Understanding NEMA Motor Nameplates

Prepared by: Jon Roberts, 7/2003

Problem Statement:
Motor nameplates can be confusing.

Solution:
This technical paper discusses how to read and interpret National Electric Manufacturers Association (NEMA) motor nameplates. A companion paper discusses IEC nameplates.

1. Who Determines What Goes on a Nameplate?

Motor standards are established on a country by country basis. Fortunately though, the standards can be grouped into two major categories: NEMA and IEC (and its derivatives). In North America, the National Electric Manufacturers Association (NEMA) sets motor standards, including what should go on the nameplate (NEMA Standard MG 1-10.40 "Nameplate Marking for Medium Single-Phase and Polyphase Induction Motors"). In most of the rest of the world, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) sets the standards. Or at least many countries base their standards very closely on the IEC standards (for example, Germany's VDE 0530 standard and Great Britain's BS 2613 Standard closely parallel the IEC 34-1 standard). The NEMA and IEC standards are quite similar, although they sometimes use different terminology. Thus, if one understands the IEC nameplate, it is fairly easy to understand a NEMA nameplate, and vice-versa.

2. NEMA Nameplates
Below is a typical motor nameplate based on the NEMA standard:

The nameplate information can be grouped into 6 different categories, including: general characteristics, electrical input, mechanical output, performance, reliability, and safety.

GENERAL & CONSTRUCTION DETAILS 2.1 Manufacturers Type

NEMA requires a manufacturer's type, but there is no industry standard for what this is. It is sometimes used to define 1 or 3-phase; single or multi-speed; construction, etc. The "type" definition varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Below are some of the "types" of motors that may be encountered: 1-Phase: Shaded Pole. Lowest starting torque, low cost, low efficiency, no capacitors. No start switch. Used on small direct-drive fans and small gearmotors. 1-Phase: PSC (Permanent Split Capacitor). Similar to shaded pole applications except much higher efficiency, lower current and higher horsepower capability. Has run capacitor in circuit at all times. 1-Phase: Split Phase. Moderate to low starting torque, no capacitor and has starting switch. Used on easy start, beltdrive fans and blowers, light start pump applications and gearmotors. 1-Phase: Capacitor-Start. Designed in both moderate and high starting torque types with both having moderate starting current and high breakdown torque. Uses include conveyors and air compressors. 3-Phase. Generally 3-phase induction motors have a high starting torque, high power factor, high efficiency, and low current. Does not use a switch, capacitor or relay for starting. Suitable for use on larger commercial and industrial applications. AC/DC (Universal or Series Wound). Operates on AC (60 or 50 Hz) power. High speed. Speed drops rapidly as load increases. Used for drills, saws, etc., where high output and small size are desired and speed characteristic and limited life (primarily of brushes) is acceptable. Shunt Wound and Permanent Magnet DC. High starting and breakdown torque. Provide smooth operation at low speeds. Used on constant or diminishing torque applications with Type K rectified DC power.

Motors can also be classified by their pupose: General Purpose Motors are designed for mechanical loads and hard to start loads, including conveyors, belt-driven equipment, machine tools, reciprocating pumps and compressors, etc. Their bearings can handle heavier radial and axial loads, and their physical construction is more heavy-duty than some other motors Special Purpose Motors are specifically designed for certain applications. For example, HVAC Motors are primarily designed for fans, centrifugal pumps, small tools, office equipment, and other light to medium duty applications. Other types of definite duty motors include washdown, hazardous location, farm duty, pump duty, universal AC/DC, vacuum, etc.

2.2

Design ("Des," "NEMA Design" or "Design")

A letter designation which describes the torque and current characteristics of the motor. There are standard definitions for designs A, B, C and D. Some manufacturers will use other letters to describe motors with characteristics that differ from these standards. A: Torque characteristics similar to type B motors, but no limit on inrush current. This can cause starter sizing issues if not careful. B: Most common design. The inrush current is limited to established standards, insuring that the typical motorstarters are suitable. C: High starting torque motors. D: Oil well pumping motors.

The following graph illustrates the performance characteristics of each of these types.

