Motors and Motor Controls Flashcards
7 cards from real IEC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Motors and Motor Controls flashcards as text
A motor nameplate shows a service factor of 1.15. What does this mean?
Answer: The motor can operate continuously at 115% of its rated load
A service factor of 1.15 means the motor can operate continuously at 115% of its nameplate horsepower without damaging insulation.
Which type of motor starter uses reduced voltage to limit inrush current during starting?
Answer: Autotransformer starter
An autotransformer starter reduces starting voltage via a transformer, which significantly reduces inrush current during motor startup.
What is the purpose of a motor's overload relay?
Answer: To protect the motor from sustained overcurrent due to overloading
Overload relays protect motors from sustained overcurrents caused by mechanical overloads, which generate excess heat and can damage windings.
A three-phase motor is wired for wye (Y) connection. Compared to a delta connection, the phase voltage is:
Answer: Lower than the line voltage by a factor of √3
In a wye connection, phase voltage equals line voltage divided by √3 (approximately 0.577 × line voltage).
Which NEC article primarily governs the installation of motors, motor circuits, and controllers?
Answer: Article 430
NEC Article 430 covers motors, motor circuits, and controllers including overcurrent protection and disconnecting means requirements.
What type of enclosure is rated NEMA 4 and is suitable for outdoor use?
Answer: Watertight and provides protection against rain, splashing, and hose-directed water
NEMA 4 enclosures are watertight and dusttight, protecting against windblown dust, rain, sleet, and hose-directed water.
When sizing branch circuit conductors for a single motor, the NEC requires the conductors to be rated at least:
Answer: 125% of the motor's full-load current
Per NEC 430.22, branch circuit conductors supplying a single motor must have an ampacity of at least 125% of the motor's full-load current rating.