How to Test a 3 Phase Motor

Windings With an Ohmmeter

Every 3 phase motor has six (6) terminals with the supply voltage connected to three
(3) of those terminals. The most common configuration of a three-phase motor is the
Delta (∆) – Star (Wye) configuration with the Delta side connected to supply voltage.
The terminal configuration of a 3 phase motor is shown below:

Terminals Configuration of a 3 Phase Motor

The W2U2V2 terminal set is the star side of the 3 phase motor while the U1VIW1 is
the Delta side of the motor connected to the supply voltage.

The 3 phase motor is a rugged piece of equipment but as with everything man made,
there comes a time when this beautiful piece of machinery fails either due to old age,
misapplication, mal-operation or any other adverse cause.

The most common failure mode of a 3 phase AC motor is burnt winding or shorted
winding leading to the damage of the motor. Often it is required to test the winding
of the 3 phase windings with the aid of a multimeter or ohmmeter to determine
whether the motor is still good or burnt or shorted.

How to Test the Winding of a 3 phase Motor

To determine whether a 3 phase motor is still good or has gone bad, a simple
ohmmeter test across the windings of the motor will reveal its true state of health. As
shown below, the indicated terminal matrix (blue lines) shows the way the windings
of a 3 phase motor should be tested with an Ohmmeter:

How to test the windings of a 3 Phase Motor with an Ohmmeter

The first thing to do before testing the windings of the motor is to remove the links
linking terminals W2U2V2 and the disconnect the motor from supply (L1, L2, L3). A
multimeter terminals placed across this matrix of terminals will indicate the following
readings for a good 3 phase motor:
(a) Terminals W1W2, U1U2, V1V2 will indicate continuity for a good motor
(b) Every other terminal combinations should indicate Open for a good motor
(c) Readings between any of the six (6) terminals and the motor frame signifying
earth
(E) should indicate open for a good motor.

Ohmmeter Readings for a Bad 3 phase Motor

In the case of a burnt or bad 3 phase motor, this matrix of terminals should indicate
the opposite readings for a bad motor:
(a) If any of the terminal combinations W1W2, U1U2, V1V2 should indicate open then
the motor is bad.
(b) If any other terminal combinations should indicate continuity instead of open,
then
the motor is bad.
(c) If the reading between any of the six (6) terminals and motor frame (E) should
indicate continuity, then the motor is dead.
 3 Ways to Troubleshoot AC Motors with a
Circuit Tester
Dec 27, 2019 8:36:17 PM / by Johann Tang

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An AC motor is not working like it's supposed to. What do you do? Before replacing the
motor, here are three ways to start troubleshooting your AC motor with a circuit tester.
AC motors are the easiest type of motors to use. Once power is connected, an AC
motor runs at a certain speed, and stops when the power is disconnected. When an AC
motor does not work, it's usually a power or wiring issue. The trick to identifying the
cause is to isolate potential problems.
What is a Circuit Tester?
 A circuit tester (also known as a multimeter or
electronic measuring instrument that combine
meter, an ohmeter, and an ammeter. A typica
measure voltage, resistance, and current in a

First, Check the Basic Wiring.

When the motor is wired to a power supply but not working, the first thing you should do
is check the wiring and confirm the required components for operation are in good
working condition. Since there could be many components in the power supply circuit
that can affect motor operation, such as relays, switches, or controllers, start with the
most basic circuit as possible. This means connecting the AC motor and capacitor
directly to the AC power supply. Once you confirm that the motor works, then you can
add back the components back. This can help you verify if the components are good or
bad.

TIP: Many AC motor issues are caused by bad components or incorrect wiring. To make troubleshooting easier, isolate t
troubleshooting the most basic circuit first. Once that has been confirmed, then test each individual component as they'
circuit.

3 Things to Test with a Circuit Tester

Here are three ways to help find the cause of an AC motor problem.

1. Compare the applied voltage with the capacitor's terminal voltage.

2. Verify if electricity is being conducted through the extension cable.
3. Verify motor winding resistance.

Now we will show you how to do each measurement, and what it confirms.

TEST 1: Compare Applied Voltage with Capacitor Terminal Voltage

If properly connected, the capacitor terminal voltage should be roughly 1.7 times the
value of the power supply voltage. This confirms if the motor is receiving the proper
voltage.

Using Circuit Tester A as shown in the above diagram, connect the red needle tip to
the exposed portion of the red wire, and connect the black needle tip to the exposed
portion of the black wire (and make sure there is good contact). Confirm that the proper
voltage is received at the motor. Select AC voltage measurement mode (indicated by a
"V"), on the circuit tester before starting. If correctly connected, Circuit Tester A will
show the power supply voltage. For easy calculation, we used a 100 VAC motor in the
example, so 100 V would display on the circuit tester.
Using Circuit Tester B as shown in the above diagram, connect the red needle tip to
the exposed portion of the red wire, and connect the black needle tip to the exposed
portion of the white wire. If properly connected, the circuit tester will show a value that's
about 1.7 times the power supply voltage. In this example, 170 V is measured.
Compare the two measured voltages. The capacitor terminal voltage (red/white) should
be 1.7 times more of the power supply voltage (black/red).
What If I Don't Have a Circuit Tester / Multimeter?
To check whether any capacitor is connected in the circuit, rotate the motor shaft
manually by hand while the power is on. If no capacitor is connected, it will rotate in the
direction in which you apply the force.

