Bearing Fluting Specialists Stop the Attack at the source
Why is Impedance Imbalance for Electric Motors so important.

Why is Impedance Imbalance for Electric Motors so important.

Saturday, April 4, 2020

The analogy is liking it to Running a car for long periods of time with, out of balanced wheels.

Impedance imbalance is the electrical equivalent of getting your wheels balanced, its saves energy, reduces wear & tear, and risks other damage like suspension & steering. So what is it????

Impedance is the load the electrical supply see’s when running an electric motor. And it uses a lot!!!!

47% of global electricity consumption is use in motor systems.

It is the Number One Electrical consumer in your facility by far!

Electrical Energy Consumption Globally

Take a cooling tower motor which runs continuous, it will typically uses 16x its purchase value in energy annually. Based on 9.7 euro cents per kWhr.

The motor manufacturers produce motors to a standard eff2 or eff3 which has an approximate efficiency of 90+% for small motors and 95+% for motors above 100kW.

A lot of factors can eat away at this efficiency when installed, such as motor loading, harmonics, mechanical losses in impellers, alignment, and balancing.

You may not be aware but Impedance imbalance is a big factor, a 3% imbalance leads to approximately 3% efficiency loss, but a 6% imbalance is closer to 8% loss. Most of the losses end up as heat decaying Motor Insulation, Terminations and Switch gear and if left without remedy propagate to a failure.

The average Impedance Imbalance of defects in Electric Motors of 3Phi Reliability database is 8.25%. That Energy saving Opportunity is significant when purchasing or overhauling a Motor.

Impedance Z is the total resistance of a motor circuit and is made up of Resistance R, Reactance XL, and Capacitance Xc.

The R components usually made up of cable and coil resistance but can be elevated by burnt contacts, poor crimps, corroded or poor terminations, and makes up the dominant portion of defects.

XL is the motor winding impedance, defects from new or overhauled motors affect imbalance. Xc is the capacitance component dominated by cable, insulation and contamination factors.

Conducting Motor Circuit Analysis measures Impedance will identify imbalances some be remedied, but Winding and Rotor defects in Overhauled or New Motors means your stuck with them for the life of the motor (Probably a shorten the life).

There’s a strong correlation between Impedance Imbalance and developing winding defects.

While Resistance imbalances which affect winding voltage can be remedied by proper termination many defects are permanent.

Setting a purchase & overhaul specification and conducting acceptance testing serves as a filter, stops them entering your plant and someone else is likely to get them.

The rejection rate can be significant, and even if you have to pay a premium the cost will be recouped rapidly in energy & reliability savings, often in months.

3Phi Reliability Motor Health Assessment uses the ALL Test Pro MotorGenie within minutes can assess the Health of an electric Motor and is validated under IEEE 1415:2006 standard.

The Impedance Imbalance is often seen in the Vibration Analysis Spectra as Twice Line Frequency being 100 hz or 120 hz depending on the supply frequency. This frequency is produced as the magnetic out of balance pulls one way in the positive sine wave voltage, then negative on the opposite portion of the sine wave.

In this case the MotorGenie found multiple connection defects on a centrifuge motor and the remedial work dropped the Electrical harmonics by 84% saving 3500 GBP per annum in Electrical Energy.

High 2xLF Two Times Line Frequency 100hz

Before Remedial Work

2xLF Two Times Line Frequecny nearly completely eliminated

Post Remedial Work

This vibration of 100 hz is very common and a good starting point to identifying the defects is to rank your assets by 2xLF Two Time Line Frequency 100hz (120hz US) and then conduct Motor Circuit Analysis on those circuits.

This targeted approach provides a much higher return on effort if all your Motors can not be tested in a short period of time. The energy savings alone will turn your Preventative Maintenance into a profit center.

