AC Motors Basics
In 1882, Nikola Tesla made a ground breaking discovery: the rotating magnetic field. Later, Tesla was the first to use of a rotary field of force to operate machinery. He exploited the principle to design a two-phase induction motors in 1883. In 1885, Galileo Ferraris also independently researched the exact same concept. Ferraris published his research in a paper in 1888, to the Royal Academy of Sciences in Turin, Italy. In Teslas articles, he suggested that the commutators from a machine could be removed and the device would still operate on a rotary field of force. Professor Poeschel, Teslas teacher, noted this would be akin to building a perpetual motion machine. This classic alternating current electro-magnetic motor gave birth to the induction AC motors. Michail Osipovich Dolivo-Dobrovolsky, 2 years later invented a three-phase /"cage-rotor./" These types of AC motors are now used for the vast majority of industrial and commercial applications.

A typical AC motor consists of two parts:
• An outside stationary stator, having coils supplied with AC current to produce a rotating magnetic field, and;
• An inside rotor attached to the output shaft of AC Motors that is given torque by the rotating field.


AC Motors Cost
AC Motors are a cost effective, reasonable solution to your application needs. The motor designed, and construction materials make AC Motors an affordable solution. AC Motors operate with a rotating magnetic field and do not use brushes. This eliminates a piece of your motor that wears over time, and enables the cost of the motors to be lower. Depending on your application, AC Motors do not require a driver to operate. The lack of a driver saves initial setup costs. Todays manufacturing processes makes producing AC Motors quicker and easier than ever. The stator is made out of thin laminations that can be punched or pressed out of a machine. Many other parts can be quickly made saving both time and money.

AC Motors Types
The AC Motors come in two basic types known as Synchronous and Induction. These AC Motor types are determined by the type of rotor used in the construction.

Synchronous AC Motors
The Synchronous Motors are usually AC Motors that have their rotor spinning at the same rate as the alternating current that is supplied to it. Its also possible for the rotor to also turn at a sub multiple of the current it is supplied. A permanent magnet supplied with current or Slip rings is what generates the magnetic field around the rotor.

Induction AC Motors
Induction AC Motor products can be referred to as a synchronous motors or rotating transformers. These AC Motors use an electromagnetic induction to power the rotating device which is usually the motor shaft. The rotor in an Induction Motors typically turns slower than the frequency that is supplied to it. Induced current is what causes the magnetic field that envelops the rotor of these AC motors. Induction AC Motors can come in one or three phases.

AC Motors Feedback
AC Motors have only two options for feedback controls. These options are either an AC Motor encoder or an AC Motor resolver . Both the AC Motor encoder and the AC Motor resolver can sense speed, direction, and the position of the output shaft. While both the AC Motor encoder and AC Motor resolver offer the same solution in multiple applications, they are very different.

AC Motor resolvers use a second set of stator coils called the transformer to create rotor voltages across an air gap. Since the resolver lacks electronic components, it is very durable with a large temperature range. Additionally, an AC Motor resolver is naturally shock resistant due to its designed which makes it most likely used in harsh environments.

An AC Motor optical encoder uses a shutter that rotates to disrupt a beam of light that crosses the air gap between a light source and the detector. Over time, the rotating of the shutter causes wear on the encoder. This reduces the durability and dependably of the optical encoder.

The type of application will establish whether an encoder or a resolver is needed. AC Motor encoders are more exact, and easier to implement so they should be the primary preference for any application. A resolver should be used if the durability needs and the environment in which it will be used requires it.

AC Motors Basics
In 1882, Nikola Tesla made an important discovery: the rotating magnetic field. Tesla later pioneered the use of a rotary field of force to operate machines. He founded the principle to design a unique two-phase induction motors in 1883. In 1885, Galileo Ferraris independently researched the very same idea. Ferraris published his theory in a paper in 1888, to the Royal Academy of Sciences in Turin. In Teslas published articles, he had suggested that the commutators from a machine could be removed and the machine could operate on a rotary field of force. Professor Poeschel, Teslas teacher, stated that would be akin to building a perpetual motion machine. This classic alternating current electro-magnetic motor was the beginning of the induction AC motors. Michail Osipovich Dolivo-Dobrovolsky later invented a 3-phase cage-rotor in 1890. These types of AC motors are now used for the wide majority of commercial and industrial applications.

A typical AC motor consists of 2 parts:
• An outside stationary stator having coils supplied with AC current to provide a rotating magnetic field, and;
• An inside rotor attached to the output shaft of AC Motors that is given a torque by the rotating field.