REVIEW: Engineering Note: What does a capacitor do?

TEST 2: Verify if Electricity is Conducted Throughout the Cable

A break in the connection of the motor's circuit with its power supply can prevent the
motor from working properly. Doing the following measurement can confirm if a circuit
is closed or open.

Do this with the power off. Using Circuit Tester C and D as shown in the above
diagram to test the continuity of the cables from the motor to the power supply. Use the
black and red needle tips from the circuit tester to connect to the exposed connection
points closest to the motor to the power supply. If there's no break in the circuit, the
circuit tester will beep.

TEST 3: Verify Motor Winding Resistance

By measuring the motor's winding resistance and comparing the values to the motor's
original designed values, the electrical condition of a motor can be verified.
Before measuring, remove all additional components, such as extension cables and
capacitor, from the circuit. Switch the circuit tester to resistance value measurement
mode. Using Circuit Tester E and F in the above diagram, connect to the exposed
portions of the lead wires directly from the motor.
We are once again using a 100 V motor as an example (model: 2IK6A-JA). For this
particular motor, the resistance readings from both Circuit Tester E and F should be 170
ohms. If the winding is broken, the circuit tester will read a value of over several
thousand ohms. If there's an internal short circuit, a value smaller than 170 ohms. For
other motors, please contact the motor manufacturer to see what the designed values
are supposed to be. There is a tolerance of about +/-10% for winding resistance.
What Do I Do If My Motor Does Not Pass These Tests?
When a motor doesn't work, it could be a bad motor, or just a bad component making
the motor look bad. Examples are bad switches, relays, cables, or just the wrong
voltage. Doing these tests would provide valuable hints on what to fix. These are
examples.

If your motor doesn't pass Test 1, check/replace the capacitor or wiring.

If your motor doesn't pass Test 2, check/replace the cable or connector.
If your motor doesn't pass Test 3, replace the motor.

Mechanical issues, such as a damaged ball bearing due to excessive radial or axial
loads, can also cease the operation of a motor. To test this, remove the motor and
gearhead and try to rotate the shaft in both directions. If the motor shaft or the
gearhead shaft feels locked up without any load, then something is not right. An
abnormal noise or friction while turning the shaft could indicate damage or
misalignment. The best thing to do would be to replace the motor and/or gearhead.
Another way to become a better motor troubleshooter is to understand the product
better. Take a look at these related posts to increase your product knowledge of AC
motors (or talk to our technical support engineers).

Troubleshooting Three-Phase Electric

Motors
March 18, 2022 Mike Price Engineering Your Business, Pumps and Water Systems 0

Part 1. Equipment and initial troubleshooting techniques.

By Ed Butts, PE, CPI

This month’s Engineering your Business is the first of a two-part discussion, with the second part
wrapping up in the May issue. It is also the fourth and final part of a series on why and how electric
motors fail and some common troubleshooting techniques for both single- and three-phase motors.

As with all electrical troubleshooting and service procedures—but especially important for three-
phase systems—the first consideration must always be personnel and equipment safety. This
means individuals not fully trained, experienced, and licensed when required for electrical
troubleshooting, repair, and service work should not attempt any troubleshooting or service work.

When conducting this type of work, knowledge of and adherence to the lock out/tag out, arc flash
rules, and recognition and consideration of the motor style, driven system (i.e., process) of the
control system and motor controller type, and potential impacts from shutting down the process must
always be observed.

Required Three-Phase Troubleshooting Equipment

In addition to the typical hand tools, there are essentially four types of instruments needed to
troubleshoot three-phase systems:

 AC voltage meter
 AC ammeter
 Ohmmeter
 Megohmmeter

Several of these functions can be combined into a single meter. The voltage or multimeter, if used,
must be rated, insulated, and capable of measuring the full range of applicable AC voltage.
 Figure 1. Voltage testing of
three-phase electrical system.

However, the greatest accuracy is generally obtained when reading in the midrange of the scale.
Lower voltage (less than 1000 volts AC) meters are often rated for 300, 600, or 1000 volts of AC
power (VAC). Although a 300VAC rated voltmeter will satisfactorily read 120- and 240-volt circuits,
they will obviously be inadequate for 480- or 575-volt circuits.

More than one voltmeter has exploded in the hands of a technician because a 300-volt rated meter
was applied to a 480-volt circuit. Although a 600-volt rated meter will work on a 480-volt circuit, I
recommend procuring and using a 1000-volt rated voltmeter for all low voltage three-phase
troubleshooting, as the higher-rated meter will possess more insulation and be less likely to explode
or fail.

The second meter, an ammeter, is used to measure the current of the motor during operation. This
meter can consist of a rotary dial meter or as an element of a multimeter with an amp clip and plug-
in leads.

Figure 2. Checking continuity of fuses.

Once again, it is imperative the meter is rated for all conceivable ampere ranges it may need to read.
For most motors up to 200 HP, the Amprobe model RS-3 is an excellent and resilient meter for this
work. It possesses several rotary scales as low as 6 amps up to 300 amps. The meter’s clip is small
enough to fit over or between virtually any wire size up to 250 MCM and provides a needle read
rather than an LED or LCD display that are often hard to read in illuminated areas.