Ensure you document the "As Found" and "As Left" conditions and it is very easy to calculate the Energy Savings. If you need help https://www.3phi-reliability.com/contact-us

Test Methods for determining the impact of Motor Condition on Motor Efficiency https://www.3phi-reliability.com/case-studies

https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/electrical-motor-testing-maintenance

Motor Genie All TestPro

3Phi Reliability implement proven strategies to elevate your Electrical Preventative Maintenance with Best Practice Motor Management

https://www.3phi-reliability.com/services

Mark Gurney, Gerant 3Phi Reliability Sarl

Best Practice Motor Management
No comments yet

Blog  Free Advice on Electric Motor Reliability and Energy Savings


Feel free to Copy Link and use on your Website  (Blue Chain Button)- MENU ABOVE
3Phi Reliability strive to provide interesting and informative topics to clients to Gain Electric Motor Reliability and Return Energy Savings

Gain Electric Motor Reliability & Return Energy Savings

Most of clients make gains on the every first day of implementation. Best Practice Motor Management has a short Return on Investment, improving Electric Motor Reliability and Energy Savings are immediate.
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/empower-analysis-of-no-load-efficiency-losses-in-electric-motors" }, "headline": "EmPower Analysis of No-Load Efficiency Losses in Electric Motors", "description": "A technical explanation of how no-load losses occur in electric motors, how they can be identified using EmPower current-signature analysis, and what factors such as rotor, stator, and overhaul quality contribute to reduced no-load efficiency.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/empower-analysis-of-no-load-efficiency-losses-in-electric-motors", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/empower-no-load-efficiency.jpg", "datePublished": "2025-05-11", "dateModified": "2025-05-11", "keywords": [ "electric motors", "no-load losses", "no-load efficiency", "motor efficiency", "motor losses", "motor current signature analysis", "EmPower testing", "core losses", "stray losses", "induction motors", "motor reliability", "motor overhaul quality", "energy efficiency", "maintenance analytics" ], "articleSection": "Electric Motor Efficiency" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/electric-motor-stator-failure-root-cause-rotor-casing-void" }, "headline": "Electric Motor Stator Failure Root Cause: Rotor Casing Void", "description": "Analysis of electric motor stator failures caused by rotor casing voids, highlighting how internal rotor defects can lead to stator insulation breakdown, impedance imbalances, and eventual motor failure.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/electric-motor-stator-failure-root-cause-rotor-casing-void", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/rotor-casing-void.jpg", "datePublished": "2025-12-06", "dateModified": "2025-12-06", "keywords": [ "electric motor stator failure", "rotor casing void", "motor rotor defects", "stator insulation breakdown", "impedance imbalance", "motor reliability", "rotor bar casting", "end-ring void", "motor maintenance", "predictive maintenance", "motor testing" ], "articleSection": "Motor Failure Analysis" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/when-an-insulation-resistance-test-maybe-a-fail" }, "headline": "When an Insulation Resistance Test maybe a fail?", "description": "Discussion of common pitfalls in motor insulation resistance testing — including incorrect earth (PE) bonding, mis‑interpretation of insulation resistance test results, and why a quick ‘pass’ at the test’s threshold may be insufficient to guarantee motor safety and compliance.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/when-an-insulation-resistance-test-maybe-a-fail", "datePublished": "2024-12-22", "dateModified": "2024-12-22", "keywords": [ "insulation resistance test", "motor testing", "motor insulation", "electric motor maintenance", "motor reliability", "PE bonding", "megger test", "insulation failures", "preventive maintenance", "motor earth bonding" ], "articleSection": "Motor Testing & Reliability" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/using-the-skf-tked1" }, "headline": "Using the SKF TKED1", "description": "Guidelines and best practices for using the SKF TKED1 electrostatic discharge detector to diagnose bearing‑current issues in inverter‑driven motors, including correct scanning procedure, interpretation of counts, and mitigation strategies.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/using-the-skf-tked1", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/skf-tked1-usage.jpg", "datePublished": "2025-01-15", "dateModified": "2025-01-15", "keywords": [ "SKF TKED1", "bearing current detection", "motor maintenance", "inverter driven motor", "electrostatic discharge detector", "motor reliability", "bearing current protection", "HF emissions measurement", "motor testing", "preventive maintenance", "electric motor diagnostics" ], "articleSection": "Motor Testing & Diagnostics" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/what-is-best-practice-motor-management" }, "headline": "What is Best Practice Motor Management?", "description": "Overview of a comprehensive motor management approach covering motor procurement, acceptance testing, storage, installation, maintenance, spares strategy and preventive maintenance to maximize reliability, minimize downtime and reduce total cost of ownership.