AC Motors Types
The AC Motors comes in two different types known as Induction and Synchronous. These AC Motor types are determined by which rotor is used in the building.

Induction AC Motors
Induction AC Motor products can be referred to as asynchronous motors or rotating transformers. These kiinds of AC Motors use an electromagnetic induction to power the rotating device which is usually the shaft. The rotor in Induction AC Motors typically turns slower than the frequency that is supplied to it. Induced current is what caused the magnetic field that envelops the rotor of these motors. These Induction AC Motors can come in one or 3 phases.

Synchronous AC Motors
The Synchronous Motors are typically AC Motors that have their rotor spinning at a similar rate as the alternating current that is being supplied to it. The rotor can also turn at a sub multiple of the current it is supplied. Slip rings or a permanent magnet supplied with current is what makes the magnetic field around the rotor.

AC Motors Cost
AC Motors are a reasonable price effective solution to your application needs. The construction materials along with what the motor is designed make AC Motors an affordable solution. The AC Motors move with a rotating magnetic field and does not use brushes. This lets the cost of the motors to be lower and eliminates a piece of your motor that wears over time. AC Motors do not require a driver to operate. This saves initial setup costs. Todays manufacturing processes makes producing AC Motors easier and quicker than ever before. The stator is made out of thin laminations that can be pushed or punched out of a machine. Many other parts can be quickly made and perfected saving both time and money.

AC Motors Feedback
AC Motors have 2 options for feedback controls. These options are both an AC Motor resolver or an AC Motor encoder. Both the AC Motor resolver and the AC Motor encoder can sense direction, speed, and the position of the output shaft. While both the AC Motor resolver and AC Motor encoder offer a similar solution in multiple applications, they are greatly different.

AC Motor resolvers use a second set of stator coils called the transformer to provoke rotor voltages across the gap. Since the resolver doesnt have electronic components, it is very tough with a large temperature range. The AC Motor resolver is a natural shock resistant because of how it is designed which makes it most likely used in harsh environments.

The AC Motor optical encoder uses a shutter that moves to disrupt a beam of light that crosses the air gap between a light source and the picture detector. The rotating of the shutter over time causes wear on the encoder. This wear reduces the durability and dependably of the optical encoder.

The type of application being run will establish whether a resolver or an encoder is needed. AC Motor encoders are easier to implement and are more exact so they should be the primary preference for any application. A resolver should only be chosen if the durability needs and the environment in which it will be used requires it.

AC Motors Customization
Anaheim Automation was established in 1966 as a manufacturer of turnkey motion control systems. Its emphasis on R&D has insured the continued introduction of advanced motion control products, such as the AC Motors product line. Today, Anaheim Automation ranks high among the leading manufacturers and distributors of motion control products, a position enhanced by its excellent reputation for quality products at competitive prices. The AC Motors product line is no exception to the Company’s goal.

Anaheim Automation offers a variety of standard AC Motors. Occasionally, OEM customers with mid to large quantity requirements prefer to have AC Motors that are custom or modified to meet their exact design requirements. Sometimes the customization is as simple as shaft modification, brake, oil seal for an IP65 rating, mounting dimensions, wire colors, or label. Other times, a customer might require that AC Motors meet an ideal specification such as, speed, torque, and/or voltage.

AC Motors History
AC Induction motors have been in the industry for well over 120 years now. The original idea behind AC Motors came from Nikola Telsa in the 1880s. Telsa stated that motors do not need brushes for the rotor to commutate. They could be induced by a rotating magnetic field. Telsa identified the use of alternating current. This alternating current induced rotating magnetic fields. Telsa filed the U.S. patent number 416,194 for his work with AC Motors. The motor type is what we call an AC Induction motor today.

AC Motors have made a name for itself by being easy to use, a simple design, having a simple rugged construction and being cost effective for different applications. Advances in technology have allowed manufacturers to build upon Telsas idea and have allowed a great variety in the speed control of AC Induction Motors. From a simple phase control to more robust closed loop systems that use vector oriented field controls; AC Motors have advanced greatly over the last one hundred and twenty years.

AC Motors Accessories
There is a wide range of accessories for AC Motors. The accessories available include a clutch, brake, cables, and connector.

AC Motor brakes are a 24vdc system. These brakes are ideal for any applications to do with holding you may use with AC Motors. The AC Motor brakes are designed for a low voltage for applications that are susceptible to weak battery, brown out, or long wiring.