A basic analog ohmmeter, such as the Simpson model 372, can be used to measure a motor’s
winding and insulation resistance, but I recommend using an electronic (capacitor) or crank-style
500VDC minimum rated megohmmeter for measuring insulation resistance.

These functions can also be combined into a single multimeter, although I still prefer to stick with the
individual instruments.

Initial Three-Phase Troubleshooting Techniques

Three-phase motors are surprisingly robust and versatile machines. Compared to single-phase
motors that use starting capacitors and switches with two separate and distinct types of windings
and horsepower limitations, three-phase motors operate using three matched windings and are
available in fractional to several thousand horsepower.

As such, three-phase motors will often operate satisfactorily under extreme service conditions and
harsh environments. While troubleshooting a potential issue with a three-phase motor installation,
three initial steps should be conducted in the following order before moving on to the motor itself:

1. If it is an aboveground installation and accessible, check the pump and motor for free-hand
rotation.
2. Verify the incoming power supply and voltage into the motor controller.
3. Check the motor’s design characteristics and the starting and control equipment and control
circuit.

Figure 3. Typical three-phase motor connections.

The first item to quickly check is the rotation of the motor and driven equipment, usually a pump. A
bound (locked up) motor or pump is often the source of a system problem, and it is generally a brief
task to verify free-hand rotation in the case of an aboveground unit.

Verifying the incoming power supply and voltage is an obvious troubleshooting step that should next
be performed on all installations as this is often the only real problem. This condition can consist of a
blown motor or control circuit fuse, tripped circuit breaker, or overload.

Verification of the incoming voltage should be performed, as shown in Figure 1, using line to line
measurements rather than line to ground, as voltage feedback through the controls or magnetic coil
can often result in erroneous and false readings.

Checking fuses can be performed on a deenergized panel by using an Rx1 ohmmeter setting on
each side of the fuse, as shown in Figure 2 (although, for safety, I recommend removing the fuse
and checking its continuity outside of the panel).

In a balanced three-phase system, the line-to-line phase voltages should be equal or very close to
equal. Voltage unbalance or imbalance is a measurement of the inequality of the phase voltages and
is a common problem, particularly with open-delta three-phase power systems.

Voltage imbalance is the measure of the voltage differences between the phases of a three-phase
system. The procedure for calculating voltage imbalance was outlined in the Engineering Your
Business column in the February 2022 issue of Water Well Journal. It degrades the performance and
significantly shortens the life of three-phase motors.

Transients can result from switching of power lines or harmonics from VFDs, fluorescent lighting
ballasts, and other electronic and capacitive equipment. The impact of transients on motors can also
be severe, as motor winding insulation can steadily degrade, leading to costly early motor failure and
unplanned downtime.

The recent trend towards retrofitting high or premium efficiency motors with existing pumping
installations can also present problems with existing motor controllers. High efficiency electric motors
are often designed for a greater inrush current during the starting phase than older motors. This can
result in instantaneous tripping of the circuit breaker, especially with full voltage starting methods.

This can often be corrected by adjusting the inrush dial setting on the circuit breaker. However,
replacement of the circuit breaker or switching to dual element fuses may be needed in some cases.

Improper connections to the motor, particularly with new installations and dual voltage motors, is a
common problem with three-phase motors. Most three-phase motors are provided with nine leads,
although some types use only six or three leads. These are pulled from the stator and must be
combined and wired to the incoming power supply in accordance with the type of winding and
supplied voltage.

Each motor type, delta and wye, use a standard wiring configuration as illustrated in Figure 3.
However, the installer or electrician must always verify the type of motor and its applicable wiring
diagram before performing the junction box connections.

Inadequate knowledge of the type of motor starter is often the single greatest impediment to
effectively troubleshooting a three-phase motor. Troubleshooters must make the effort to familiarize
themselves with the function and complexities of the applicable motor starting and control method as
the problem often lies in the motor controller or control circuit rather than with the motor.

Problems with the motor controller or control circuit can be as simple as a blown fuse or tripped
circuit breaker to as complex as burned-out diodes or capacitors in a variable frequency drive. A
working knowledge of electrical schematics and understanding of the specific type of motor
controller and its function is necessary to effectively troubleshoot three-phase motors, particularly
those with complicated starters,
extensive wiring, external devices and circuits, or numerous components.

Figure 4. Common methods of

motor control.

Often, correcting an issue with the motor controller or control circuitry will repair the entire issue.
Three-phase motors are capable of starting and running motors using various styles of full and
reduced voltage equipment. The typical types are shown in Figure 4 as one-line diagrams, including:

 Direct-On Line (DOL) (across the line or ALS): Applies direct full voltage to motor at starting
  Star-Delta: Reduces voltage during starting using a star connection, then transitions to a delta
connection
 Primary Resistor or Reactor: Appropriate resistance is introduced in series with each winding
to start.
 Autotransformer: Uses winding taps to reduce start voltage to 50%, 65%, or 80% of full
voltage
 Part Winding: Starts motor on one half of the motor’s windings, requires specialized motor
design
 Electronic Soft Starter: Electronically reduces the voltage to the motor during the starting
phase
 Variable Frequency Drive (VFD): Functions the same as the soft starter, but is capable of
variable speed.

