Keeping Current With Electricians

Posted on: 8 March 2022

Motors of all sizes play an integral role in the operation of a wide range of electrical devices. Replacing an electric motor can be costly, so most consumers are happy to find a way to extend the life of a failing electric motor for a period of time.

Rewinding is one option that can restore the function of a failing electric motor. Unfortunately, deciding whether or not your motor might benefit from a rewind can be challenging.

Here are three simple signs that you can watch for when trying to determine when it's time to schedule your electric motor for a rewind in the future.

1. Evidence of Physical Deterioration

One of the easiest ways to tell if your electric motor is in need of a rewind is to complete a visual inspection of all components.

Look for evidence of physical deterioration. You may spot things like rust, burns, or damaged components.

Rewinding motors with these types of deterioration can restore their function and buy you time to save up for the purchase of a new electric motor down the road.

2. Poor Winding Resistance

A professional electrician can easily measure the winding resistance of your electric motor. The manufacturer of the motor will include the optimal winding resistance somewhere on the motor itself.

If the results of testing show that the winding resistance is outside the optimal range, your motor may be suffering from shorted coils that are interfering with the performance of the motor as a whole.

Rewinding is the most cost-effective method of restoring motors that have poor winding resistance.

3. Decreased Insulation Resistance

Almost all of the components within an electric motor can be affected by heat. To prevent heat from damaging these components, each motor is equipped with insulation. The insulation resistance is a measure of the efficacy of the existing insulation.

Decreased insulation resistance can lead to a lack of lubrication that may cause serious component damage within the motor.

The insulation of an electric motor is improved as a result of the rewinding process. Professional electricians can utilize cutting-edge techniques, high-end resins, and insulating tapes throughout the rewinding process to restore and improve the insulation resistance of your electric motor.

Take the time to explore the possibility of rewinding your electric motor instead of replacing it when problems arise.

By monitoring the insulation resistance, winding resistance, and physical condition of your motor, you will be able to accurately determine when rewinding is needed to restore the performance and efficiency of the motor. 

For more information about an electric motor rewind, contact a local electrician.