Induction Motor Starting Analysis and Start Aided Device Comparison using ETAP

Abstract

The starting period of induction motor is characterized with high starting current and the bus on which the motor is feeding from experiences voltage dip, this causes some problems to loads connected to that particular bus. Different techniques are used to either reduce the motor in-rush starting current or the bus voltage dip or both. Four different methods are considered in this paper using ETAP simulations and the mode of comparison are the starting current; reductions in bus voltage dip, starting torque, and energy savings. However, the paper did not state that any method is preferred over the other, it only points out the characteristics of the various methods, the user is to make his starting aid choice based on what he wants to achieve.