Page 6 - Industrial Technology EXTRA - 10th August 2020
P. 6
POWER RESISTORS...
Getting in control: how power
resistors benefit motor control
From the electric fans and power tools in our homes, to crane control systems
and industrial machinery – motors can be found in mechanical applications of all
shapes and sizes. But what exactly keeps them turning? Here, Joshua Piccaver,
electrical design engineer at power resistor manufacturer Cressall Resistors,
explains why resistors are key to ensuring steady motor control
n electric motor converts electrical energy characteristics during their starting and run-up.
into rotary, kinetic energy in order to Without some form of control, the motor will take
power a diverse array of processes such very high currents and the switching may cause
Aas drives, fans, pumps or conveyor belts. voltage spikes that could damage equipment.
Each process requires a specific motor, with High currents risk overloading the supply that
specialised characteristics for each unique function. passes through the motor, while overvoltage can
Electric motors of all types share common damage the electrical insulation of the supply – or
August 2020 • INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY EXTRA! • p6