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/what-is-best-practice-motor-management", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/best-practice-motor-management.jpg", "datePublished": "2023-09-13", "dateModified": "2023-09-13", "keywords": [ "best practice motor management", "electric motor reliability", "motor asset management", "motor maintenance strategy", "motor acceptance testing", "motor storage", "motor installation", "electric motor spares strategy", "preventive maintenance", "motor circuit analysis", "energy savings", "motor lifecycle management", "facility reliability" ], "articleSection": "Motor Management & Reliability" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/should-contactors-circuit-breakers-be-replaced-after-a-motor-failure" }, "headline": "Should Contactors, Circuit Breakers be replaced after a Motor Failure?", "description": "Discussion on whether power switching and protection devices (contactors, circuit breakers, motor starters) should be replaced or tested after a motor failure or short‑circuit event — covering relevant standards, risks of re‑use, testing methodology and recommended maintenance strategy.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/should-contactors-circuit-breakers-be-replaced-after-a-motor-failure", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/contactor-circuit-breaker-replacement.jpg", "datePublished": "2023-08-27", "dateModified": "2023-08-27", "keywords": [ "contactor replacement", "circuit breaker replacement", "motor failure", "motor protection devices", "short circuit test", "motor starter", "industrial motor maintenance", "switchgear safety", "preventive maintenance", "UL489", "IEC 60947", "circuit breaker inspection", "reliability engineering" ], "articleSection": "Motor Protection & Maintenance" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/winding-resistance-definition" }, "headline": "Winding Resistance Definition", "description": "Definition and explanation of motor winding resistance: what it measures, limitations of simple multimeter tests, how winding resistance imbalance can signal connection or circuit defects and why accurate resistance testing is important for motor reliability and energy savings.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/winding-resistance-definition", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/winding-resistance-definition.jpg", "datePublished": "2023-08-21", "dateModified": "2023-08-21", "keywords": [ "winding resistance", "motor winding resistance", "motor circuit resistance", "electric motor testing", "motor reliability", "resistance imbalance", "motor maintenance", "All TestPro", "motor energy efficiency", "preventive maintenance" ], "articleSection": "Motor Testing & Reliability" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/best-practice-in-electric-motor-storage" }, "headline": "Best Practice in Electric Motor Storage", "description": "Guidelines and recommendations for correctly storing electric motor spares — ensuring they remain 'fit for use' when needed by controlling environment, avoiding damage, ensuring identification and proper maintenance of stored motors.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/best-practice-in-electric-motor-storage", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/motor-storage-best-practice.jpg", "datePublished": "2020-03-31", "dateModified": "2020-03-31", "keywords": [ "electric motor storage", "motor spares management", "motor spare parts store", "motor reliability", "electric motor maintenance", "motor storage best practice", "preventive maintenance", "motor inventory control", "motor acceptance testing", "asset management", "spare motor readiness", "motor store conditions" ], "articleSection": "Motor Storage & Management" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/high-percentage-of-small-motors-have-huge-reliability-and-energy-efficiency-gains" }, "headline": "High Percentage of Small Motors Have Huge Reliability and Energy Efficiency Gains", "description": "Analysis showing that a significant proportion of small motors suffer from termination or circuit defects — meaning that addressing these issues can yield substantial gains in reliability, reduce failure risk and improve energy efficiency.