With the exception of a VFD, all of the above starting methods are designed to transition to full
voltage values once the motor has started and began to accelerate to full speed.

Many of these motor starters, including part winding and autotransformer, use time delay relays to
perform the transition from reduced voltage start to full voltage running. These time delay relays are
often the source of the problem, particularly if the motor does not successfully ramp up to full speed
after it has started.

The troubleshooting protocol associated with each controller is specific to the method and type of
system and cannot be easily simplified. It is imperative that anyone contemplating troubleshooting
these various motor control methods possess a full understanding of the controller type, the system
it controls, and possible problems.

Electronic soft starters and variable frequency drives require even more specialized knowledge of
electronic circuits beyond most motor controllers. Additional test meters, such as frequency and sine
wave meters, are often required.

When troubleshooting a system as complex as a drive, sometimes it’s difficult to know how and
where to start. By initially checking the supply voltage, current, and frequency, the troubleshooter
can rule out problems that might affect the motor drive or breaker circuits. If operable, examining the
output voltage and frequency to the motor with the reference value or systems that employ speed
control feedback, such as an analog control loop, is a valuable troubleshooting step.

This can save valuable time and lead to a faster resolution to the problem. In addition, by identifying
over- or under-voltage conditions, nuisance tripping of soft starter or drive fault circuits can often be
avoided and prevent eventual damage to the motor and device.

The basic procedure for troubleshooting electronic soft starters and drives is as follows:

1. If an aboveground installation, always check the pump and motor for free-hand rotation.
2. Check the input voltage from the AC power supply entering the soft starter or drive.
3. Check the device’s components for burned solder joints or loose connections, including the
AC to DC converter, circuit board, DC filter, and the DC-to-AC inverter that provide the power
to the motor.
4. Check the motor itself.
Once the power supply (three-line phase to phase voltage), motor controller, related control circuit,
and junction box connections have been verified for correct values and properly function, the
troubleshooter can turn to the motor itself.
Automatic 3-Phase Induction Motor Starter
The starter circuit presented here offers two main advantages: single-phase prevention and
automatic star-to-delta conversion. -- R. Lakshmanan

January 9, 2017

77626

- Advertisement -
3 phase induction motor starter often uses star-to-delta converters. The stator
coils of the motor are connected in star configuration at the time of power-on
and switched to delta configuration when the motor reaches 3/4th of its full
speed, after the stator coils have developed sufficient back electromagnetic
force (emf).

The 3 phase induction motor starter circuit presented here offers two main
advantages: single-phase prevention and automatic star-to-delta conversion. It
can be used only with those motors which are rated for connection in delta
configuration at the given line voltage and which have both ends of each of the
three stator windings available individually.
 - Advertisement -

At start, the line voltage is applied to one end of each of the three windings,
with the other ends bridged together, effectively connecting the windings in star
configuration. Under this connection, the voltage across the windings is 1/√3 of
line-to-line supply voltage and so the current flowing through each winding is
also reduced by this factor. Compared to delta connection, the resultant current
flowing from the supply, as also the torque, is reduced by a factor of 1/3 in star
configuration. The relevant equations for star and delta connections are given in
the box.

As soon as the moment of inertia is overcome, and sufficient back emf is

induced in the stator windings, the star connection is opened and the ends of
the windings are connected to the 3-phase supply in a fashion to create a delta
connection.
Induction motor basics
The AC induction motor, also called the squirrel cage motor, comprises a simple
cage-like rotor and a stator containing three windings. The changing field
produced by the AC line current in the stator induces a current in the rotor,
which interacts with the field and causes the motor to rotate.

The base speed of the AC motor is determined by the number of poles built into
the stator windings and the frequency of the AC input voltage. A load on the
motor causes the motor to slip in proportion to the load.

3 phase induction motor starter circuit

Fig. 1 shows the circuit of the automatic star-to-delta converter comprising a
single-phase preventer and a timer.
3 phase induction motor starter: Circuit Diagram
Three single-phase transformers are used to step-down the 3-phase supply
separately. Phases R, Y and B are stepped down by transformers X1, X2 and X3
to deliver the secondary output of 12V at 300 mA. The transformer output is
rectified by a full-wave rectifier and filtered by a capacitor.

The three 12V DC supplies drive relays RL1, RL2 and RL3, respectively. When all
the three phases are present, the 12V DC supply derived from the R phase is
fed to the coil of relay RL3 and the timer circuit through the contacts of relays
RL1 and RL2. As a result, relay RL3 energises.

Simultaneously, timer NE555 (IC1), which is configured as a monostable

multivibrator, is also triggered. Its time period is determined by capacitor C4,
resistor R1 and preset VR1. Preset VR1 is used to set the time period required
to reach 3/4th of the full speed of the motor. The negative triggering pulse for
IC1 is provided by the combination of resistor VR1, R1 and capacitor C4.

The timer output at pin 3 is connected to the base of transistor T2 via resistor
R2. As a result, transistor T2 is driven to saturation and relay RL4 energises
(indicated by glowing of LED2). Thus at power-on, relay RL3, as also RL4,
energises (if all three phases are present) to connect the stator windings in star
configuration.

