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