ANSI/I EEE C37.

92-1969

guide for
induction motor protection

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 ANSI IEEE
C37.92-1972 Std 2 8 8 - 1 9 6 9

American National Standard Guide for

Induction Motor Protection

Sponsor

Switchgear Committee of the

I E E E Power Engineering Society

A p p r o v e d M a r c h 14, 1 9 6 8

I E E E Standards Committee

Secretariat

Edison Electric Institute

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
National Electrical Manufacturers Association

A p p r o v e d J a n u a r y 28, 1972

American National Standards Institute

© C o p y r i g h t 1969 b y T h e Institute o f Electrical and Electronics Engineers, I n c .

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form,

in an electronic retrieval system or otherwise,
without the prior written permission of the publisher.

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 Foreword
(This Foreword is not a part of American National Standard Guide for Induction Motor Protection, C37.92-1972
(IEEE Std 288-1969)).

F o l l o w i n g t h e p u b l i c a t i o n o f t h i s s t a n d a r d b y I E E E in 1969, t h e d o c u m e n t w a s r e v i e w e d b y the
C37 Subcommittee on Protective Relays and forwarded to American National Standards
C o m m i t t e e C 3 7 , P o w e r S w i t c h g e a r , f o r a p p r o v a l as a n A m e r i c a n N a t i o n a l S t a n d a r d .
T h e A m e r i c a n N a t i o n a l S t a n d a r d s C o m m i t t e e o n P o w e r Switchgear, C37, w h i c h approved this
s t a n d a r d , h a d t h e f o l l o w i n g p e r s o n n e l at t h e t i m e o f a p p r o v a l :

C. L. Wagner, Chairman

C . M . C l e v e n g e r , Executive Vice Chairman, W . E . L a u b a c h , Executive Vice Chairman,

High-Voltage Switchgear Standards Low-Voltage Switchgear Standards

W . R . W i l s o n , Executive Vice Chairman, J. G . W e r n e r , Secretary

IEC Activities
Organization Represented Name of Representative

Association of American Railroads W . O. Muller

Association of Iron and Steel Engineers T . S. Novak
Electric Light and Power Group H. W. Grissler
R. R. Wagstaff
J. E. Beehler
H. G. Frus
K. D. Hendrix (Alt.)
J. P. Markey (Alt.)
F. R. Solis 6 4 Ü J
C. D . Stalnaker (Alt.)
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers C. J. Essel
J. B. Owens
H. O. Simmons, Jr.
G. W . Walsh
H. W. White
H. C. Barnes (Alt.)
W . A. Carter (Alt.)
R. E. Friedrich (Alt.)
W. A. Hall (Alt.)
National Electrical Manufacturers Association W . R. Wilson
R. W . Dunham
A. P. Colaiaco
C. E. Grycto
W . J . Smith
Β. K. Sturgis
J. G. Werner (Alt.)
Tennessee Valley Authority O. S. C. Hammer
U. S. Department of the Army H. R. Bruck
W . K . Cave
U. S. Department of the Navy Norman Mawdsley
I. W . Johnson (Alt.)
U. S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation Ε. M . Tomsic

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 CONTENTS

Page
I. Introduction 3
A. General Format 3
B. Interrupting Devices 3
1. Fuses 3
2. Molded-Case Circuit Breakers 3
3. Low-Voltage Power Circuit Breakers 3
4. High-Voltage Power Circuit Breakers 4
5. Contactors 4
C. Effect of Control Equipment 4