On tracing the connections you will observe that R phase is connected to R1 end
of R windings, Y phase is connected to Y1 end of Y windings and B phase is
connected to B1 terminal of B stator windings. The other ends of all the stator
windings (i.e., R2, Y2 and B2) get bridged together to form star connection.

Fig
. 2: Single-side PCB layout of 3 phase induction motor starter
 Fig
. 3: Component layout for the PCB

Download PCB and component layout PDFs: click here

After the specified delay, which is provided for the speed of the motor to 3/4th
of its full speed value, the monostable output goes low to cut off transistor T2
and de-energise relay RL4. The motor stator coils now switch to delta
configuration. Now you will observe that R phase gets connected to the junction
of R1 and B2 terminals, Y phase is connected to Y1 and R2 terminals and B
phase is connected to B1 and Y2 terminals of the stator winding. This
connection conforms to delta configuration. Since the output of IC1 is low in this
state, pnp transistor T1 is forward biased to light up LED1 and indicate delta
configuration.
 Determining Phase and Line
Voltages and Currents in Wye-
connected Generators
August 29, 2022 by Amna Ahmad

A generator that produces three separate sinewave

output voltages with 120° phase differences is
called a three-phase generator. The three generator
coils may be connected in one of two possible
configurations: Y-connection and Δ-connection. In
this article, you’ll learn how to determine phase and
line voltages and currents in wye-connected
generators.

To complement?? this article,

we provide you with the Delta-
Wye Calculator.

The output voltage levels produced by a three-phase generator depend on the

connection arrangement of the three individual generator loops (or coils). The
two possible connection methods are wye (Y) and delta (Δ) because of circuit
resemblances to those symbols.

Phase Voltages and Currents

Figure 1 represents a Y-connected three-phase generator, in which the coil
terminals a, b, and c are connected to a single neutral terminal (N). There are
four output terminals: A, B, C, and N.
The system illustrated in Figure 1 is termed a three-phase four-wire supply. In
some cases, the neutral conductor may not be connected, and the system
becomes a three-phase three-wire supply.
Figure 1. For a Y-connected three-phase generator, the phase voltage and phase current are the output
voltage and current from each coil. The line voltage is the voltage measured between any two output
lines (conductors). The line current is the current flowing in a line. Image used courtesy of Amna Ahmad

All three coils in a three-phase generator are identical, producing the same
level of rms output voltage. This is termed the phase voltage(V ). Figure 1 p

shows E , E , and E now identified as E , E , and E , respectively. All

Aa Bb Cc, AN BN CN

three are equal to V . p

The phase current (I ) is the current level supplied by each of the three
p

generator coils. The directions of the phase currents (I , I , and I ) shown in

a b c

Figure 1 are those that occur when each coil has a positive output voltage.
Thus, the phase current for coil Aa is shown flowing out of terminal A and into
a.

Double Subscript Notation

The double subscript notation is used with the voltage symbols to indicate the
direction of current flow when each coil (or loop) output is positive. Subscript
Aa used with voltage E identifies terminal A as positive concerning terminal a
Aa

when this coil output is positive. E is rewritten as E in Figure 1, indicating

Aa AN

that terminal A is positive concerning the neutral terminal while the coil output
is positive.
Similarly, when the output of coil Bb is a positive quantity, terminal B is
positive concerning b, and the internal current direction is from b to B. The
voltage is identified as E or E in Figure 1. The voltage labeled E or
Bb BN Cc,

E shows that terminal C is positive concerning c when coil Cc has a positive

CN,

output. In a different subscript system, the order of the double subscripts

indicates the current direction instead of the voltage polarity.

Line Currents and Voltages

The conductors that connect a three-phase generator to a load are referred to
as lines, and the current carried by each of these conductors is known as the
line current(I ). Figure 1 shows that the phase and line currents in a Y-
L

connected generator are the same quantities.

The neutral conductor is the return conductor for all three individual coils in a
Y-connected, four-wire system. So, the neutral current (I ) is the phasor sum
N

of all three line currents. This would seem to make I larger than I and
N L

therefore require a neutral conductor that is thicker than the line conductors.
However, in Example 1, it is demonstrated that when all three coils have
identical loads (a balanced load), I is zero. When a balanced load condition
N

does not exist, current flows in the neutral conductor.

In a Y-connected generator, the phase voltage is the voltage measured
between any line and neutral. The line voltage is the voltage measured
between any two lines. Thus, the line voltage is the phasor difference of two
phase voltages. Figure 2 demonstrates how the line voltages are calculated.
 (a) Phasor diagram for voltages

(b) Line voltage EAB is the phasor difference EAN - EBN

 (c) Line voltage EBC = EBN - ECN and ECA = ECN - EAN

Figure 2. For a Y-connected three-phase generator, the line voltages are the phasor sums of pairs of
phase voltages. This makes each line voltage equal to 3 (phase voltage). Image used courtesy of Amna
Ahmad