Performance Characteristics fordifferent NEMA Design Motors

source: "What Do All Those Things On An AC Motor Nameplate Mean?" ABB

2.3

Enclosure (Encl)

Describes the motor housing, the degree to which a motor is protected from the environment, and its method of cooling. Some of the more common enclosures are described below: ODP - Open Drip Proof: Allows air to circulate through the motor for cooling, but protected from drips up to 15o off of vertical. Typically used for indoor applications in relatively clean, dry locations. TEFC - Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled: No airflow through the motor. An external fan blows air over the exterior of the motor for cooling. This motor is not water-tight. Outside air and moisture can enter the motor, but not in enough quantities to impair performance. Typically used for outdoor and dirty locations. TENV - Totally Enclosed Non-Ventilated: Similar to a TEFC, but has no cooling fan. It is dependent on convection and radiation for cooling. TEVF - Totally Enclosed with Vented Flange. TEAO - Totally Enclosed Air Over: A special motor used for fans. It has no integral fan, but uses the airflow from the driven fan for cooling. TEBC - Totally Enclosed Blower Cooled. WD - Washdown: Designed to withstand high pressure washdowns or other high humidity or wet environments. Available on TEAO, TEFC and TENV enclosures. WP - Weather-Protected. EXPL - Explosion-proof enclosures: The motor is designed to withstand an internal explosion of specified gases or vapors, and not allow the internal flame or explosion to escape. Available on TEFC or TENV enclosures. HAZ - Hazardous Location: For use in various hazardous locations, as defined by the National Electric Code. The following hazardous locations are defined: CLASS I Group A: Acetylene Group B: Butadiene, ethylene oxide, hydrogen, propylene oxide, manufactured gases containing more than 30ydrogen by volume. Group C: Acetaldehyde, cyclopropane, diethyl ether, ethylene. Group D: Acetone, acrylonitrile, ammonia, benzene, butane, ethanol, ethylene dichloride, gasoline, hexane, isoprene, methane (natural gas), methanol, naphtha, propane, propylene, styrene, toluene, vinyl acetate, vinyl chloride, xylene. CLASS II Group E: Aluminum, magnesium, and other metal dusts with similar characteristics. Group F: Carbon black, coke or coal dust. Group G: Flour, starch or grain dust.

CLASS III Easily ignitable fibers, such as rayon, cotton, sisal, hemp, cocoa fiber, oakum, excelsior and other materials of similar nature. The NEMA enclosure description is similar to the IEC Index of Protection (IP) code. The NEMA designations are more descriptive and general, whereas the IEC IP codes are more precise and narrowly defined by a 2-digit code, with the first digit defining how well protected the motor is from solid objects and the second digit describing how well protected the motor is from moister. For example, a NEMA "Open Drip Proof (ODP)" motor corresponds to an IP22, and a NEMA "Totally Enclosed" motor corresponds to an IP54, a NEMA "Weather-Proof" motor to an IP45, and a NEMA "WashDown" motor to an IP55.

2.4

Frame

Describes mounting dimensions, including foot hole mounting patter, shaft diameter, shaft height, etc. It does not define overall length and height, conduit box extension length, etc. Some common frames include: 445T: Modern standard T-Frame. 445U: defined prior to 1965. The predecessor to the T-frame

The first 2 digits of the frame size divided by 4 equal the height (in inches) of the shaft centerline from the bottom of the mounting feet. For a more comprehensive listing of frame sizes and their associated dimensions, refer to the "NEMA Frame Guide" in the Grainger Catalog. http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/static.jsp?page=rc_nemafmgd.html.

2.5

Shaft Type (optional)

Flat. Usually found on motors with up to 1/2" diameter shaft. Lengths of flat is governed by NEMA standards. Balance of shaft is round. Key. Primarily used on motors with 5/8" and larger shaft diameter. Key size is determined by NEMA standards. Round. Used on small C-frame shaded pole motors. Full length of shaft is round. Thd (Threaded). Used on uni-directional motors for special applications such as driving impeller of jet pumps. Threaded in opposite direction to shaft rotation so driven device tightens on shaft. Others are available for specific applications.

Describes the output shaft. The general shaft types include:

2.6

Mounting (optional)
Face, Flange (C-face, Flange). Shaft-end endshield has a flat mounting surface, machined to standard dimension, with holes to allow easy, secure mounting to driven equipment. Commonly used on jet pumps, oil burners and gear reducers. The mounting dimensions are based on industry (NEMA) standards. Brkt, Lug, Halo. Mounting bracket is secured to motor. Bracket's mounting holes have positions which do not relate to an industry standard, but specific applications will usually have the same hole mounting patterns. When replacing a motor, the on-center dimensions of holes should be checked. Holes. Threaded holes are machined into motor and are usually located on shaft end. Hole positions do not relate to an industry standard, but motors intended for specific applications will usually have the same hole patterns. When replacing a motor, the on-center dimensions of holes should be checked. Cradle (Resilient cradle). Motor is provided with a base which is isolated from motor shell with vibration-absorbing material, such as rubber rings. Mounting dimensions are based on industry (NEMA) standards. Rigid (Rigid base). Motor is provided with base which is either welded or bolted to motor shell. Mounting dimensions are based on industry (NEMA) standards. Ring (Resilient ring). Vibration-absorbing material such as rubber rings are provided on each endshield. Base or bracket (not provided) is usually clamped to these rings. When replacing motor, on-center distance of rings should be checked.