II. Motor Protection Requirements 5

A. Thermal Protection 5
1. General 5
2. Inadequate Ventilation 5
3. Unusual Ambient Conditions 5
4. Frequent Starts or Jogging 6
5. National Electrical Code (NEC) Requirements
for Motor Protective Devices 6
6. Internally and/or Frame-Mounted Protective Devices 7
(a) Three Basic Types of Protective Devices 7
(b) Motor-Winding Temperature Limiting 7
(c) Devices Sensing Motor Temperature Only 7
(d) Devices Sensing Motor Temperature and Current 8
(e) Devices Sensing Both Motor Temperature
and Rate of Temperature Change 8
7. Separately Mounted Protective Devices 8
(a) Types of Thermal Overload Relays 8
(b) Thermal Protection Afforded by Thermal Overload Relays 9
(c) Ambient Temperature Effects 9
(d) Special Application Problems 10
B. Fault Protection 10
1. General Considerations 10
2. Effect of System Characteristics 10
3. Effect of Motor and Fault Characteristics 10
4. Overcurrent Phase Fault Protection 10
5. Ground-Fault Protection 11
6. System Ground Protection 11
7. Differential Protection 12
8. Wound-Rotor Protection 13
C. Bearing Protection 14
1. General 14
2. Antifriction (Ball, Roller) Bearings 14
3. Fluid Film (Sleeve) Bearings 14
4. Bearing Failure 14
5. Protection 14
D . Protection Against Abnormal Operating Conditions 15
1. Abnormal Voltage 15
(a) Undervoltage Protection 15
(b) Overvoltage Protection 16
(c) Unbalance Protection and Phase Failure 16
2. Abnormal Frequency 17
3. Locked Rotor or Failure to Accelerate 17
4. Incomplete-Starting-Sequence Protection 18
5. Out-of-Phase Protection 18
6. Surge Protection 19
(a) Surge Protection of High-Voltage Motors 19
(b) Surge Protection of Low-Voltage Motors 20
(c) Ratings of Surge-Protective Equipment 20

III. Motor Protection Specifications 21

A. General Considerations 21
B. Induction Motor Protection Tables 21

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 C O N T E N T S (Cont'd)
IV. Setting and Adjustment of Protective Devices 21
A. General Discussion 21
B. Device 27—Undervoltage Relay 21
C. Device 46—Phase-Balance Relay 22
D . Device 47—Undervoltage and Phase Sequence Relay 23
E. Device 48—Incomplete-Sequence Relay 23
F. Device 49—Thermal Relay Connected for Tripping 24
G. Device 49—Thermal Relay Connected for Alarm 26
1. Ambient Compensation 26
H. Device 49—Relay Operated from Embedded Detector 26
I. Device 50/51 ( N E M A OC)—Overcurrent Devices 26
1. Fuses 26
2. Time Overcurrent Relays (51) 27
(a) Induction Overcurrent Relays 27
(b) Plunger-Type Time-Delay Overcurrent Relays 27
3. Instantaneous Overcurrent Relays (50) 27
J. Device 50G—Instantaneous Ground-Current Relay., 27
K . Device 51N—Residually Connected Ground Overcurrent Relay. 27
L. Device 60—Current-Balance Relay (Split Winding) 28
M . Device 64—Ground-Fault (Flashover) Relay 28
N . Device 81—Frequency Relay 28
O. Device 86—Lockout Relay 28
P. Device 87—Differential Relay 28

Bibliography 28
A. General Information 28'
B. Thermal Protection 28
C. Fault Protection 29
D . Protection Against Abnormal Operating Conditions 29
E . Surge Protection 29
F. Settings and Adjustments of Protective Devices 29
G. Standards Publications 29

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The Institute wishes to acknowledge its indebtedness to those who have so freely given of their time and knowl­
edge and have conducted experimental work on which many of the I E E E publications are based.

This publication was prepared by the Motor Protection Subcommittee of the Power Systems Relaying Com­
mittee of the I E E E Power Group. The Subcommittee is indebted to its members, both past and present, who, as
members of the Power Systems Relaying Committee and other liaison Committees and Groups, gave so willingly
of their time and knowledge. The membership of the Subcommittee was:

A. Hauspurg, Chairman 1959-61

M . F. Rosol, Chairman 1961-64
S. H. Horowitz, Chairman 1964-

J. M . Bisbee W . D . Jordan
F. P. Brightman E. F. Kratz
E. L. Busby J. F. MacMaster
D . Dalasta W . J. Martiny
W . A. Elmore L. H . Matthias
J. F. Fesler Β. M . Maxwell, Jr.
L. L. Gleason L. B. McClung
Η. H. Gnuse, Jr. C. Raczkowski
W . A. Hammer V. E. Verall
T. L. Hatcher P. Vinett
R. Haynes G. W . Walsh
D . H. Jackson A. P. White