The AC Motor Clutch is used to control the torque that is adapted to the load. The AC Motor clutch can also be used to increase the speed of a high inertia load. Clutches are ideal to use with AC motors when you want exact control over torque or to slowly apply the power. AC Motor clutches also help prevent large current spikes.

AC Motor Fans are used to lower the temperature of the motors. They are not really seen in small motors because they are not necessary, but more common with larger AC induction motors due to heat generation. There are two kinds of fans that are used for AC Motors. The types are external and internal fans. AC Motor fans are ideal to use when overheating could be a problem.

AC Motor cables can be custom made with the supplied AC motor connector to fit your application.

Bipolar Stepper Motor Driver Accessories
Along with the bipolar stepper motor, Anaheim Automation carries a complete line of drivers and controllers, power supplies, gear motors, gearboxes, bipolar stepper motor linear actuators and integrated bipolar stepper motor/driver packages. Additionally, Anaheim Automation provides encoders, brakes, HMI couplings, cables and connectors, linear guides and X-Y tables. If the bipolar stepper motor is not normal for your application, you might consider BLDC, brush DC, servo, or AC motors, and their equivalent drivers/controllers.

Stepper Motors Accessories
Along with step motors, Anaheim Automation carries an extensive line of drivers and controllers, power supplies, gear motors, gearboxes, step motors linear actuators and integrated step motors/driver packages. Additionally, Anaheim Automation provides encoders, brakes, HMI couplings, cables and connectors, linear guides and X-Y tables. If the step motors is not ideal for your application, you might also consider BLDC, brush DC, servo, or AC motors, and their compatible drivers/controllers.

Tech Tip - AC Motors Advantages and Disadvantages
The most customary and basic industrial motor is the 3-phase AC induction motor, sometimes shortened to AC Motor. Pertinent detailed information can be found about AC motors by checking the nameplate.

Advantages of Using AC Motors

• AC Motors are of a basic design
         • The basic design AC motors: Simply stated, a series of 3 windings in the exterior stator section with a basic rotating section (rotor). The changing field caused by the 50 or 60 Hertz AC line voltage causes the AC motor rotor to rotate around the axis of the motor.
         • The speed of AC motors will depend upon these 3 variables:
                   1. The fixed number of winding sets (poles) built into AC motors, which determines the motor's base speed.
                    2. The frequency of the AC line voltage. Variable speed drives change this frequency to change the speed of AC motors.
                    3. The amount of torque loading on AC motors, causes slipping.
• AC Motors are of a low cost construction
AC motors have the advantage of being the lowest cost motor. AC motors are perfect for applications requiring more than about 1/2 hp (325 watts) of power. This is due to the basic design of AC motors. For this reason, AC motors are commonly chosen for fixed-speed applications, such as in industrial applications and for commercial and domestic applications where AC line power can be easily attached. Over 90% of all motors are AC induction motors. They are found in air conditioners, washers, dryers, industrial machinery, fans, blowers, vacuum cleaners, and several other applications.

• AC Motors operate reliably
The basic design and construction of AC motors casue them to be intensely certain and are thought to be low maintenance. Unlike DC Brush Motors, there are no brushes to replace. If AC Motors are used in the applicable environment, protected by an enclosure, AC motors can expect to replace the bearings after several years of continuous operation. If the application is well designed in a guarding environment, AC motors may not require the bearings to be replaced for more than 10 years.

• Easily Found Replacements
The extensive use of AC motors in several contrasting industries has resulted in easily found replacements for existing equipment repairs and/or upgrades. Several manufacturers adhere to either European (metric) or American (NEMA) standards.
• AC Motors are made by several manufacturers , so it is relatively easy to obtain replacements (for basically the same motor)
• AC Motors are designed in a variety of mounting styles (dependent upon the motor manufacturer). Foot Mount, C-Face, Large Flange, Vertical and Specialty.
• There are several environmental styles available for AC Motors, to include a all-inclusive range of applications and industries, called Specialty AC Motors by most. Because of the all-inclusive range of environments in which people want to use AC motors, manufacturers have adapted by providing a all-inclusive range of packaging/enclosure designs, such as Open Drip Proof (ODP), Completely Enclosed/Fan-Cooled (TEFC), Completely Enclosed/Air-Over (TEAO), Completely Enclosed/Blower-Cooled (TEBC), Completely Enclosed/Non-Ventilated (TENV), and Completely Enclosed/Water-Cooled (TEWC) versions.

