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221 - Introduction to Agricultural Mechanics

8795 Lesson Overview

Selecting, Operating & Maintaining Electric Motors
Using electric motors provides the following advantages:

  • Economical – an electric motor can work continuously.
  • Dependable - electric motors are always ready to work; temperature extremes and changes have little effect.
  • Efficient -electric motor efficiency ranges from 65 to 95 percent, depending on motor type and conditions of operation.
  • Longevity - smooth operation and few moving parts enables an electric motor to last 20-30 years.
  • Ease of operation - electric motors can be started and stopped by a simple switch.
  • Safety - electric motors are safe when properly installed, require no flammable fuel, produce no dangerous flames or fumes, and have no open gears.
  • Maintenance – electric motors require minimum attention; no fuel to carry, no oil to change, no battery to service, and no coolant level to monitor.
  • Quiet operation - properly applied and installed electric motors operate quietly and smoothly with little vibration.
  • Automation - electric motors can be automatically and remotely controlled.
  • Adaptable - electric motors are light, compact, easily moved, and adaptable to different operating positions, remote locations, and a variety of other conditions.
  • Available – electric motors are uniformly available throughout the country, with standard bases, sizes, wiring requirements, etc.