Figure 2(a) shows the individual coil voltage phasors. Line voltage E in AB

Figure 1 is the phasor difference between E and E . To determine E , -E is

AN BN AB BN

first drawn equal and opposite to E [see Figure 2(b)]. Because of the 120°
BN

phase difference between E and E , there is a 60° angle between E and -

AN BN AN

E . Voltages E and E are equal in magnitude; therefore, phasors E and –

BN AN BN AN

E are equal in length. Because of this equality, phasor E (representing the

BN AB

sum of E and -E ) is situated 30° from E and 30° from -E , as illustrated in

AN BN AN BN

Figure 2(b).
This gives,

E A B = E A N cos 30° + ( − EBN cos 30°) ���=������30°+

(−������30°)
which is the same as,

E A B = V pcos 30° + V pcos 30° = 2(V pcos 30°) = 1.732V p ���=

�����30°+�����30°=2(�����30°)=1.732��
or

E A B = √ 3V p ���=3��
So, for a Y-connected generator,

Li ne V o lt age = √ 3 × Ph ase V o lt age �����������=3

×�ℎ����������
that is,

VL = √ 3V p ��=3�� (1)
Also,
Line Current = Phase Current
or

IL = I p ��=�� (2)
Figure 2(b) also shows that line voltage E leads phase voltage E by 30°.
AB AN

Figure 2(c) shows the determination of E and E as the phasor differences

BC CA

E -E and E -E , respectively. Note that for line voltage E , the subscript

BN CN CN AN AB

indicates that the generator terminal A is positive with respect to terminal B

when E is a positive quantity (see Figure 1).
AB

Y-Connected Loads
The circuit of a Y-connected generator with Y-connected load resistors is
shown in Figure 3 (a). Note that the generator phase voltages are once again
identified as E , E , and E , and the load voltages are similarly identified. The
AN BN CN

reasoning that developed Equations 1 and 2 for a Y-connected generator can

also be applied to determine the voltage and current relationships for the Y-
connected load.
Referring to Figure 3 (a), the voltages across the individual loads are
obviously equal to the generator phase voltages. Therefore, Equation 1 can
be rewritten as

Li ne V o lt age = √ 3 × L oa dV o lt age �����������=3

�����������
Also, the individual load currents are clearly the same currents that flow in the
lines.
Line Current = Load Current

(a) Y-connected three-phase generator with Y-connected resistive loads

 (b) Phasor diagram of load voltages and currents for purely resistive loads

(c) When I1 = I2 = I3, I1 + I2 = -I3, giving I1 + I2 + I3 = 0

Figure 3. Circuit and phasor diagrams for a Y-connected three-phase four-wire generator with a Y-
connected balanced load. In this case, the load voltages and currents are equal to the generator phase
voltage and phase current. Images used courtesy of Amna Ahmad

Example 1
Load resistors, R , R , and R in Figure 3(a) are each 100 Ω, and the phase
1 2 3

voltage is V =100 V. Determine: (a) the line current, (b) the neutral current,
p

and (c) the line voltage.

Solution
(a) The line current

E A N = EBN = E C N = 100V ���=���=���=100�

IL = I A = IB = I C ��=��=��=��

IL = VPR1 = 100V100Ω = 1 A ��=���1=100�100Ω=1�

(b) The phasor diagram for the currents is drawn in Figure 3(b). Because the
loads are resistive, each load current is in phase with the phase voltages.
Figure 3(c) shows that the phasor sum of I and I equals -I . So,
1 2 3

IN = I A + IB + I C = 0 ��=��+��+��=0
(c) The line voltage

VL = √ 3V p = √ 3 × 100V = 173.2V ��=3��=3×100�=173.2�

Key Takeaways

 A three-phase wye–connected generator produces three separate

sinusoidal alternating voltages from three output terminals.
 The terminals are identified as A, B, and C; sometimes, a neutral terminal
(N) is also available.
 The three waveforms have 120° phase differences from each other.
 The generator output voltages can be measured as phase voltage and
line voltage.
 The phase and line currents in a Y-connected generator are the same
quantities.
 Understanding the Basics of Delta
Transformer Calculations
Nov. 1, 2004
Transformer configuration names like and derive from the way the windings
are connected inside the transformer. These connections determine the way
the transformer will behave, and they also determine the methods of
calculation required for properly applying a given transformer. Delta-
connected transformers have the windings of three single-phase transformers
connected in series with each other to
Mike Holt



Thank you for visiting one of our most popular classic articles. If you’d like to
see updated information on this topic, please check out this recently published
article, Transformer Calculations.

Note: This article is based on the 2002 NEC.

Transformer configuration names like “delta” and “wye” derive from the way the
windings are connected inside the transformer. These connections determine the way
the transformer will behave, and they also determine the methods of calculation
required for properly applying a given transformer.

Delta-connected transformers have the windings of three single-phase transformers

connected in series with each other to form a closed circuit. The line conductors are
connected to the unit where the two single-phase transformers meet. This configuration
gets its name because in an electrical drawing it looks like a triangle (Greek symbol Δ for
the letter “delta”). Many call it a high-leg system because the voltage from Line 2 to
ground is higher than that of the other legs. For example, a 120V delta transformer will
have a 208V leg.

Fig. 1. It’s important to note that the line current from a delta transformer doesn’t equal the phase
current. In this example, the line current is 87A and the phase current is 50A.
Delta transformer current. In a delta transformer, the line current
doesn't equal the phase current (as it does in a wye transformer).
Because each line from a delta configured transformer is connected to
two transformer phases, the line current from a 3-phase load will be
greater than the phase current by the square root of 3. Note these
formulas:

ILine= IPhase×√3

ILine= VALine÷(ELine × √3)

IPhase= ILine÷√3

IPhase= VAPhase÷EPhase

Fig. 2. You can use the same formula to find both the primary and secondary line current.