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 IEEE Guide for

INDUCTION MOTOR PROTECTION

I. I N T R O D U C T I O N G u i d e a s u m m a r y of their application a n d limitations is

essential. F a u l t protection for m o t o r feeder circuits can
A. General Format. T h e application guide for relay
be provided b y the interrupting ability of the following
protection of squirrel-cage and wound-rotor induction
devices:
m o t o r s presents a review of the generally accepted forms
of m o t o r protection a n d summarizes t h e use of relays a n d (a) fuses,
devices, singly and in c o m b i n a t i o n , to enable the reader (b) molded-case circuit breakers,
to properly select the necessary equipment to obtain (c) low-voltage power circuit breakers,
adequate m o t o r protection. T h e G u i d e is prepared pri­ (d) high-voltage power circuit breakers,
marily for the protection of three-phase integral-horse­ (e) contactors.
power m o t o r s and refers to single- or two-phase m o t o r s
1. Fuses. Fuses are the simplest of all protective
only in special instances and only where specifically
devices, combining b o t h the detecting element and the
indicated. I t is especially useful where the m o t o r installa­
interrupting medium. Age or atmospheric conditions
tion is sufficiently important, due t o either its size or the
will usually h a v e little effect on the protective character­
consequences of m o t o r malfunction, to justify specific
istic of a fuse. A n y such effect will cause the fuse to open
design of the protective system. It also provides the
earlier. Fuses require practically no maintenance.
information necessary to judge whether there are safety
or economic reasons for such a specific design. For m o s t applications, fuse ratings of about 150 to 4 0 0
percent of m o t o r full-load current are usually required in
T h i s G u i d e is n o t a S t a n d a r d and does n o t purport to
order to allow the m o t o r to start. T h e N a t i o n a l Electrical
detail the protective requirements of all m o t o r s in every
C o d e ( N E C ) requires t h a t branch circuit protection not
situation. Its recommendation is of a general nature
exceed four times m o t o r full-load current. Fuses selected
designed to cover the usual or typical m o t o r installation.
in this manner provide short-circuit protection for m o s t
Sufficient background of material on objectives, applica­
phase and ground faults at operating speeds dictated b y
tion, a n d setting philosophy is presented, however, to
the fuse time-current curves. Fuses of those ratings can­
enable the reader to evaluate the need for various forms
not provide overload protection. Multiple-element fuses
of protection and to select and properly a p p l y suitable
with special time-delay characteristics rated at 125 per­
protective e q u i p m e n t for m o s t situations.
cent m o t o r full-load current m a y be used for m o t o r over­
Section I I , M o t o r Protection R e q u i r e m e n t s , presents a
load protection. Detailed application guides for types of
brief description of the d a m a g i n g effect on a m o t o r of
fuses are given in Section I V .
abnormal voltage, current, temperature, and incorrect
operating conditions or procedures. A clear understanding 2. M o l d e d - C a s e Circuit Breakers. M o l d e d - c a s e cir­
of the electric and mechanical response of a m o t o r t o these cuit breakers are frequently used in combination with
abnormalities will greatly assist the reader in evaluating m o t o r starters. T h e starter with overload elements serves
the need for and the m e a n s of obtaining adequate m o t o r as the contactor and overload device while the molded-case
protection for a n y specific situation. breaker provides the fault protection and the branch
Section I I I , M o t o r Protection Specifications, presents circuit disconnecting m e a n s . Trie circuit breaker provides
detailed recommendations in a series of tables and dia­ fault protection for the motor, its starter, and the circuit
grams showing good engineering practice. T h e tables and conductors. M o t o r voltage rating m u s t be 5 7 5 volts or
diagrams are classified according to t y p e of switching, less.
nominal source voltage, and m o t o r or circuit rating; they Molded-case circuit breakers with either thermal
show the combination of devices normally applied for the magnetic (time and instantaneous) trips or solely with
associated protective function. magnetic (instantaneous) trips m a y be applied. A d j u s t a b l e
Section IV, Setting and A d j u s t m e n t of Protection magnetic trips usually provide better m o t o r fault protec­
Devices, presents a discussion of the various factors which tion. For best fault protection the magnetic trips are set
m u s t be considered in determining the settings of each to trip on as low a value of current as possible but still
relay or device. W h e n e v e r it is applicable a discussion is not trip on m o t o r starting currents. T h e application of
given on the desirability of using a device to actuate an molded-case circuit breakers for overload as well as fault
alarm or a trip. protection is n o t recommended unless the molded-case
breaker is provided with a special thermal trip suitable
B. Interrupting D e v i c e s . Since the protective device
for this use.
generally provides only for the detection of an abnor­
m a l i t y , it is necessary to consider the interrupting device 3. Low-Voltage Power Circuit Breakers. Unlike
in selecting the overall protective package. A l t h o u g h a molded-case breakers, low-voltage power circuit breakers
detailed review of such devices is b e y o n d the scope of the are often used as t h e sole device for all disconnecting,