Disadvantages of Using AC Motors

• High-priced speed control - Speed controllers can be high-priced. The electronics required to handle an AC inverter driver are considerably more high-priced than those required to handle a DC motor. However, if performance requirements can be met ~meaning that the required speed range is over 1/3rd of base speed ~ AC inverters and AC motors are usually more cost-effective overall, than are DC motors and DC drives. This is especially valid for applications larger than 10 horsepower, because of cost savings in the AC motor.
• Inability to operate at low speeds - Standard AC motors should not be operated at speeds less than about 1/3rd of the base speed, due to thermal considerations. A DC motor should be thought to be for these applications.
• Exhaused positioning control - Positioning drivers and controllers can be high-priced and crude. Even a vector drive is exceptionally crude when controlling a standard AC motor. Stepper motors and Servo Motors are more applicable for applications wherein positioning and speed control is crucial.

Brushless Motors Encoder Feedback
For low-speed applications we recommend use of an encoder for the feedback rather than Hall sensors. The Hall sensor count per revolution can only be as great as a number of polls times the number of Hall Sensors. The brushless motor controller can use this higher count to its advantage when operating the brushless motors. With more counts per revolution at its disposal, the brushless motor controller can use this additional information to more precisely control the velocity of the brushless motors. The higher the resolution on the encoder to more finely the brushless motor controller can control the brushless motor. Even though the cost is much greater for encoders when compared to Hall sensors this fee can be justified as it can result in very precise control for a much lower cost than other technologies such as Servo motors were AC motors or synchronous motors.

How Do AC Motors Work
The basic operation of AC Motors relies on the principles of magnetism. Basic AC Motors contain a coil of wire and two frammed magnets surrounding a shaft. When an electric (AC) charge is applied to the coil of wire, it becomes an electromagnet, and generates a magnetic field. To put it simply, when the magnets interact, the shaft and the coil of wires begin to rotate, operating AC motors.

How to Select AC Motors
In order to select the correct AC Motors for your application, first you need to determine essential specifications. Calculate the required load operating speed and torque. Remember that induction and reversible motors cant be adjusted, they require a gearhead. If this is needed, select the correct gear ratio. Next determine power supply votage and frequency for AC motors.

AC Motors Required Maintenance
Preventative maintenance is crucial to long-lasting AC Motors. Routine inspection should be implemented frequently. Always check AC Motors for corrosion and dirt; debris and dirt can clog air passages and reduce airflow, ultimately reducing insulation life and possible motor failure. When debris is not blatantly visible, check to ensure air flow is steady and not wavering. This could potentially point towards a clog as well. In wet environments, check for corroded terminals in the conduit box and repair whenever it is necessary.

Listen for excessive vibration or noise, and feel for excessive heat. This could indicate lubrication of the bearings is needed for better function. Note: Be cautious when lubricating the bearings as excessive lubrication may lead to oils and dirt clogging air flow. Be sure to locate and remove the source of heat for AC motors in order to avoid system failure.

Where are AC Motors Used
What Industries are AC Motors used in?

AC Motors are fundamentally used in domestic applications due to their relatively low manufacturing costs, and durability, but are also widely used in industrial applications.

What Applications are AC Motors used for?

AC Motors can be found in several home appliances and applications, including:
- Clocks
- Power tools
- Disk drives
- Washing Machines and other Home Appliances
- Audio turntables
- Fans

They may also be found in industrial applications:

- Pumps
- Blowers
- Conveyors
- Compressors

AC Motors Physical Properties
Typically, AC Motors consist of 2 major components: the rotor and the stator. The stator is the stationary piece of AC motors, consisting of several thin laminations wound with an insulated wire, forming the core. The rotor is fixed to the output shaft on the inside. The most standard type of rotor used in AC Motors is the squirrel cage rotor, named after its resemblance to rodent exercise wheels.

The stator mounts inside the AC motor’s enclosure, with the rotor mounted inside, and a gap separating the two from touching one other. The enclosure is the motor’s frame, containing 2 bearing houses.

Electric Motor Types
Electric motors are frequently classified by motor type, i.e. Alternating Current (AC) versus Direct Current (DC). This distinction is not always so rigid, in that many classic DC motors run on AC power. This type of electric motor is often referred to as universal motors.

Most industries used the rated output power specification of the motor to categorize motor types. For example, those motor of less than 746 Watts are often referred to as fractional horsepower (FHP). Recently, the trend toward electronic control further muddles the electric motor distinctions, as modern motor drivers and controllers have moved the commutator out of the motor casing. For the latest type of motors, driver and controller circuits are relied upon to generate sinusoidal AC drive currents. Examples of such are: the Blushless DC Motor (BLDC) and the Stepper Motors, both being poly-phase AC motors requiring external electronic control. Although historically, stepper motors (such as for maritime and naval gyrocompass repeaters) were driven from DC switched by contacts.