Describes the method of mounting the motor. The basic types include:

Stud (Stud, Bolt, Thrubolt). Motor has bolts or welded studs extending from front and/or rear endshield. Positioning of studs or bolts do not relate to an industry standard, but will usually be common for a given motor diameter. When replacing motor, on-center distance of studs or bolts should be checked. Yoke. Tabs are welded to bottom of motor shell for bolting to a fan column or bracket. Used on fan-duty motors only. Hub. A mounting ring on shaft end of motor. Designed to fit specific applications, such as carbonator pumps and pedestal sump pumps.
from: "AC Induction Motor Nameplate Key," Grainger Catalog.

2.7

Bearings (optional)
Slv (Sleeve). Preferred where low noise level and lower cost is important, as on fan and blower motors. Sleeve bearing motors listed herein can be mounted in any position, including shaft up or shaft down (all-position mounting). Ball. Where higher load capacity and/or less frequent lubrication is desired. Ball bearings are pre-lubricated and protected to keep out contaminants. B&S. (Ball & Sleeve). Ball bearing on shaft end, sleeve on terminal box end. Unit. Constructed with a single sleeve bearing. Fan-duty only. All-position mounting unless otherwise noted.
from: "AC Induction Motor Nameplate Key," Grainger Catalog.

Provides information on the bearing type & design. The main types are:

MECHANICAL OUTPUT 2.8 Horsepower

The rated shaft power output at the rated voltage, current and frequency. The motor's power output is related to its torque by the following relationship: HP = (torque [lb-ft]) * (speed [RPM]) / 5250

2.9

Full Load RPM

The motor's speed when delivering rated HP at rated full load torque. Multi-speed shaded pole and PSC motors show maximum speed first, followed by total number of speeds (i.e., 3000/3Spd). Multi-speed split phase and capacitor-start motors have maximum speed shown first, followed by second speed (i.e., 1725/1140). RPM rating for a gearmotor represents output shaft speed. Note: Many "high" efficiency motors have higher speed ratings than comparable sized standard efficiency motors. This higher operating speed can actually increase power consumption in centrifugal loads (e.g., pumps and fans). For centrifugal loads, torque is proportional to the square of the speed; e.g., doubling the speed will increase torque by 2^2 = 4. Power is equal to torque x speed, or proportional to the cube of speed. Thus, a small increase in speed can have a much larger increase in power consumption. For example, a 1% increase in speed will result in a 3% increase in power (1.01^3= 1.03).

ELECTRICAL INPUT 2.10 Rated Voltage (Volts)

This is the voltage at which the motor is designed to operate. Nameplate values for current, power factor, efficiency, and torque, are based on operation at rated voltage and frequency. Using a motor at a different voltage will change its performance. Manufacturers often rate their motors for a variety of different voltages. For example, a motor can be wound for both 230 and 460 V in which case the nameplate would read 230/460. In some cases, it can be operated at other voltages but with degraded performance; for this example 208 V in which case the nameplate would read 208-230/460.

One may wonder why the above voltage ratings are not for the network voltages (240 or 480 V). Most manufacturers assume there will be a voltage drop through the buildings network to the motor terminals, so they rate their motors for the actual voltage expected at the motor terminals. Therefore, a 460 V motor is usually suitable for a facility with a 480 V network supply voltage.

2.11 Rated Current (Amps, FLA)

The current the motor draws at the rated load when operated at the rated voltage and frequency. Unbalanced phases, under-voltage conditions, etc. can cause deviation from rated current.

2.12 Current When Operated at the Service Factor Load - Optional (S.F.A.)
The current drawn by the motor when operated at service factor load.

2.13 Frequency.
Input electricity frequency at which the motor is designed to operate, typically 50 or 60 Hz. Sometimes the frequency range is given for variable frequency drive applications.