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fault protection, starting, and overload protection func­
tions for a motor. T h e protective devices used with these
breakers differ from those used with molded-case breakers
Ζ OL I
Z O L 2
in several respects. Their tripping characteristics differ ¿Í0L3
in curve shape; they have field adjustable pickup settings
and can be equipped with various time bands. M o t o r
voltage rating must be 575 volts or less.
Low-voltage p o w e r circuit breakers can be obtained
with integrally mounted current-limiting fuses for in­ Z2 Μ

creased interrupting ability while still retaining three-

phase tripping.
T h e circuit breaker series tripping device can be sup­ 120 V O L T S STOPP.B.

plemented b y adding separate protective relays for addi­

Figure 1. Three-Wire Control Circuit with Undervoltage Protection.
tional protection. W h e n close protection or coordination
is required it is necessary to use protective relays ex­
SUPPLY S O U R C E
clusively.

4. High-Voltage Power Circuit Breakers. High-volt­

age power circuit breakers are often used as the sole
device for all disconnecting, fault protection, starting,
and overload protection functions for a m o t o r . T h e pro­
tective devices are separate relays supplied through in­
strument transformers. Power circuit breakers with
protective relays are often used t o provide b a c k u p fault
protection and disconnecting means for a group of high-
voltage N E M A class E-2 starters.

5. Contactors. Air-break and oil-immersed contactors JWESSURE

SWITCH,ETC.
are primarily designed for starting and overload protec­
tion. T h e contactor must b e capable of interrupting
START-STOP
locked-rotor current. Certain designs have high fault- P.B.
(MA'INTAINtO)
interrupting capabilities and can be used as the fault
protective device within their ratings. Examples are the Figure 2. Two-Wire Control Circuit with Undervoltage Release.

N E M A class C and class E - l controllers.

C. Effect of Control Equipment. Protection from
extreme l o w line voltage or complete loss of
line voltage is an inherent feature of alternating-current
motor controllers of the non-latched-in t y p e . These de­
vices are n o t designed t o release at any specific level of
voltage. T h i s protection is available because the line
switches or contactors are maintained closed b y a p o ­
tential taken directly from the m o t o r line or from a con­
trol transformer. T h e line contactors will close on 85
percent or less of line voltage and open if the voltage is
decreased t o a point somewhat less than the pickup v o l t ­
age. This dropout point is usually 50 t o 70 percent voltage
for alternating-current contactors with alternating-cur­
rent coils. If a severe voltage dip or a complete loss in
line voltage should occur while the m o t o r is running, the
line contactor will d r o p open.
W h e n "three-wire c o n t r o l " circuits are used, as in
Figure 1 the contactor circuit is maintained through an
auxiliary control contact in parallel with the start push­
button. If the contactor should open due t o l o w line
voltage, the coil circuit is broken b y the auxiliary control
c o n t a c t and the m o t o r cannot restart until the start button
is operated. T h i s type of protection is referred t o as
three-wire control with undervoltage protection.
If the auxiliary control contact ( M ) is omitted and
the start-stop pushbutton replaced with a knife switch,
pressure switch, or other t y p e of maintained contact
device, the "two-wire c o n t r o l " circuit of Figure 2 results.
W i t h this scheme, the line contactor will open on low or
no-line voltage t o shut d o w n the motor, b u t the m o t o r
will automatically restart when sufficient voltage is
restored t o close the line contactor. T h i s arrangement is
referred t o as two-wire control with undervoltage relea
T h e two-wire control arrangement has the disadvantage
that several motors on the same power system would
attempt t o restart simultaneously after a voltage outage.
Normally, such a strain placed on a system m a y drag
the voltage d o w n t o the point where the m o t o r would never
b e able to accelerate t o full speed. Also unexpected auto­
matic starting after restoration of voltage m a y be a safety
hazard.
W h e n two-wire control is required, overload relays with
automatic reset features should n o t be used. Under such
a condition, an overload would cause the overload relays
t o shut d o w n the m o t o r , b u t the m o t o r would be restarted
when the relays had reset. This cycle could continue until
the m o t o r is damaged. Standard controllers will provide
either low-voltage protection or low-voltage release, de-

