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Voltage Sag Due To Induction Motor Starting

Induction motors cause voltage sag during startup due to high inrush currents and the absence of back EMF, leading to significant voltage drops that can affect nearby sensitive loads. The sag typically lasts 0.1 to 1 second and can drop to 70% or less of nominal voltage, influenced by factors such as motor size and system impedance. Implementing methods like soft starters, star-delta starters, and variable frequency drives can effectively mitigate the impact of voltage sag on the supply system.

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76 views3 pages

Voltage Sag Due To Induction Motor Starting

Induction motors cause voltage sag during startup due to high inrush currents and the absence of back EMF, leading to significant voltage drops that can affect nearby sensitive loads. The sag typically lasts 0.1 to 1 second and can drop to 70% or less of nominal voltage, influenced by factors such as motor size and system impedance. Implementing methods like soft starters, star-delta starters, and variable frequency drives can effectively mitigate the impact of voltage sag on the supply system.

Uploaded by

thirumalaivasank85
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Voltage Sag Due to Induction Motor Starting

1. Why Induction Motors Cause Voltage Sag During Starting

a. High Inrush Current

At startup, an induction motor draws a current 6 to 8 times its rated full-load current. This large inrush current

leads to a sudden drop in voltage across the supply system impedance.

b. Absence of Back EMF Initially

When the motor is at rest, there is no back electromotive force (EMF) to oppose the applied voltage. Hence,

the motor behaves almost like a short circuit, pulling very high current.

2. Impact of Voltage Sag

a. On the Motor Supply System

The voltage drop is proportional to the product of the inrush current and source impedance. Nearby sensitive

loads may experience a momentary dip in voltage, even if they are not starting the motor.

b. On Other Loads

Computers, PLCs, relays, and lighting circuits may malfunction or reset due to the voltage sag. Industrial

processes can halt, especially those dependent on control systems.


Voltage Sag Due to Induction Motor Starting

3. Duration and Depth of Sag

Duration: Typically lasts 0.1 to 1 second, depending on motor size and acceleration time.

Depth: The sag magnitude can go down to 70% or less of nominal voltage in severe cases.

4. Factors Influencing the Severity of Sag

Factor Effect on Sag

Size of Motor Larger motors draw more inrush current

System Impedance Higher impedance causes deeper sags

Distance from Substation Longer distance = higher line impedance

Type of Starter Used Direct-on-line (DOL) causes worst sag

Load on the Motor Heavy mechanical loads extend starting time

5. Methods to Reduce Voltage Sag from Motor Starting

a. Soft Starters

Gradually increase voltage to the motor. Reduce inrush current significantly.

b. Star-Delta Starters

Start in star configuration (low voltage), then switch to delta. Reduces starting current to about 1/3 of DOL

current.
Voltage Sag Due to Induction Motor Starting

c. Auto-Transformer Starters

Supply reduced voltage during startup. Helps limit current and therefore voltage dip.

d. VFD (Variable Frequency Drives)

Control both voltage and frequency during startup. Most effective in reducing starting current and associated

voltage sag.

e. Start Motor During Off-Peak Hours

If possible, stagger large motor startups to reduce cumulative impact.

6. Real-Life Example

In a textile mill, starting a 150 HP induction motor directly causes a voltage sag to 75% of nominal for 0.8

seconds. This sag resets nearby programmable logic controllers (PLCs), stopping the weaving process and

causing downtime.

7. Conclusion

Voltage sag due to induction motor starting is a predictable and manageable event. Understanding the

behavior of motor inrush and implementing starting techniques like soft starters or VFDs can greatly reduce

the severity of voltage sags, improving system reliability and power quality.

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