RPM Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines the rotational speed (RPM) of an AC induction motor based on the electrical frequency and number of poles.
Purpose: It helps engineers, technicians, and electricians understand and predict motor performance characteristics.
The formula used is:
Where:
Explanation: The 120 factor converts from Hz to minutes (60 seconds × 2 poles per cycle). The speed is inversely proportional to the number of poles.
Details: Knowing a motor's RPM is crucial for proper equipment selection, speed matching, and performance analysis in industrial applications.
Tips: Enter the electrical frequency (typically 50 or 60 Hz) and the number of poles (even number, usually between 2-12). All values must be > 0.
Q1: Why is the number of poles always even?
A: AC motors require pairs of north and south magnetic poles, so the count must be even.
Q2: What's a typical frequency value?
A: 50 Hz in most countries, 60 Hz in North America and some other regions.
Q3: Does this calculate synchronous or actual RPM?
A: This gives synchronous speed. Actual RPM is slightly less due to slip (typically 2-5% less).
Q4: How does voltage affect RPM?
A: Voltage doesn't affect synchronous speed, but insufficient voltage may prevent reaching full speed.
Q5: What's the RPM for a 4-pole motor at 60Hz?
A: 1800 RPM (synchronous speed), with actual speed around 1725-1750 RPM.