#MotorTalkMonday – why proper motor sizing matters
Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to electric motors. It’s common to think that oversizing a motor is the safest choice. In reality, selecting a motor that is too large or too small can create its own problems.
An undersized motor can:
• Run at higher loads for extended periods
• Draw more current
• Operate at higher temperatures
• Experience increased electrical and mechanical stress
• Have a shorter service life
But oversizing a motor can also have downsides:
• Higher initial cost
• Lower efficiency when operating significantly below its rated load
• Potentially lower power factor
• Increased starting or inrush requirements
• Unnecessary capacity that the application may never use
The goal isn’t to select the biggest motor or the cheapest motor. The goal is to select the right motor for the actual application.
When sizing a motor, consider more than horsepower. Look at the load profile, starting requirements, operating speed, duty cycle, environment, voltage, VFD operation, and expected operating conditions.
The right motor selection can improve reliability, efficiency, and overall system performance.
If you need help sizing a motor for your application, give us a call. Our team of experts would be happy to help!