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/high-percentage-of-small-motors-have-huge-reliability-and-energy-efficiency-gains", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/small-motor-efficiency-gains.jpg", "datePublished": "2023-08-02", "dateModified": "2023-08-02", "keywords": [ "small electric motors", "motor reliability", "energy efficiency", "motor maintenance", "motor termination defects", "electric motor testing", "motor circuit analysis", "energy savings", "preventive maintenance", "motor spares strategy", "low‑power motor efficiency", "industrial motors" ], "articleSection": "Motor Reliability & Energy Efficiency" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/dissipation-factor-determines-insulation-decay" }, "headline": "Dissipation Factor determines Insulation decay", "description": "Explains how dissipation‑factor (DF) testing can be used to assess the insulation condition of electric motors (and other electrical machines), how DF increases with insulation degradation, contamination or moisture ingress — serving as an early‑warning indicator for insulation decay and impending motor failure.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/dissipation-factor-determines-insulation-decay", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/dissipation-factor-insulation-decay.jpg", "datePublished": "2023-06-26", "dateModified": "2023-06-26", "keywords": [ "dissipation factor", "insulation decay", "electric motor insulation", "motor testing", "motor reliability", "insulation condition monitoring", "dielectric loss factor", "preventive maintenance", "motor maintenance", "motor insulation degradation", "condition monitoring", "industrial motors" ], "articleSection": "Motor Testing & Reliability" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/identifying-electric-motor-health-through-motor-circuit-analysis" }, "headline": "Identifying Electric Motor Health through Motor Circuit Analysis", "description": "Explains how Motor Circuit Analysis (MCA) can be used to assess the entire motor circuit (including cables, connections, and windings) to detect winding defects and predict remaining life of electric motors — enabling improved reliability and energy savings.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/identifying-electric-motor-health-through-motor-circuit-analysis", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/motor-circuit-analysis.jpg", "datePublished": "2023-06-18", "dateModified": "2023-06-18", "keywords": [ "motor circuit analysis", "MCA", "electric motor testing", "motor reliability", "winding defects", "preventive maintenance", "energy savings", "motor health assessment", "industrial motors", "condition monitoring", "AllTestPro", "motor failure prevention" ], "articleSection": "Motor Testing & Reliability" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/how-to-manage-small-sealed-for-life-bearings-in-motors" }, "headline": "How to manage Small Sealed for life Bearings in Motors", "description": "Guidance on managing sealed‑for‑life bearings in small electric motors: understanding that 'life' refers to grease longevity, not bearing lifespan; why sealed bearings often fail due to grease depletion or moisture ingress; and how to implement a condition‑based maintenance strategy using ultrasonic grease‑condition monitoring to avoid unexpected downtime and extend motor reliability.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/how-to-manage-small-sealed-for-life-bearings-in-motors", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/sealed-bearing-management.jpg", "datePublished": "2023-06-06", "dateModified": "2023-06-06", "keywords": [ "sealed bearings", "small electric motors", "bearing maintenance", "sealed for life bearing management", "motor reliability", "grease depletion", "bearing lubrication", "preventive maintenance", "ultrasonic bearing monitoring", "motor downtime prevention", "industrial motor maintenance", "asset management" ], "articleSection": "Bearing Maintenance & Motor Reliability" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/impedance-imbalance-in-electric-motors-inefficiency" }, "headline": "Impedance Imbalance in Electric Motors – Inefficiency", "description": "Explores how impedance imbalance in electric motors leads to increased losses, reduced efficiency and reliability risks; discusses causes of imbalance, its effect on performance and maintenance recommendations to avoid inefficiency and motor failure.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/impedance-imbalance-in-electric-motors-inefficiency", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/impedance-imbalance-inefficiency.jpg", "datePublished": "2025-04-20", "dateModified": "2025-04-20", "keywords": [ "impedance imbalance", "electric motor inefficiency", "motor losses", "motor reliability", "motor circuit analysis", "motor maintenance", "energy efficiency", "industrial motors", "winding defects", "predictive maintenance", "motor testing" ], "articleSection": "Motor Efficiency & Reliability" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/rotor-quality-rotor-influence-check" }, "headline": "Rotor Quality – Rotor Influence Check", "description": "Overview of the Rotor Influence Check (RIC) — a diagnostic test measuring motor impedance while rotating the rotor to detect defects such as broken rotor bars, casting voids, eccentricity or end‑ring problems, which affect motor efficiency, reliability and insulation life.