#MotorTalkMonday – NEMA vs. IEC
We hear a lot about NEMA and IEC, but what exactly are the differences in the two standards of motors?
Although they are different physically, the fundamental operation of both is the same. When talking about the different motor standards, it’s like learning a different language but saying the same thing.
Let’s highlight some of the differences between the two motors:
NEMA motors:
• Most common in North America
• Many application – specific designs (designed more for the application)
• Side – mounted box
• Flying leads in the main box
• NEMA defines frame sizes (i.e. 184T is the same across manufacturers)
IEC motors:
• Acceptable worldwide
• Application – specific designs are available (designed for the OEM equipment)
• Top – mounted box
• Terminal posts in main box
• IEC doesn’t define frame sizes (i.e. 90 frame to one manufacturer might be different to another)
Interested in learning more and deciding which motor might be best for your application? Give us a call at (918)366-9320 or email us at us-tulsasalessupport@abb.com today! We’d be happy to help figure out which motor would fit your specific needs.