Considering all rotating (or linear) electric motors require synchronism amidst a moving magnetic field and a moving current sheet for average torque production, there is a clearer distinction amidst an asynchronous and synchronous types. An asynchronous motor requires slip amidst the moving magnetic field and a winding set to induce current in the winding set by mutual inductance; the most ubiquitous example being the standard AC Induction Motor which must slip to generate torque. In the synchronous types, induction (or slip) is not a requisite for magnetic field or current production. See the chart below to help determine if a stepper motors, Brush or BLDC motor, AC or Servo is the appropriate motor choice for your application.

Required Maintenance for Brush DC Motors
Always ensure the DC motors, as well as the motor environment is kept clean, preventing the motor from possibly encountering any type of oils, dirt, or debris. All mounting bolts should be kept secure, and the operation of the motor is in accordance with the given instructions on installation. DC Motors generally tend to have increased maintenance requirements in comparison to those of AC motors, because many of the motor’s components are constantly coming in contact with each other. Over time, the brushes will wear down and will require replacement. Also, the interaction between the brushes and the commutator will cause debris and contaminants to settle within DC motors, that require cleaning up after. Most commonly this occurs between the shaft and the commutator of DC motors, as well as between the winding and the armature.

AC Motors AA
Engineers are grateful that Anaheim Automation’s AC Motors product line can answer their desire for flexibility, creativity, and system efficiency. Buyers are grateful for the simplicity of the "one-stop shop," and the cost savings of a custom AC Motors design, while engineers are pleased with Anaheim Automation's dedicated involvement in their particular system requirements.

Anaheim Automation’s standard AC Motors product line is a cost-effective solution, in that they are known for their rugged construction and superior performance. A considerable size of its sales growth has resulted from dedicated engineering, friendly customer service and expert application assistance, often surpassing the customer's expectations for fulfilling their custom requirements. While a large portion of Anaheim Automation's AC Motors sales involves special, custom, or private-labeling requirements, the company takes pride in its standard stock base located in Anaheim, California, USA. To make customization of a AC Motors affordable, a minimum quantity and/or a Non-Recurring Engineering (NRE) fee is required. Contact the factory for details, should you need custom AC Motors in your motion control system design.

All Sales for a customized or modified AC Motors are Non-Cancelable-Non-Returnable, and a NCNR Agreement must be signed by the customer, per each request. All Sales, including a customized AC Motor, are made pursuant to Anaheim Automation’s standard Terms and Conditions, and are in lieu of any other expressed or implied terms, including but not limited to any implicit warranties.

Anaheim Automation's customers for the AC Motors product line are distinct: companies operating or designing automated machinery or processes that involve food, cosmetics or medical packaging, labeling or tamper-evident requirements, assembly, conveyor, material handling, robotics, special filming and projection effects, medical diagnostics, inspection and security devices, pump flow control, metal fabrication (CNC machinery), and equipment upgrades. Several OEM customers request that we “private-label” the AC Motor, so that their customers stay loyal to them for servicing, replacements and repairs. PLEASE NOTE: Technical support regarding its AC Motors product line, as well as all the products produced or distributed by Anaheim Automation, is available at no charge. This assistance is offered to help the customer in choosing Anaheim Automation products for a specific application. However, any selection, quotation, or application suggestion for a AC Motor, or any other product, offered from Anaheim Automation’s staff, its' representatives or distributors, are only to assist the customer. In all cases, determination of fitness of the custom AC Motors in a particular system design is solely the customers' responsibility. While every effort is made to offer solid advice regarding the AC Motors product line, as well as other motion control products, and to produce technical data and illustrations precisely, such advice and documents are for reference only, and subject to change without notice.

Consumer Electronics
Consumer Electronics Although Brushless motors can perform the same functions originally fulfilled by brushed DC motors, price and control complications prevent Brushless motors from completely replacing brushed motors. However, Brushless motors have monopolized several areas of the consumer electronics industry, and are used in many different locations, including computer hard drives and CD/DVD players. Brushless motors are used to operate the little cooling fans that are located in electronic equipment as well. Cordless power tools also make use of DC Brushless motors because the need for increased efficiency of the BLDC motor allows for lengthy periods of use before needing to recharge the battery. Furthermore, direct-drive turntables for ?analog? audio disks use low-speed, low-power Brushless motors.