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/rotor-quality-rotor-influence-check", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/rotor-quality-rotor-influence-check.jpg", "datePublished": "2023-04-27", "dateModified": "2023-04-27", "keywords": [ "rotor quality", "Rotor Influence Check", "RIC test", "induction motor rotor defects", "broken rotor bars", "casting voids", "motor impedance test", "motor reliability", "motor efficiency", "motor maintenance", "preventive maintenance", "electric motor testing" ], "articleSection": "Motor Testing & Reliability" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/how-to-gain-electric-motor-reliability-with-two-initiatives" }, "headline": "How to gain Electric Motor Reliability with two initiatives", "description": "Outline of two key initiatives — proper motor acceptance testing (purchase‑right) and correct installation practices (install‑right) — to maximize electric motor reliability, reduce failures and improve energy efficiency. Based on a large field dataset from 3Phi Reliability showing how impedance imbalance and poor terminations affect motor life and performance. ", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/how-to-gain-electric-motor-reliability-with-two-initiatives", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/motor-reliability-two-initiatives.jpg", "datePublished": "2023-04-23", "dateModified": "2023-04-23", "keywords": [ "electric motor reliability", "motor acceptance testing", "motor installation best practice", "impedance imbalance", "motor termination quality", "motor circuit analysis", "preventive maintenance", "motor energy efficiency", "AllTestPro", "motor reliability initiatives", "industrial motor maintenance", "motor purchase specification" ], "articleSection": "Motor Reliability & Maintenance" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/how-current-frequency-response-detects-winding-defects-in-electric-motors" }, "headline": "How Current Frequency Response detects Winding defects in Electric Motors", "description": "Explains how Current Frequency Response (C/F) testing — a low‑voltage, maintenance‑friendly method defined in IEEE 1415 — can detect winding defects in motors by injecting a tone into the winding and comparing current responses across phases to identify coil or insulation faults from anywhere in the circuit.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/how-current-frequency-response-detects-winding-defects-in-electric-motors", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/current-frequency-response-winding-defects.jpg", "datePublished": "2023-04-16", "dateModified": "2023-04-16", "keywords": [ "current frequency response", "motor winding defects", "electric motor testing", "motor reliability", "MCA", "winding fault detection", "AllTestPro", "preventive maintenance", "phase imbalance detection", "industrial motors", "motor condition monitoring" ], "articleSection": "Motor Testing & Diagnostics" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/impedance-imbalance-in-an-electric-motor-wastes-energy" }, "headline": "Impedance Imbalance in an Electric Motor wastes Energy", "description": "Explains how impedance imbalance in an electric motor — due to mismatched reactance or winding/rotor/circuit defects — causes inefficient current draw, heat losses, reduced efficiency and shortened motor life. The article highlights how even motors with high efficiency classes can waste energy if impedance imbalance is not addressed.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/impedance-imbalance-in-an-electric-motor-wastes-energy", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/impedance-imbalance-energy-waste.jpg", "datePublished": "2023-04-15", "dateModified": "2023-04-15", "keywords": [ "impedance imbalance", "electric motor inefficiency", "motor energy waste", "motor losses", "motor reliability", "motor circuit analysis", "induction motor testing", "reactance imbalance", "winding defects", "rotor defects", "preventive maintenance", "industrial motors" ], "articleSection": "Motor Efficiency & Reliability" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/changing-motors-from-iec2-to-iec3-or-iec-4-does-it-pay-back" }, "headline": "Changing Motors from IEC2 to IEC3, or IEC 4, does it Pay Back?", "description": "Analysis of the potential energy‑cost savings and payback period when replacing older IEC2‑class motors with higher‑efficiency IEC3 or IEC4 motors — compared to alternative strategies such as electrical preventive maintenance to correct circuit/wiring issues.