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 inversely related, it is possible t o derive m o r e o u t p u t a t
the expense of shorter life.
In all cases of a b n o r m a l operation which result in
overtemperature, t i m e is an i m p o r t a n t factor. T h e heat
REFER TO } ί
FIGURE 2 < r storage capacity of an induction m o t o r is relatively large;
thus slight overloading for short periods of t i m e will not
CONTROL / result in d a m a g i n g temperature excursions, because the
TRANSFORMER
extra h e a t is stored in the m a s s of the conductor, core,
and structural members. Under abnormal conditions,
such as locked-rotor, temperatures t h a t are d a m a g i n g t o
the insulation m a y b e reached in seconds becavse of the
high current density. A l s o , at high rates of rise there is

IZO VOLTS insufficient time for the h e a t t o b e transmitted from the

conductor t o the m o r e massive parts of the m o t o r , and the
Figure 3. Three-Wire Control Circuit with Time-Delay Under-
voltage Protection. heat storage capacity will appear t o be small.
In general, the principal heat loss in an induction
pending upon which of the initiating circuits is used. machine is proportional t o the current squared. Over-
A third arrangement, which c o m b i n e s features of t w o - temperature from this cause can be prevented b y sensing
wire and three-wire control, is referred t o as time-delay line-current m a g n i t u d e a n d interrupting power when the
undervoltage protection. A typical arrangement is s h o w n current value is excessive. Since m o t o r s require and can
in Figure 3 and consists of a t i m e - d e l a y relay U V which stand an excessive current for a short t i m e during starting,
maintains a sealing c o n t a c t for a definite period so t h a t s o m e time delay m u s t be incorporated in the current-sens­
the m o t o r will restart if the line v o l t a g e has been restored ing device.
before the expiration of the t i m e delay. If the v o l t a g e is W i t h m o t o r s t h a t are used in essential or critical ser­
n o t restored b y t h a t t i m e , the m o t o r c a n n o t start until vice, such as fire p u m p s or boiler-feed p u m p s , it is often
the start p u s h b u t t o n is operated. T h e purpose of this desirable t h a t the operator b e given time t o correct an
t y p e of protection is t o permit continued m o t o r operation overload condition before a m o t o r is s t o p p e d . Such service
after v o l t a g e dips or failures of short duration. W i t h the may require the m o t o r t o run with an overload condition
circuit shown, while the sealing c o n t a c t of U V is m a i n ­ for hours or d a y s in situations in which the overload does
tained closed for a definite period after a v o l t a g e failure, n o t exceed the b r e a k d o w n torque rating of the m o t o r .
it drops out instantly if the stop b u t t o n is operated. I n such cases, the cost of reduced m o t o r life, due to the
overload conditions, is offset b y the expense and d a m a g e
Π. M O T O R PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS which would result from a service interruption.

A. Thermal Protection 2. Inadequate Ventilation. Should an induction

m o t o r operate w i t h o u t ventilation even with n o load on
1. General. M o t o r life m a y be reduced or terminated
the m o t o r , the temperature rise m a y become excessive
by n u m e r o u s causes; e.g., moisture, excessive dielectric
and the temperature will increase until a destructive
stress, mechanical d a m a g e , and thermal d a m a g e t o the
value is reached. This situation can occur when the
insulation. Of these, thermal d a m a g e is the m o s t c o m m o n .
ventilation passages and/or filters become blocked by
T h e insulation s y s t e m of a m o t o r is subject t o deteriora­
foreign m a t t e r such as lint, dirt, insects, snow, ice, and
tion, with age, of its physical and dielectric properties.
other materials. Loss of ventilation can be detected by
T h i s , like other chemical activity, is hastened b y an eleva­
air flow, air pressure, or temperature sensing devices which
tion of the temperature. T h e effect of temperature on
may sound an alarm or shut d o w n the m o t o r . Thes?
m o t o r life h a s been the subject of repeated studies, and
devices should n o t be necessary if a suitable maintenance
it is generally accepted t h a t the life of an insulation s y s t e m
program is adopted.
is a p p r o x i m a t e l y halved for each 1 0 ° C elevation of winding
Such instances as reversing, accelerating d u t y , jogging
temperature. T h e half-life t e m p e r a t u r e rise m a y lie be­
or positioning, reduced-frequency operation, or low-speed
tween 7 ° and 1 2 ° C for practical systems.
operation of wound-rotor m o t o r or multispeed squirrel-
In practice, dielectric breakdown is usually the result
cage m o t o r result in reduced ventilation. T h e s e conditions
of some electric surge, moisture condition, or mechanical
also result in a higher than n o r m a l temperature rise and
displacement of the conductor at the time of failure.
allowance for t h e m m u s t b e m a d e in the m o t o r applica­
Regardless of the reason for the failure, the effect of exces­
tion.
sive temperature is t o reduce the ability of the insulation
materials to withstand mechanical or electric abuse. 3. Unusual A m b i e n t Conditions. When motors are
The temperature level a t which an insulation system installed at high altitude, the effectiveness of the ventila­
should be protected is subject t o engineering j u d g m e n t tion is reduced because of the lower air density. This
and applicable codes. Since temperature and life are results in a higher t h a n normal temperature rise and m u s t

