This week’s hashtag#MotorTalkMonday topic – the differences between NEMA and IEC.
Here in the USA, we’re more familiar with NEMA, but that doesn’t mean we should fear IEC.
Fundamental operation is the same with NEMA and IEC (turning a shaft, creating torque). It’s just how we talk about the differences, it’s like learning a different language but saying the same thing.
EU manufacturing is more guideline-driven where NEMA is very strict that a certain speed, HP = certain frame (i.e. 5HP, 4P, 184T). EU looks more at what motors are going to fit their machines and how they can optimize the design (so they might put more HP into a smaller frame).
Check out the link in the comments to see some commonly used NEMA motor terms and the corresponding IEC term. While both NEMA and IEC are referencing the same concepts, there are differences in terminology. Knowing these words, and what they mean, may assist when deciphering data!
