UA32 Three-phase Motors and Drives

Pearson BTEC Level 3 Engineering – UA32 Three-phase Motors and Drives.

This unit can be studied as a standalone TECOL unit in Engineering, or as part of an Edexcel accredited BTEC Level 3 qualification in Engineering.  

Aim and purpose

This unit aims to give you knowledge of three-phase electric motors that are used in modern industry and their associated drives.

Unit introduction

The unit will provide a good foundation for anyone interested in taking up a career in the manufacturing or processing industry. Three-phase motors are used where greater amounts of power are required and single-phase motors would not be effective. A good example of this is a large compressor where a constant speed is required. The two main advantages of three-phase types over single-phase types are the smoother torque they provide and a higher power to weight ratio, giving smaller frame sizes for comparable power outputs.

This unit will develop your knowledge of the design and operation of 3-phase motors which use electrical and electronic control devices to make them work. This will include being able to read and produce simple circuit diagrams and understand the principles of installation, commissioning and maintenance. You will be made aware of the requirements of a drive and the need for the motor and drive to be matched to the characteristics of the application.

On completion of this unit you should:

1 Know how squirrel-cage and wound rotor three-phase induction motors operate

2 Know how three-phase synchronous and synchronous-induction motors operate

3 Know about the function and operation of motor starters and control gear

4 Know about a range of industrial applications for installing, commissioning and maintaining three-phase motors.