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/changing-motors-from-iec2-to-iec3-or-iec-4-does-it-pay-back", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/iec2-to-iec3-iec4-payback.jpg", "datePublished": "2022-12-20", "dateModified": "2022-12-20", "keywords": [ "IEC2 motor", "IEC3 motor", "IEC4 motor", "motor energy efficiency", "motor replacement payback", "electric motor operating cost", "industrial motors", "energy savings", "motor maintenance strategy", "electric motor reliability", "motor circuit maintenance", "preventive maintenance" ], "articleSection": "Motor Efficiency & Energy Savings" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/how-common-mode-voltages-bearing-currents-are-created-part-one" }, "headline": "How Common Mode Voltages (Bearing Currents) are created, Part One", "description": "Explains how common‑mode voltages produced by inverter (VFD) drives can generate high‑frequency common‑mode currents that flow through motor windings, shafts, and bearings — leading to bearing fluting, insulation damage and reduced motor reliability if grounding, cable screening or mitigation measures are not properly applied.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/how-common-mode-voltages-bearing-currents-are-created-part-one", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/common-mode-voltage-bearing-currents.jpg", "datePublished": "2022-12-08", "dateModified": "2022-12-08", "keywords": [ "common mode voltage", "bearing currents", "inverter driven motors", "motor reliability", "bearing fluting", "electric motor maintenance", "VFD motor protection", "motor insulation damage", "EMF cores", "shaft voltage", "motor grounding", "industrial motors" ], "articleSection": "Bearing Currents & Motor Protection" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/the-number-one-ranked-electrical-preventative-maintenance-task-to-save-energy-and-stop-bearing-currents" }, "headline": "The number one ranked Electrical Preventative Maintenance Task to Save Energy and Stop Bearing Currents.", "description": "Explains why checking and maintaining the MEN (Multiple Earth Neutral) link — ensuring a low‑resistance neutral‑to‑earth bond and balanced 3‑phase supply — is considered the top electrical preventive maintenance task. Proper MEN link maintenance prevents supply imbalance, reduces common‑mode voltage from VFDs, decreases energy losses, and mitigates bearing current risk for electric motors.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/the-number-one-ranked-electrical-preventative-maintenance-task-to-save-energy-and-stop-bearing-currents", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/men-link-maintenance.jpg", "datePublished": "2022-12-05", "dateModified": "2022-12-05", "keywords": [ "MEN link", "neutral to earth bond", "electrical preventative maintenance", "motor energy efficiency", "bearing currents mitigation", "motor reliability", "variable frequency drive", "common mode voltage", "power quality", "industrial motor maintenance", "energy savings", "supply imbalance prevention" ], "articleSection": "Motor Protection & Maintenance" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/extraction-fan-1924-gbp-per-annum-energy-savings" }, "headline": "Extraction Fan, 1924 GBP per Annum Energy Savings", "description": "Case study showing how optimising or replacing an extraction fan system can yield significant energy savings (approx. £1,924 per year), by reducing unnecessary running time and improving system efficiency — highlighting cost-effective maintenance for HVAC and ventilation systems.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/extraction-fan-1924-gbp-per-annum-energy-savings", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/extraction-fan-energy-saving.jpg", "datePublished": "2022-12-05", "dateModified": "2022-12-05", "keywords": [ "extraction fan", "energy savings", "ventilation fan efficiency", "industrial ventilation", "fan maintenance", "HVAC energy efficiency", "electric fan energy use", "preventive maintenance", "ventilation system cost savings", "motor efficiency", "fan operating cost" ], "articleSection": "Energy Efficiency & Ventilation" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/why-high-frequency-drive-emissions-are-deadly-for-electric-motor-insulation" }, "headline": "Why High Frequency Drive Emissions are Deadly for Electric Motor Insulation", "description": "Explains how high-frequency emissions from VFD/inverter drives can degrade motor insulation and shorten motor life — highlighting the effects of high switching frequency, capacitive coupling, skin-effect, bearing currents and insulation stress under PWM supply.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/why-high-frequency-drive-emissions-are-deadly-for-electric-motor-insulation", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/high-frequency-drive-insulation-issue.jpg", "datePublished": "2022-10-30", "dateModified": "2022-10-30", "keywords": [ "high frequency drive emissions", "VFD motor insulation damage", "inverter driven motor risks", "common mode voltage", "bearing currents", "motor insulation degradation", "electric motor maintenance", "PWM drive effects", "motor reliability", "insulation stress", "industrial motors", "preventive maintenance" ], "articleSection": "Motor Protection & Reliability" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/phase-angle-test-an-effective-means-of-determining-electric-motor-winding-health" }, "headline": "Phase Angle Test an Effective Means of Determining Electric Motor Winding Health", "description": "Details