If you plug some numbers in, you can more clearly see the effects of the
delta configuration on currents. Let's try this with a 240V, 36kVA, 3-
phase load (Fig. 1 above).
First, let's solve for the line current (total line power=36kVA).

ILine=VALine÷(ELine×√3)

ILine=36,000VA÷(240V×√3)

ILine=87A

Now, let's solve for the phase current (phase power=12kVA, per
winding).

IPhase=VAPhase÷EPhase

IPhase=12,000VA÷240V=50A

You can also find the line and phase currents using the other two
formulas shown above.

ILine=IPhase×√3

ILine=50A × 1.732=87A

IPhase=ILine÷√3

IPhase=87A÷1.732=50A

We can also use the formula: ILine = VALine÷(ELine×√3). For example, what
is the secondary line current for a 480V to 240/120V, 150kVA, 3-phase
delta transformer (Fig. 2)? The answer is found as follows:

ILine=VALine÷(ELine×√3)

ILine=150,000VA÷(240V×1.732)= 360A

IPhase=ILine÷√3

IPhase=87A÷1.732=50A

We can also use the formula: ILine = VALine÷(ELine×√3). For example, what
is the secondary line current for a 480V to 240/120V, 150kVA, 3-phase
delta transformer (Fig. 2)? The answer is found as follows:
ILine=VALine÷(ELine×√3)

ILine=150,000VA÷(240V×1.732)= 360A

Fig. 3. When solving for phase current, don’t forget to divide the overall transformer kVA rating
by 3.

You can calculate the phase current of a delta transformer winding by

dividing the phase VA by the phase volts: IPhase = VAPhase÷EPhase. The phase
load in VA of a 3-phase, 240V load is the line load divided by three (one
third of load on each winding). The phase load in VA of a single-phase
240V load is the line load (all on one winding). The phase load in VA of a
single-phase, 120V load is the line load (all on one winding).

Let's look at another example problem. What is the secondary phase

current for a 480V to 240/120V, 150kVA, 3-phase delta transformer
(Fig. 3 above)?

Phase power=150,000VA÷3 per phase

Phase power=50,000VA per phase

 IPhase=50,000VA÷240V

IPhase=208A

To better understand what happens in a delta system, try running these

numbers with a 10A load and then with a 75A load.

Fig. 4. This diagram is showing transformer balancing. For the sake of simplicity, overcurrent
protection for these circuits isn’t shown.

Delta transformer balancing. To properly size a delta/delta

transformer, the transformer phases (windings) must be balanced. You
can do that with a two-step process:

Step 1. Determine the VA rating of all loads.

Step 2. Balance the loads on the transformer windings as follows:

 3-phase loads: one-third of the load on each of the phases.

 240V, single-phase loads: 100% of the load on Phase A or B. You can
place some of the 240V, single-phase load on Phase C when necessary for
balance.

 120V loads: 100% of the load on C1 or C2.

To size the panelboard and its conductors, you must balance the loads in
amperes. Why balance the panel in amperes? Why not take the VA per
phase and divide by phase voltage? Because line current of a 3-phase
load is calculated by the following formula:

ILine=VA÷(ELine×√3)

ILine=150,000VA÷(240V×1.732)= 208A per line.

If you took the per line power of 50,000VA and divided by one line
voltage of 120V, you would come up with an incorrect line current of
50,000VA÷ 120V=417A.

Delta transformer sizing. Consider this method the next time you're
sizing delta-connected transformers, where most of the loads are line-to-
line. Once you balance the transformer, size it to the load of each phase.
Size the “C” transformer using two times the highest of “C1” or “C2.” The
“C” transformer is actually a single unit. If one side has a larger load, that
side determines the transformer size.

Refer to this load breakdown per phase for the practice problem below.

Let's try another practice problem to reinforce these concepts. What size
480V to 240/120V transformer is required for the following loads: one
240V, 36kVA, 3-phase heat strip; two 240V, 10kVA, 3-phase loads; three
120V, 3kVA loads, single-phase (Fig. 4)?

(a) three single-phase, 25kVA transformers

(b) one 3-phase, 75kVA transformer

(c) a or b
(d) none of the above

Phase winding A=22kVA

Phase winding B=22kVA

Phase winding C=(12kVA of C1×2) = 24kVA

The answer is (c), a or b. You can use one single-phase 75kVA

transformer or three 25kVA transformers for this load.

Now that you understand some transformer calculation basics and

specifics on delta transformer calculations, you'll be able to size delta
transformers correctly when the majority of the loads are line-to-line.
You find delta-delta transformers most often in special applications. The
most common configuration is the delta-wye. In the case of a delta-wye
transformer, you now know how to size the primary side. After next
month's article, which will address the wye transformer calculations,
you'll be able to size any combination of delta and wye transformers.

Sidebar: Know Your Terms

To avoid confusion with transformer calculations, it's important to have

a firm grasp of some basic concepts (Fig. 5 below). Once you're
comfortable with these terms, you should be ready to tackle all types of
transformer calculations.
Fig. 5. Knowing transformer terms is key to proper calculations.