2.14 Number of phases

Number of AC phases the motor is designed to operate, typically single and three phase.

2.15 Locked-rotor kVA code (L.R. KVA Code, Code)

A letter code (from A-V) which defines the locked-rotor kVA on a per-HP basis. This is used by the installer to determine the proper branch circuit protection rating. Generally, inrush current per HP increases per letter. Replacing a motor with a higher locked rotor code may require additional upstream electrical equipment to handle the higher inrush currents.

2.16 Power Factor (PF)

The power factor of the motor at full load. The power factor is the ratio of active power (W) to apparent power (VA), and can vary from 0 to 1. High power factors (i.e., close to 1) are desirable. The power factor is also equal to the cosine of the angle formed by the lag between the current with respect to the voltage. For induction motors, the power factor varies with load. The following graph shows the typical variation of power factor with load:

Source: "Fact Sheet: Determining Electric Motor Load and Efficiency," US Department of Energy Motor Challenge Program

2.17 Power Factor Correction (Max Corr KVAR) (Optional)

If given, this is the maximum power factor correcting capacitor size to be used. Value is typically given in kVARs. Using higher values than specified could result in higher voltages which could damage the motor or other components.

PERFORMANCE 2.18 NEMA nominal efficiency (Nom Eff, Nom NEMA Eff.)
This is the average efficiency for a large number of the same motors. The actual motor efficiency is guaranteed to be within a band of this nominal efficiency by the manufacturer. The efficiency band varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. The maximum allowable "band" is 20% set by NEMA. This is a large range; therefore pay close attention to the manufacturer's actual minimum guarantee!

2.19 Service factor (SF)

This is the percent of overloading the motor can handle for short periods due to periodic overloading, or high/low voltage conditions. Most motors have a duty factor of 1.15 for open motors and 1.0 for totally closed motors. The service factor is required to appear on the nameplate only if it is different from SF = 1 Operating a motor at overloads allowed by the service factor for extended periods can result in overheating, decreased efficiency, decreased power factor, etc.

2.20 Duty
The length of time which a motor can operate at its rated load safely. Continuous (or "Cont.") is the typical rating. However, some motors are rated for intermittent duty, such as crane, hose, valve actuator and others. The intermittent duty rating is typically expressed in minutes.

RELIABILITY 2.21 Insulation class (Ins Cl, Insul Class)

A letter designation specifying the thermal tolerance, or ability to survive a specified temperature for a specified period of time, of the motor windings. Three insulation classes are generally used: Class A: 105 C maximum Class B: 130 C maximum Class F: 155 Celsius maximum.

2.22 Maximum Ambient Temperature (Max Amb)

The maximum ambient operating temperature and still be within tolerance of the insulation class at the maximum temperature rise. Typically given in degrees Celsius.

2.23 Altitude
The altitude at which a motor can operate and still be within its design temperature rise and meet other nameplate data. Operating at lower altitudes will make the motor run cooler, while operating at higher altitudes will make it run hotter.

SAFETY 2.24 Thermal Protection (Over Temp Prot)

Describes the motor's thermal or over-temperature protection, if so equipped. Thermal protection can include the following: Auto (Automatic Reset). Contains temperature-sensing device that disconnects one leg of its power source if temperature becomes excessive due to failure-to-start or overload. After motor cools, thermal protector automatically restores power. Should not be used where unexpected re-starting would be hazardous. Imp. (Impedance). Motor is designed so that it will not burn out in less than 15 days under locked rotor (stalled) conditions, in accordance with UL standard No. 519. Man. (Manual Reset). Contains a temperature-sensing device that disconnects one leg of its power source if temperature becomes excessive due to failure-to-start or overload. After motor cools, an external button must be pushed to restore power to the motor. Turn off power prior to attempting to reset motor protector. Preferred where unexpected re-starting would be hazardous, as on saws, conveyors, compressors, etc. None. Motor contains no temperature-sensing device to protect motor from excessive temperature due to failure-tostart or overload. Motor should be protected by other means in accordance with the NEC and local code requirements. T-St(Thermostat).A temperature-sensing device installed inside the motor with separate leads brought out for connection into motor starter pilot circuit. Under failure-to-start or overload conditions, thermostat contacts will open. Thermostat contacts will reclose automatically when motor cools.
from: "AC Induction Motor Nameplate Key," Grainger Catalog.