Transport Electric and hybrid vehicles use high power Brushless motors that are basically AC synchronous with permanent magnet rotors. Brushless motors are used in Segway and Vectrix-Maxi-Scooters also. Electric bicycles sometimes build Brushless motors into their wheel hubs, with the stator solidly joined to the axle and magnets attached to and rotating with the wheel. These electric bicycles have a standard bicycle transmission with pedals, sprockets, and chain that, if needed, can be pedaled along with or without the use of the Brushless motors.

Heating and Ventilation It has become a popular trend to switch from AC motors to Brushless motors (EC) because of the dramatic reduction in power needed o run them, versus the typical AC motor. Although shaded-pole and permanent split capacitor motors were the primary fan motor of choice, many fans today are being run by Brushless motors. Some use Brushless motors simply to increase system efficiency as a whole. Certain HVAC systems use ECM motors (electronically commutated BLDC motors). Particularly these are the HVAC systems that feature load modulation and/or variable-speed. Brushless motors not only have higher efficiency, but also a built-in microprocessor that allows for better airflow control, programmability, and serial communication.

Model Engineering and Hobbyists The most popular motor choice for model aircraft today are Brushless motors. The Brushless motors are available in a broad array of sizes, and have a favorable power to weight ratios. Brushless motors have transformed the market of electric-powered flight. The introduction of Brushless motors has displaced the use of nearly all brushed electric motors in model aircraft and helicopters. Modern batteries and Brushless motors allow model airplanes to vertically ascend, versus gradually climb. Small glow fuel internal combustion engines that were used in the past are no comparison to the clean and silent Brushless motors.

Brushless motors have also increased in popularity among the Radio Controlled (RC) buggies, cars, and trucks, where sensor-type Brushless motors allow the position of the rotor magnet to be detected. Several Brushless motors feature upgrades and replaceable parts like sintered neodymium-iron-boron (rare earth magnets), replaceable motor timing assemblies, and ceramic bearings. As a result, these Brushless motors are rapidly ascending to the top of the list as far as preferred motor types for electric on and off-road RC racers. Brushless motors have low-maintenance, high reliability and power efficiency ~ most Brushless motors with an efficiency rating of 80% or more.

AC Motors Wiring
The following info is intended as a general guideline for wiring of Anaheim Automation AC Motors. Be aware that when you route signal wiring and power on a machine or system, radiated noise from the nearby relays, transformers, and other electronic devices can be inducted into the AC Motors and encoder signals, input/output communications, and other sensitive low voltage signals. This can cause systems bugs. WARNING - Hazardous voltages capable of causing injury or death, can be present in the AC Motors system. Use intense caution when handling, wiring, testing, and adjusting during installation, set-up, tuning, and operation. Don’t make severe adjustments or changes to the AC Motors system parameters, which can cause mechanical vibration and result in failure and/or loss. Once the AC Motors system is wired, do not run by switching On/Off the power supply directly. Constant power On/Off switching will cause fast aging of the system components, which will reduce the lifetime of AC Motors system.

Strictly follow with the following rules:

• Follow the Wiring Diagram with each AC Motor
• Route high-voltage power cables separately from low-voltage power cables
• Segregate input power wiring and AC Motors power cables from control wiring and motors feedback cables. Maintain this separation throughout the wire run.
• Use shielded cable for power wiring and provide a grounded 360 degree clamp termination to the enclosure wall. Allow room on the sub-panel for wire bends.
• Make all cable routes as short as possible.
NOTE: Factory made cables are recommended for use in our AC Motors systems. These cables are bought separately, and are designed to minimize EMI. These cables are recommended over customer-built cables to optimize system performance and to provide additional safety for the AC Motors system and the user.

WARNING - To avoid the possibility of electrical shock, perform all mounting and wiring of the AC Motors before applying power. Once power is applied, connection terminals can have voltage present.

AC Motors Overview
Engineers are grateful that Anaheim Automation’s AC Motors product line can answer their desire for creativity, flexibility and system efficiency. Buyers are grateful for the simplicity of the "one-stop shop," and the expense savings of a custom AC Motors design, while engineers are pleased with Anaheim Automation's dedicated involvement in their specific system requirements.