Line — The ungrounded (hot) conductor(s).

Line current — The current on the ungrounded conductors (B1 and B2

in Fig. 6). In a delta system, the line current is greater than the phase
current by the square root of 3, which is about 1.732). In a wye system,
the line current equals the phase current.

Line voltage — The voltage between any two line (ungrounded)

conductors (A1 and A2 in Fig. 6). In a delta system, the line voltage
equals the phase voltage. But the delta system also has a high-leg.
Fig. 6. Key voltage and current readings in a delta/delta system.

Phase current — The current flowing through the transformer winding

(D1 and D2 in Fig. 6). In a delta system, the phase current is less than
the line current by the square root of 3. In a wye system, the phase
current equals the line current.

Phase load — The load on the transformer winding.

Phase voltage — The internal transformer voltage generated across one

winding of a transformer. For a delta secondary, the phase voltage equals
the line voltage. In a wye system, the phase voltage is less than the line
voltage by the square root of 3 (A2 and C2 in Fig. 6).

Ratio — The number of primary winding turns divided by the number of

secondary winding turns.

Unbalanced load (neutral current) — The load on the secondary

grounded (neutral) conductors.
Star Connection
If the three armature coils of a 3-phase alternator are not interconnected but
are kept separate, as shown in Figure below, then each phase or circuit would
need two conductors, the total number of conductors, in that case, being six. It
means that each transmission cable would contain six conductors which will
make the whole system complicated and expensive.

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Hence, the three phases are generally interconnected which results in

substantial savings of copper. The general methods of interconnection are:-

 Star or Wye (Y) connection and

 Mesh or Delta (Δ) connection.

Star or Wye (Y) Connection

In star connection, three similar ends (start or finish) of the three windings are
joined together at a common point. This point is known as star point or neutral
point. The three conductors meeting at star point are replaced by a single
conductor known as neutral conductor (or neutral). Star connection is also
known as Y or Wye connection.

If the voltage of a star-connected alternator is applied across a balanced load,

the neutral wire will carry three load currents which are exactly equal in
magnitude but 120o out of phase with each other. Hence, their vector sum is
zero.

i.e. IR + IB + IY = 0,
or IN = 0.

The neutral wire, in that case, may be omitted although its retention is useful
for supplying lighting loads at low voltages.

Voltages and Currents in Star Connection

The potential difference between any terminal (or line) and neutral (or star)
point gives the phase voltage (VPH). But the potential difference between any
two lines gives the line-to-line voltage or simply line voltage (V L).

In balanced star connection line voltage = √3 x phase voltage (in

magnitude) and line voltage leads the phase voltage by 30o.

The current in each winding is known as phase current (IPH) and the current
flowing in each line is called line current (IL). In star connection line current is
equal to phase current.

While considering the current distribution in a three-phase system, always

keep the following two points in mind:
 Arrows placed alongside the phase currents IR, IY, and IB indicate the
direction of current when they are assumed to be positive and not
the direction at a particular instant, and at no instant, all the three
currents will flow in the same direction. It is so because the three
currents have a phase difference of 120o.
  The current flowing outwards in one conductor is equal to the sum
of currents flowing inwards in the other two conductors. It means
that each conductor provides a return path for the currents of the
other two conductors.
Advantages and Applications of Star Connection
 Three-phase generators are usually star-connected. It is so because
only 1/√3 of the line voltage will appear on every phase winding of
the alternator. It means in star connected generator, the number of
coil turns required per phase is less than for a delta-connected
generator.
 Star connection provides two voltages i.e. phase voltage and line
voltage. Hence lighting loads are connected across the three
phases whereas power loads like three-phase motors are
connected across lines. Therefore, this system (three-phase four-
wire system) is widely used to supply electric power to domestic as
well as commercial and industrial users.
  Another advantage of the star connection is that the neutral of the
generator can be earthed. In that case, the potential difference
between each line and earth is equal to phase voltage i.e. V L/√3.

Hence if by a fault line conductor is earthed, the insulator will have to

bear a voltage of V /√3 only. But in the case of delta connection, the
L

insulator will have to bear full line voltage V . It will increase the
L

possibility of insulator breakdown.

Balanced Star Connection
A balanced star connection is one in which the three-phase voltages are equal
in magnitude but displaced 120o from one another. In a balanced star-
connected system, three-line voltages will also be equal in magnitude but
displaced 120o from one another.
Star Connected Lighting Loads
In Figure, a star-connected lighting network in a three-story house is shown.
For such a load, it is essential to have a neutral wire in order to ensure
uniform distribution of load among the three phases despite random switching
on and off or burning of lamps.

It is seen from the Figure, that network supplies two flats on each floor of the
three-story residence and there is a balanced distribution of lamp load among
the three phases. There are house fuses at the cable entry into the building
which protects the two mains against short-circuits in the main cable.

At the flat entry, there are apartment (or flat) fuses in the single-phase supply
which protects the two mains and other flats in the same building from short
circuits in a given building.

There is no fuse on the neutral wire of the mains because blowing of such
a fuse would mean a break in the neutral wire. This would result in unequal
voltages across different groups of lamps in case they have different power
ratings or numbers.

Consequently, filaments in one group would burn dim whereas in other groups
they would burn too bright resulting in their early burn-out.