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be considered when specifying or selecting the protective horsepower and speed ratings is given in N E M A Standard
relay setting. MG1-1967.
W h e n t h e ventilating m e d i u m increases in temperature,
5. National Electrical C o d e ( N E C ) Requirements for
the m o t o r winding temperature increases b y a n equal
Motor Protective Devices. The NEC specifies that
a m o u n t . Therefore, when operation is planned under v a r y ­
overcurrent devices and thermal protectors m u s t "protect
ing ambient temperature, care must be exercised to
the m o t o r s , the m o t o r control apparatus, and branch-
m a t c h the protective-device characteristics to the m o t o r .
circuit conductors against excessive heating due to m o t o r
Special consideration should be given to settings when the
overloads." B y definition, "Overload in electric apparatus
m o t o r a n d relay are s u b j e c t t o different a m b i e n t t e m p e r a ­
is an operating overcurrent which, when it persists for a
tures. (See Section I I - 7 c . ) Excessive m o t o r temperature
sufficient length of time, would cause d a m a g e or dangerous
m a y result if the discharge air is misdirected so as to
overheating of the apparatus. I t does not include short
reenter the inlet ports. T h i s can be caused b y installing
circuits or ground faults."
motors:
T h i s requires the m o t o r running overcurrent protection
(a) t o o close to a wall, t o supervise the m a x i m u m continuous motor current.
(b) t o o close t o each other so the discharge airstreams T h e N a t i o n a l Electrical C o d e ( N E C ) , 1 9 6 5 specifies trip
buffet each other (with discharge air ducts t o o close ratings for overcurrent devices. Modifications are per­
t o the inlet—assuming the m o t o r s are m o v e a b l e ) . m i t t e d in N E C - 1 9 6 5 for a m a x i m u m of 1 4 0 percent of the
full-load current rating of sealed (hermetic t y p e ) refrigera­
M o t o r s located in direct sunlight during a h o t s u m m e r
tion compressor m o t o r s and motors marked to have a
d a y , in certain areas of furnace or boiler rooms, or in an
temperature rise n o t over 4 0 ° C , and n o t higher than 1 3 0
industrial plant a d j a c e n t t o heating devices, will also b e
percent of full-load current rating for all other motors.
subjected to high a m b i e n t temperatures. M o t o r s designed
Thermal protectors integral with the motor ( N E C
for special applications, such as canned m o t o r s on sub­
specifies these devices shall be approved for use with
mersible p u m p s w h i c h h a v e their rotor in t h e p a t h of the
the m o t o r s which t h e y protect) should also supervise the
fluid being p u m p e d , involve unusual a m b i e n t conditions
m a x i m u m continuous m o t o r current if the branch-circuit
which require special consideration in setting thermal
conductors, the m o t o r control apparatus, and the pro­
devices. T h i s also applies to fuse elements and thermal
tected system are to be properly coordinated in keeping
devices which are located in oil-immersed starting equip­
with the intent of the N E C ; otherwise separate overload
ment.
protection devices are needed to protect the branch-
4. Frequent Starts o r Jogging. I t is i m p o r t a n t to circuit conductors and the motor control apparatus.
allow t i m e for t h e m o t o r t o cool between successive starts. I n m o t o r s of one horsepower or less with thermal pro­
T h e h e a t energy developed in the rotor winding during tectors applied on the basis of preventing dangerous over­
startup equals the kinetic energy imparted t o the rotating heating of the m o t o r due t o overload or failure to start,
parts. T h e heat energy developed in the m o t o r ' s stator as interpreted b y Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., the
winding m a y be less t h a n or equal t o or m o r e than t h a t trip current is invariably within the rating of the m o t o r -
in the rotor winding. T h e ratio is proportional t o the ratio branch-circuit conductors and control apparatus selected
of t h e respective resistances, which varies from design in accordance with the N E C . T h e r m a l protectors for
t o design. If t h e running period is short, v e r y little of the these smaller motors generally interrupt the m o t o r current
h e a t is carried a w a y b y t h e cooling air. R e p e a t e d starts, directly.
therefore, h a v e the effect of increasing the temperature I n m o t o r s over one horsepower with thermal protectors
and e n o u g h t i m e m u s t be provided t o allow this heat to be " a p p r o v e d " in t e r m s of the N E C Article 4 3 0 - 3 1 ( 1 9 6 5 ) , it
dissipated. Repeated starts must be matched to the should be expected t h a t the protector will trip at current
machine-cooling characteristic at standstill to prevent levels which will protect the m i n i m u m conductors allowed
restarting before t h e windings are cool enough t o accept b y the C o d e . T h i s is i m p o r t a n t because on s o m e ratings
the starting energy and remain within a reasonable of integral-horsepower motors the continuous current
temperature. corresponding to maximum allowable motor-winding
Standard induction m o t o r s rated 2 0 0 horsepower and temperature m a y exceed the rating of the branch-circuit
larger are capable of t w o starts in succession, coasting to conductors a n d / o r control apparatus selected on the basis
rest between starts, with t h e m o t o r initially a t a m b i e n t of horsepower. In these instances, thermal protection
temperature. T h e y are capable of one start with the m o t o r to meet the limitations of percent of motor full-load
initially a t a temperature n o t exceeding its rated-load amperes would need t o be applied on the basis of a lower
operating temperature. T h e s e capabilities assume that winding temperature. I t is, therefore, necessary t o k n o w
the rotational inertia parameter (identified by NEMA the basis of the thermal protection installed in the m o t o r
b y W K ) of the load, the l o a d torque during acceleration,
J
and its a p p r o v a l status so t h a t proper selection can be
the applied v o l t a g e , and t h e m e t h o d of starting are all m a d e of the motor-branch-circuit conductors and control
within t h e values for which the m o t o r w a s designed. A apparatus. T h e r m a l protective devices or overload relays
table of n o r m a l W K of connected load for various m o t o r
a
for larger m o t o r s generally operate to trip the motor

