AC single phase induction motors are classified by their start and run characteristics. An auxiliary starter winding is placed at right angles to the main stator winding in order to create a magnetic field. The current moving through each winding is out of phase by 90 degrees. This is called phase differential. After the motor has reached approximately 75% of operating speed, the auxiliary winding is disconnected from the circuit by a centrifugal switch.
Capacitor start / induction run motors are similar in construction to split phase motors. The major difference is the use of a capacitor connected in series to start windings to maximize starting torque.
The capacitor is mounted either at the top or side of the motor. A normally closed centrifugal switch is located between the capacitor and the start winding. This switch opens when the motor has reached about 75 percent of its operating speed.
Capacitors in induction run motors enable them to handle heavier start loads by strengthening the magnetic field of the start windings. These loads might include refrigerators, compressors, elevators, and augers. The size of capacitors used in these types of applications ranges from 1/6 to 10 horsepower. High starting torque designs also require high starting currents and high breakdown torque.
Capacitor start / induction run motors typically deliver 250 to 350 percent of full load torque when starting. Motors of this design are used in compressors and other types of industrial, commercial, and farm equipment.
Capacitor start induction run motors of moderate torque values are used on applications that require less than 175 percent of the full load. These are used with lighter loads like fans, blowers, and small pumps.