Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc., Norwood, MA, USA
Abstract :
On squirrel-cage induction motors, there is an important choice between utilizing a lower cost die-cast or fabricated aluminum rotor versus the more expensive copper bar rotor. Utilizing the wrong rotor construction for the application can either increase costs unnecessarily or lead to catastrophic failure. This paper provides the background necessary to assist in making the proper choice. The fundamentals of rotor construction and basic information on how the induction motor works are discussed. Additionally, the effects of various materials and types of rotor construction on motor performance are analyzed
Keywords :
aluminium; copper; reliability; rotors; squirrel cage motors; Al; Cu; application; catastrophic failure; copper bar rotor; costs; die-cast aluminum rotor; fabricated aluminum rotor; materials effects; rotor construction; rotor selection; selection guidelines; squirrel-cage induction motors; Aluminum; Building materials; Chemical industry; Copper; Costs; Induction motors; Performance analysis; Petroleum; Power generation economics; Rotors;
Journal_Title :
Industry Applications, IEEE Transactions on