how the phase angle test — a de-energized, low-voltage method listed in IEEE 1415:2006 — can be used to assess the health of an electric motor’s winding by detecting early changes in inductance, capacitance or insulation, often before traditional tests show abnormalities.", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/phase-angle-test-an-effective-means-of-determining-electric-motor-winding-health", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/blog/phase-angle-test-motor-winding-health.jpg", "datePublished": "2022-10-23", "dateModified": "2022-10-23", "keywords": [ "phase angle test", "motor winding health", "electric motor testing", "motor circuit analysis", "inductance test", "winding insulation condition", "industrial motor maintenance", "predictive maintenance", "motor reliability", "IEEE 1415", "motor preventive maintenance" ], "articleSection": "Motor Testing & Diagnostics" } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/common-defect-in-air-compressors-with-star-delta-starters" }, "headline": "Common Defect in Air Compressors with Star Delta Starters", "description": "Discussion of frequent high-resistance and connection defects in air compressors using Star-Delta starters, leading to motor insulation decay and reduced service life if not maintained properly.", "datePublished": "2022-09-26", "dateModified": "2022-09-26", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/common-defect-in-air-compressors-with-star-delta-starters", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/common-defect-in-air-compressors-with-star-delta-starters", "keywords": [ "air compressors", "star delta starter", "Star-Delta", "motor winding defects", "high resistance defects", "motor insulation decay", "electric motor preventive maintenance", "motor testing", "compressor reliability", "energy savings" ], "articleSection": "Motor Reliability & Maintenance", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "xpath": [ "/html/head/title", "//h1", "//p" ] } } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/bearing-currents-on-motor-drive-units" }, "headline": "Bearing Currents on Motor Drive Units", "description": "Discussion of how high-frequency currents from variable-frequency drives (VFDs) can cause bearing fluting, insulation issues and bearing failures — and how fitting EMF cores can suppress these bearing currents effectively.", "datePublished": "2022-09-25", "dateModified": "2022-09-25", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/bearing-currents-on-motor-drive-units", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/bearing-currents-on-motor-drive-units", "keywords": [ "bearing currents", "motor drive units", "variable frequency drive", "VFD", "EMF cores", "bearing fluting", "motor reliability", "electric motor maintenance", "common mode voltage", "shaft currents" ], "articleSection": "Motor Reliability & Maintenance", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "xpath": [ "/html/head/title", "//h1", "//p" ] } } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/variable-speed-drive-preventative-maintenance" }, "headline": "Variable Speed Drive Preventative Maintenance", "description": "Procedure to test Rectifier & Converter of Variable Speed Drives (VFDs) to detect diode or component defects before functional failure — reducing common mode currents, bearing currents and improving long-term motor reliability.", "datePublished": "2022-08-28", "dateModified": "2022-08-28", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/variable-speed-drive-preventative-maintenance", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/variable-speed-drive-preventative-maintenance", "keywords": [ "variable speed drive", "VFD", "preventative maintenance", "rectifier test", "diode test", "motor reliability", "bearing currents", "common mode current", "electrical maintenance", "drive servicing" ], "articleSection": "Motor Reliability & Maintenance", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "xpath": [ "/html/head/title", "//h1", "//p" ] } } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/what-are-the-methods-of-testing-an-electric-motor" }, "headline": "What are the Methods of Testing an Electric Motor", "description": "Comprehensive overview of the accepted test methods (from IEEE Std 1415-2006) for assessing electric motor health: insulation resistance, dielectric/dissipation factor, winding resistance, surge test, partial discharge, current/voltage analyses, vibration, thermography, oil/grease analysis, and other condition-based techniques recommended by 3Phi Reliability.", "datePublished": "2022-08-14", "dateModified": "2022-08-14", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/what-are-the-methods-of-testing-an-electric-motor", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/what-are-the-methods-of-testing-an-electric-motor", "keywords": [ "electric motor testing", "motor testing methods", "insulation resistance", "dissipation factor", "winding resistance", "surge test", "partial discharge", "vibration analysis", "thermography", "motor