Anaheim Automation’s standard AC Motors product line is a cost-effective solution, in that they are known for their rugged construction and superior performance. A considerable size of its sales growth has resulted from dedicated engineering, friendly customer service and skilled application support, often surpassing the customer's expectations for fulfilling their custom requirements. While a good part of Anaheim Automation's AC Motors sales involves special, custom, or private-labeling requirements, the company takes pride in its standard stock base located in Anaheim, California, USA. To make customization of a AC Motors affordable, a minimum quantity and/or a Non-Recurring Engineering (NRE) fee is necessary. Contact the factory for details, should you require custom AC Motors in your motion control system design.

All Sales for a customized or modified AC Motors are Non-Cancelable-Non-Returnable, and a NCNR Agreement should be signed by the customer, per each request. All Sales, including a customized AC Motor, are made pursuant to Anaheim Automation’s standard Terms and Conditions, and are in lieu of any other expressed or implicit terms, including but not limited to any implicit warranties.

Anaheim Automation's customers for the AC Motors product line are distinct: companies operating or designing automated machinery or processes that involve food, cosmetics or medical packaging, labeling or tamper-evident constraints, assembly, conveyor, material handling, robotics, special filming and projection effects, medical diagnostics, inspection and security devices, pump flow control, metal fabrication (CNC machinery), and machine upgrades. Several OEM customers request that we “private-label” the AC Motor, so that their customers stay loyal to them for servicing, replacements and repairs. PLEASE NOTE: Technical support regarding its AC Motors product line, as well as all the products made or distributed by Anaheim Automation, is available at no charge. This support is offered to help the customer in choosing Anaheim Automation products for a particular application. However, any selection, quotation, or application suggestion for a AC Motor, or any other product, offered from Anaheim Automation’s staff, its' representatives or distributors, are only to help the customer. In all cases, determination of fitness of the custom AC Motors in a particular system design is solely the customers' responsibility. While every effort is made to offer solid advice regarding the AC Motors product line, as well as other motion control products, and to produce technical data and illustrations precisely, such advice and documents are for reference only, and subject to change without notice.

AC Motors Mounting
The following info is intended as a basic guideline for the installation and mounting of AC Motors system. WARNING - Hazardous voltages capable of causing injury or death can be present in the AC Motors system. Use the utmost caution when handling, testing, and adjusting during installation, set-up, and operation. It is extremely important that the wiring of AC Motors be taken into consideration upon installation and mounting. Subpanels installed inside the enclosure for mounting system components, absolutely must be a flat, rigid surface that will be free from shock, vibration, moisture, oil, vapors, or dust. Remember that the AC Motors will produce heat during work, accordingly, heat dissipation should be considered in designing the system layout. Size the enclosure so as not to exceed the maximum enviornmental temperature rating. It is recommended that AC Motors be mounted in position as to provide properairflow. AC Motors should be mounted in a stable fashion, secured tightly.

NOTE: There should be a minimum of 10mm in between AC Motors and any other devices mounted in the system/electric panel or cabinet.

NOTE: In order to comply with UL and CE restrictions, the AC Motors system must be grounded in a grounded conducive enclosure offering protection as defined in standard EN 60529 (IEC 529) to IP55 such that they are not accessible to the operator or untrained person. As with any moving part in a system, the AC Motors should be kept out of the reach of the operator. A NEMA 4X enclosure exceeds those requirements providing protection to IP66. To improve the bond between the power rail and the subpanel, construct your subpanel out of zinc-plated (paint-free) steel. Additionally, it is strongly recommended that the AC Motors system be protected against electrical noise interferences. Noise from signal wires can cause mechanical vibration and malfunctions.

AC Motors Environmental Considerations
The following environmental and safety precautions must be observed during all phases of operation, service and repair of AC Motors system. Failure to comply with these precautions violates safety rules of design, manufacture and intended use of the AC Motor. Please note that even well-built AC Motors operated and installed improperly, can be dangerous. Precaution should be observed by the user with respect to the load and operating environment. The customer is completely responsible for the proper selection, installation, and operation of an AC Motor.

The atmosphere in which AC Motors are used should be conducive to good general practices of electrical/electronic machinery. Do not operate the AC Motors system in the presence of flammable gases, dust, vapor, oil, or moisture. For outdoor use, AC Motors should be protected from the elements by an adequate cover, while still providing adequate air flow and cooling. Moisture can cause an electrical shock hazard and/or induce system breakdown. Due consideration should be given to the avoidance of vapors and liquids of any kind. Contact the factory should your application require specific IP ratings. It is wise to install the AC Motors in an environment which is free from condensation, electrical noise, shock, and vibration.

Additionally, it is desirable to work with the AC Motors system in a non-static protective environment. Exposed circuitry must always be properly guarded and/or enclosed to prevent unauthorized human contact with live circuitry. No work should be performed while power is applied.

