Wye Start Delta Run
Wye Start Delta Run
Wye Start Delta Run
Part Winding
In order to understand the wye-delta motors and wye start delta run
motors, we should discuss motor connection and starting terminology as
applied to three phase motors. The simplest and most economic way to
start a three phase, squirrel cage, induction motor is with a full voltage
starter. This starting method is referred to as:
Many OEMs and most distributors like to stock motors that may be used
with various power supplies. For this reason we find many motors rated for
dual voltage. The most common domestic motor in NEMA frames is the 9
lead, dual voltage motor rated 230/460 volts. Note, the voltage ration is
1:2. For 230 volt operation, the coils are connected in parallel; for 460 volt
operation, in series (see the schematics below).
Many foreign countries have 380 volt and 220 volt, 50 Hertz power supply;
it would therefore be desirable to stock motors with such voltage
combinations. It so happens that the relationship between a delta
connected motor and a wye connected motor is 1 3 or 1:1.173 or 220:380
volts as shown on the following schematics. This type of motor has six
leads identified as shown below.
The above connected motor is also suitable for reduced voltage type
starting known as wye-delta or star-delta on 220 volt power supply. In the
starting mode the special magnetic starter connects the motor coils in
wye. Note above that in wye connection, the motor should see 380 volts to
develop full load torque; but, since we only apply 220 volts, the motor will
only develop 33% torque and will draw only 33% of the normal starting
current. After a predetermined time, the starter changes the motor coils
from wye to delta, which is the full voltage running connection.
Note that in the following figure one of the "S" contactors is shown dotted
since some starter manufacturers use only two instead of three
contactors. Also note that a 3/50/220/380 motor could also be called a
3/50/220 motor wye-delta start.
1M & 2M Contactors
Close During Run, "S" Contactors Open
It is not always clear what a customer wants. A typical request for a three
phase motor may state that the power supply is 50 Hertz, 220/380 volts.
This generally means 380 volts, three phase/220 volts, single phase.
If the request is for a 3/50/220/380 motor, the customer may want to use
the motor on 220 volt power supply with a wye-delta starter. He may also
sell the motors to different countries having either 220 volt or 380 volt
power supply.
Occasionally, we come across requests for 3/50/380/660 motors. We
cannot furnish such a motor in NEMA size ratings unless the customer
wants a 380 volt motor suitable for wye-start, delta-run. The reason why
we cannot furnish such a motor is because our random wound insulation
system used in NEMA frame motors is only approved for 600 volts, plus
10%. According to a chart titled, "World Electricity Supplies:, there are only
two countries, Finland and East Germany, which have a 660 volt power
supply. There are also some power plants which tend to use a 660 volt
distribution for their in-plant equipment.
There are also some distributors or OEMs who like to stock dual voltage
wye-start, delta run motors such as 3/50/220/440. This type of motor
requires twelve leads and is connected parallel wye-delta for low voltage
and series wye delta for high voltage. See the figure below.
220 Volt
440 Volt
Part Winding. This method used only a portion (usually one-half, but
sometimes two-thirds) of the motor winding, increasing the impedance
seen by the power system. It is to be used only for voltage recovery, and
must not be left on the start connection for more than 2 to 3 seconds. The
motor is not expected to accelerate on the start connection, and may not
even turn.