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Topic: Where are the physical terminals in motor starters?

User: antenna2001, Location: New York

Asked on: Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 2:46 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:55 am EDT

Question: I am trying to study for an employment test. I have ladder and schematic diagrams on how to wire motor starters and they show terminal numbers. I understand the diagrams but I do not have pictures that show where the physical terminal locations are in the actual starter. I neeed to learn NEMA and IEC configurations. Can someone help?

NEMA Configuration

For NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) motor starters, the terminal locations typically follow the numbering convention below: L1, L2, L3

Incoming line terminals


T1, T2, T3

Outgoing motor terminals

11, 12, 13

Internal control wiring terminals (usually not accessible on smaller starters)


21, 22

Start coil terminals

51, 52

Overload relay coil terminals

IEC Configuration


For IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) motor starters, the terminal locations may not follow the same convention as NEMA starters. However, the following general guidelines apply:
L1, L2, L3

Incoming line terminals

T1, T2, T3

Outgoing motor terminals


A1, A2

Start coil terminals

13, 14

Overload relay coil terminals

Physical Terminal Locations


The physical location of the terminals varies depending on the specific motor starter model. However, here are some common locations:
NEMA starters

Terminals are typically located on the front or side of the starter, with the outgoing motor terminals typically on the bottom.

IEC starters

Terminals are typically located on the top or back of the starter, with the incoming line terminals on one side and the outgoing motor terminals on the other side.

Tips for Identifying Terminals
Refer to the manufacturer's documentation

The starter's user manual or technical specifications will typically include a diagram showing the terminal locations.

Inspect the starter housing

Look for labels or markings that indicate the terminal numbers. These may be located near the terminal block or on the starter cover.


Use a multimeter

You can use a multimeter to measure the continuity between the terminals and the internal components of the starter. This can help you identify which terminals are which.

Note:
It is always important to refer to the manufacturer's documentation or instructions for specific information on the terminal locations for a particular motor starter model. Flag for review

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