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What Is Soft Starting? Simple Explanation for Electrical Engineers

popeye21834
popeye21834
Published January 1, 1970
What Is Soft Starting? Simple Explanation for Electrical Engineers
Ref: Plant Equipment Specification • ISHRAE / ASHRAE Standards MEP Technical Asset

When the electric motor starts directly, it takes up a very high current. This inrush current will probably damage equipment, trip breakers, and reduce motor life. To avoid this problem, engineers use something called soft starting.

The soft start limits the current and torque of the motor at the time of starting. Instead of giving full voltage in an instant, it increases the voltage gradually. Because of this, the motor starts smoothly and safely.

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popeye21834

popeye21834

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Chartered Senior MEP Engineer & Review Board Specialist with extensive design, testing, and commissioning field experience across commercial and industrial infrastructure.

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