Why are start&run capacitors used on electric motors?
The AC induction motor is a powerful electric motor. There are several designs that include the use of capacitors for starting and running. Powerful induction motors up to 10 horsepower are available for running heavy loads such as air conditioners.Capacitor StartThe capacitor of a capacitor start induction motor is used to supply additional current to the motor’s auxiliary winding as the motor starts up. The additional magnetic field of the auxiliary winding allows the motor to start under heavier loads.Capacitor RunA capacitor run induction motor uses two capacitors. One large value capacitor to supply additional current during starting is switched off as the motor comes up to speed. A second, smaller-value capacitor is used to improve the efficiency of the motor as it runs.Motor WindingsWindings are wires wrapped around an iron core. When current flows through a winding, it produces a magnetic field which pushes on the opposing magnetic fields of the motor’s magnets and turns the mo