2.25 Special Markings/Certifications

These reflect 3rd party certification or recognition. Some of the more common certifications include: CSA: reviewed and approved by the Canadian Standards Association UL: reviewed and approved by the Underwriters Laboratory

3. Additional Resources
"A Comparison of the Characteristics of AC and DC Motors," A white paper providing a good general overview of AC vs. DC motor differences. www.abb.com/manuals/dr/index.htm#motors. "Glossary of Motor Terms," provides a good overview & explanation of motor terms. www.abb.com/manuals/dr/index.htm#motors. "What Do All Those Things On An AC Motor Nameplate Mean?" A white paper providing an informative description of motor nameplates. www.abb.com/manuals/dr/index.htm#motors. "Electric Motor Nameplate Definitions & Nomenclature," http://www.3dind.com/page7.html "What Do All Those Things on an AC Motor Nameplate Mean?" White Paper, Reliance Motors, from May 1993 issue of Power Transmission Design. http://www.reliance.com/prodserv/motgen/b7095_1.htm "What Do All Those Things on an AC Motor Nameplate Mean?" http://www.elongo.com/pdfs/MotorNameplate990519.pdf "AC Induction Motor Nameplate Key," Grainger Catalog. http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/static.jsp? page=rc_nameptdatakey.html "NEMA Frame Guide," Grainger Catalog. http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/static.jsp?page=rc_nemafmgd.html "Motor Technical Glossary," Grainger Catalog. http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/static.jsp?page=rc_techglass.html "Fact Sheet: Determining Electric Motor Load and Efficiency, " US Department of Energy Motor Challenge Program, www.oit.doe.gov/bestpractices/mtors/factsheets/10097517.pdf Motor Master+ 4.0 User Guide, www.oit.doe.gov/bestpractices/motors/ US Department of Energy Motor Challenge website, www.oit.doe.gov/bestpractices/motors/ European Commission Motor Challenge website, http://energyefficiency.jrc.cec.eu.int/motorchallenge.htm European Commission EuroDEEM website, http://energyefficiency.jrc.cec.eu.int/eurodeem/ "Electric Motor Efficiency," EuroDEEM program, http://energyefficiency.jrc.cec.eu.int/eurodeem/pdf/motor_brochure_v3.pdf

4. Test Your Knowledge

You are selecting a motor for an air handling unit located inside a mechanical room. The motor is mounted externally, outside of the airstream. What is the most appropriate motor enclosure? a) TENV b) TEFC c) ODP d) TEAO A NEMA Design B motor fails. The facility has an identical spare motor on hand, except it is a Design A motor. a) The only difference between design A and B motors is that the enclosure is more rugged on design A motors. The mechanical and electrical characteristics are the same. Therefore, it is fine to use this motor. b) The mechanical characteristics are similar, although starting torque is higher. This results in a higher inrush starting current that may cause problems with the starter and other downstream electrical component sizing. Therefore this motor should not be used unless an electrician or engineer ensures that the electrical system is suitable and the driven load will not be affected.

c) The mechanical characteristics are similar, although starting torque is higher. This should present no problem so go ahead and use this motor. d) A Design A motor is for use on DC power only, whereas a Design B motor is for use on AC systems. Therefore, this motor can not be used. A motor nameplate reads "NEMA Nom Eff 90.2" This means: a) The motor complies with NEMA Standard 90.2 which sets minimum motor efficiency standard. b) The manufacturer guarantees the motor will operate at or above this efficiency. c) This is the weighted average efficiency of the motor operating at 100%, 75% and 50% loads). d) This is the average efficiency of this motor model, but actual efficiency may vary. A motor nameplate reads "AMPS." This is: a) The maximum inrush current the motor will experience, and should be used for sizing the motor starter and other downstream electrical gear. b) The motors current when operating at the rated load, and is the same for either 50 or 60 Hz operation. c) The motors current when operating at the rated load, voltage and frequency. d) The locked rotor current. A motor nameplate reads "RPM." This is: a) The synchronous speed of the motor. b) The slip speed of the motor. c) The speed of the motor when operating at the rated load, voltage and frequency. d) The speed the motor when operating at any load (speed is constant) A motor nameplate reads "VOLTS 208-230/460." This means: a) The motor can operate equally well at 208 V, 230 V or 460 V. b) This is a 3-speed motor designed to operate at different speeds depending on the input voltages specified. c) The motor is wound to accommodate 230 or 460 volts, but can also operate at 208 volts but with derated performance. d) The motor is internally wound so that it can be connected to operate in a DELTA configuration at 208 V, or in a WYE configuration at 360 or 480 V.