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 contactor or circuit breaker which in turn interrupts the capacitor in single-phase motors, and unbalanced line
m o t o r current. voltage or single phasing in three-phase motors. Current
sensing alone will n o t limit insulation temperature to a
6. Internally a n d / o r F r a m e - M o u n t e d Protective D e ­
safe value for all these a b n o r m a l conditions. T e m p e r a t u r e
vices.
sensing is also needed t o provide protection for conditions
( a ) Three basic types of protective devices. M o t o r
such as blocked ventilation, high a m b i e n t temperature,
protection devices in this category are usually called
jogging, and reduced speed. ·
thermal protectors. They are also known as inherent
overheating protective devices. There are three basic The temperature-sensing capability of inherent pro­

types of these devices in current use t o provide a wide tection devices is dependent on their location. Their loca­

range of characteristics t o m a t c h the differing needs of the tion is in the m o t o r windings or within or on the m o t o r

various t y p e s of electric m o t o r s from the small fractional- frame in such a m a n n e r t h a t the device temperature is

horsepower shaded-pole u p through integral-horsepower subject to changes in proportion t o winding temperature.

polyphase sizes. T h e three t y p e s are 1) devices sensing (c) Devices sensing motor temperature only. De­
m o t o r temperature only, 2 ) devices sensing b o t h m o t o r vices of this t y p e are generally called thermostats or
temperature a n d current, a n d 3 ) devices sensing both temperature detectors. T h e y consist of a thermal element
m o t o r temperature and its rate of change. A l l of these are and circuit-interrupting means. T h e element is calibrated
designed t o be built into the m o t o r and t o be installed b y for circuit interrupting at a fixed temperature value and is
the m o t o r manufacturer. usually automatically reset u p o n cooling after operation

Although each of these three types incorporates a to shut d o w n the m o t o r or t o initiate a signal. T h e s e

thermal element as its operating means, each responds in a devices are usually pilot circuit types connected elec­

distinct m a n n e r to m o t o r winding temperature a n d offers trically in the pilot or control circuit of the magnetic m o t o r

specialized capabilities of application a n d use. controller which controls the m o t o r line current.