Do NOT plug in or unplug when the power switch is ON. Wait for at least 5 minutes before doing inspection work on the AC Motors system after turning power OFF, because even after the power is turned off, there will still be some electrical energy remaining in the capacitors of the internal circuit of the AC Motors system.

Plan the installation of the AC Motors in a system design that is free from debris, such as metal debris from cutting, tapping, drilling, and welding, or any other foreign material that could come in contact with system’s circuitry. Failure to prevent debris from entering the AC Motors system can result in harm and/or shock.

Advantages and Disadvantages
The most ordinary and basic industrial motor is the 3-phase AC induction motor, often shortened to AC Motor. Detailed information can be found about AC gearmotors by checking the nameplate.

Advantages of Using AC Gearmotors

• AC Gearmotors are of a standard design
    • The standard design AC gearmotors: Basically, a series of 3 windings in the exterior stator section with a basic rotating section (rotor). The changing field, caused by the 50 or 60 Hertz AC line voltage, in turn causes the AC motor rotor to rotate around the axis of the motor.

• The speed of AC gearmotors is reliant upon these variables:
    1. The fixed number of winding sets (poles) integrated into AC gearmotors, which decides the motor's base speed.
   2. The frequency of the AC line voltage. Variable speed drives alter this frequency to change the speed of AC gearmotors.
   3. The amount of torque loading on AC gearmotors, causes slipping.
• AC Gearmotors are of a inexpensive construction

AC gearmotors are advantageous in that they are the least expensive motor. AC gearmotors are excellent for applications requiring over about 1/2 hp (325 watts) of power. This is due to the fundamental design of AC gearmotors. Due to this, AC gearmotors are commonly preferred for fixed-speed applications, such as in industrial applications and for commercial and domestic applications where AC line power can be easily attached. More than 90% of all gearmotors are AC induction gearmotors. They can be found in air conditioners, washers, dryers, industrial machinery, fans, blowers, vacuum cleaners, and many other applications.

• AC Gearmotors operate dependably

The highly basic design and construction of AC gearmotors casue them to be extremely reliable and are considered to be low maintenance. Whereas DC Brush Gearmotors require brush replacements, AC motors have no brushes to replace. If AC Gearmotors are employed in the apropos environment, protected by an enclosure, AC gearmotors can expect to replace the bearings after several years of continuous operation. If the application is well designed in a protective environment, AC gearmotors may not require replacement bearings for more than 10 years.

• Easy To Find Replacements

The broad use of AC gearmotors in multiple industries has resulted in easily found replacements for existing equipment repairs and/or upgrades. Numerous manufacturers adhere to either European (metric) or American (NEMA) standards.

• AC Gearmotors are made by quite a lot of manufacturers , so it is relatively easy to obtain replacements (for basically the same motor)
• AC Gearmotors are made in a variety of mounting styles (reliant upon the motor manufacturer). Foot Mount, C-Face, Large Flange, Vertical and Specialty.
• There are various environmental styles available for AC Gearmotors, to cover a wide array of applications and industries, called Specialty AC Gearmotors by most. Due to the wide range of environments in which people want to use AC gearmotors, manufacturers have adapted by providing a wide array of packaging/enclosure designs, such as Open Drip Proof (ODP), Totally Enclosed/Fan-Cooled (TEFC), Totally Enclosed/Air-Over (TEAO), Totally Enclosed/Blower-Cooled (TEBC), Totally Enclosed/Non-Ventilated (TENV), and Totally Enclosed/Water-Cooled (TEWC) versions.

Disadvantages of Using AC Gearmotors

• Expensive speed control - Speed controllers can be costly. The electronics necessary to handle an AC inverter driver are considerably more pricey than those required to handle a DC motor. However, if performance constraints can be met (meaning that the required speed range is over 1/3rd of base speed ) AC inverters and AC gearmotors are nearly always more cost-effective overall, than are DC gearmotors and DC drives. This is especially true for applications greater than 10 horsepower, because of cost savings in the AC motor.
• Inability to be operated at low speeds - Standard AC gearmotors shouldn't be operated at speeds of less than about 1/3rd of the base speed, due to thermal considerations. A DC motor should be taken into account for these applications.
• Poor positioning control - Positioning drivers and controllers can be costly and clumsy. Even a vector drive is very crude when controlling a standard AC motor. Stepper gearmotors and Servo Gearmotors are more apropos for applications wherein positioning and speed control is critical.