maintenance", "motor condition monitoring" ], "articleSection": "Motor Reliability & Maintenance", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "xpath": [ "/html/head/title", "//h1", "//p" ] } } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/financial-justification-of-motor-replacement" }, "headline": "Financial Justification of Motor Replacement", "description": "Explains how inefficiencies and impedance imbalance in electric motors can lead to increased energy costs and reduced reliability — showing how a motor test and financial calculation (using the 3Phi Energy Calculator) can justify replacement, with fast payback and gains in energy savings and uptime.", "datePublished": "2022-08-13", "dateModified": "2022-08-13", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/financial-justification-of-motor-replacement", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/financial-justification-of-motor-replacement", "keywords": [ "motor replacement", "electric motor inefficiency", "impedance imbalance", "energy savings", "motor reliability", "cost justification", "life-cycle cost", "energy efficiency", "electric motor maintenance", "return on investment" ], "articleSection": "Motor Reliability & Maintenance", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "xpath": [ "/html/head/title", "//h1", "//p" ] } } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/checklist-for-implementing-an-electrical-preventative-maintenance-program-electric-motor-testing" }, "headline": "Checklist for Implementing an Electrical Preventative Maintenance Program (Electric Motor Testing)", "description": "Guide to implementing an electrical preventative maintenance program focused on electric motor testing: covering people & process engagement, proper tooling, realistic scope, visual and electrical checks (resistance/impedance, insulation, wiring, terminations, grounding), regular scheduling, and avoiding reactive‑maintenance pitfalls.", "datePublished": "2022-08-09", "dateModified": "2022-08-09", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/checklist-for-implementing-an-electrical-preventative-maintenance-program-electric-motor-testing", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/checklist-for-implementing-an-electrical-preventative-maintenance-program-electric-motor-testing", "keywords": [ "electrical preventative maintenance", "motor testing", "electric motor maintenance", "preventative maintenance checklist", "motor reliability", "insulation testing", "resistance testing", "impedance testing", "maintenance program implementation", "asset management" ], "articleSection": "Motor Reliability & Maintenance", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "xpath": [ "/html/head/title", "//h1", "//p" ] } } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/electric-motors-failures" }, "headline": "Electric Motors Failures", "description": "Overview of common failure modes in electric motors — including data from studies showing motor bearing and winding defects, especially on motors connected to variable‑speed drives — and recommendations for electrical maintenance programmes and motor circuit analysis to detect defects early.", "datePublished": "2023-07-24", "dateModified": "2023-07-24", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/electric-motors-failures", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/electric-motors-failures", "keywords": [ "electric motors failures", "motor defects", "bearing defects", "winding defects", "variable speed drive motors", "motor reliability", "motor circuit analysis", "preventive maintenance", "drive related failures", "industrial motor maintenance" ], "articleSection": "Motor Reliability & Maintenance", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "xpath": [ "/html/head/title", "//h1", "//p" ] } } { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/stop-bearing-fluting-currents-at-the-source" }, "headline": "Stop Bearing Fluting Currents at the Source", "description": "Explains how high‑frequency bearing currents from variable‑speed drives (VFDs) cause bearing fluting, insulation and lubrication damage — and how proper grounding plus installation of EMF cores effectively reduces harmful currents by over 99%, protecting motor bearings, lubrication and insulation.", "datePublished": "2022-08-06", "dateModified": "2022-08-06", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "3Phi Reliability", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/images/logo.png" } }, "url": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/stop-bearing-fluting-currents-at-the-source", "image": "https://www.3phi-reliability.com/blog/stop-bearing-fluting-currents-at-the-source", "keywords": [ "bearing fluting", "bearing currents", "variable speed drive", "VFD", "EMF cores", "motor insulation", "motor lubrication", "motor reliability", "electrical grounding", "industrial motor maintenance" ], "articleSection": "Motor Reliability & Maintenance", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "xpath": [ "/html/head/title", "//h1", "//p" ] } }
Search