A s a group, they differ from thermal overload relays When the controller is provided with s o m e form of
which also use a t h e r m a l e l e m e n t b u t are designed t o sense three-wire control, the m o t o r will shut down after trip­
m o t o r temperature as a function of m o t o r current and, ping of the thermostat and require restarting manually
depending on t y p e of relay used, compensated or u n ­ b y the pushbutton station. If the controller is provided
compensated as a function of relay a m b i e n t . with s o m e form of two-wire control, resetting of the
(b) Motor-winding temperature limiting. Inherent t h e r m o s t a t will automatically cause power to be reapplied
protection devices are intended t o limit motor-winding t o the m o t o r . M a n u a l restarting of the m o t o r m u s t be
temperature to a predetermined value during a b n o r m a l used where specified b y safety requirements or where
m o t o r operating conditions. F o r properly selected and personnel hazard or d a m a g e m a y result because of an
applied devices, this is accomplished w i t h o u t interfering unexpected restarting of the m o t o r . A s pilot-circuit de­
with m a x i m u m planned m o t o r loading. A t the same t i m e , vices, thermostats and temperature detectors m a y be used
m a x i m u m desired temperature and current values m u s t through large integral-horsepower m o t o r sizes. T h e 1965
n o t be exceeded to avoid premature m o t o r insulation edition of the N a t i o n a l Electrical C o d e recognizes em­
failure and to keep from exceeding the m a x i m u m current bedded temperature detectors for running overcurrent
ratings of the motor-branch-circuit conductors and m o t o r protection for m o t o r s larger than 1 5 0 0 horsepower. Vari­
control apparatus. ous thermal elements are used including bimetal snap-
acting elements, resistance coils, semiconductor materials
M a x i m u m temperature limits are determined b y the
such as thermistors of either negative or positive tempera­
insulation system and expected m o t o r life. Commonly
ture coefficient, and liquid- or gas-filled assemblies.
use 1 values are specified in the Underwriters' Laboratories
requirements for thermal protectors. Operation of the various types depends upon the trans­
T h i s approach to protection is related to the fact t h a t fer of heat from the m o t o r winding to the thermal ele­
m o t o r rating has as its basis m a x i m u m allowable winding m e n t . Since heat flow is involved, the temperature dif­
temperature. I t should be noted t h a t disconnect devices, ference between the thermal element and the winding is
conductors, and controllers are selected on the basis of related to the rate of temperature change and increases
horsepower and current. T h i s e q u i p m e n t , when based on with the winding heating rate for a given element mass
horsepower, m a y be a limiting factor in the circuit when and installation.
inherent protectors permit higher loads than indicated b y For running overload conditions, the rate of tempera­
the motor-rated horsepower or current. A d e q u a t e protec­ ture change of the winding is generally slow and the
tion of this e q u i p m e n t m u s t then be provided b y other temperature difference between t h e winding and thermal
m e a n s or the e q u i p m e n t m u s t be uprated accordingly. element is a m i n i m u m . H e r e thermal element temperature
A b n o r m a l conditions which can result in overheating varies directly with winding temperature. W h e n the wind­
include overload, stalling and failure to start, high a m b i e n t ing temperature raises the element t o its operating t e m ­
temperature, restricted m o t o r ventilation, high or low perature, the m o t o r is shut down. F o r stalled rotor, the
line voltage or frequency, mechanical failure of the driven rate of increase in winding temperature depends on the
load, improper installation, failure of start switch or motor design. Thus, thermostats provide stalled-rotor

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 protection only when the rate of rise of winding t e m p e r a ­ Thermal protectors generally are designed so that
ture is sufficiently slow. Thermostats do not provide their electric contacts interrupt t h e m o t o r line current
stalled protection for m o t o r s which are 1) rotor t e m p e r a ­ directly. T h e s e t y p e s are n o w commercially available on
ture limited, or 2 ) stator temperature limited with a rapid motors from subfractional horsepower sizes through five
rate of temperature rise. I n the former, the rotor reaches horsepower, single phase, and a p p r o x i m a t e l y ten horse­
its limiting temperature value before the stator reaches power, three phase. A p p r o v a l b y Underwriters' L a b o r a ­
its allowable limit. I n these m o t o r s , sensors responsive t o tories is limited to their use with specific m o t o r s for which
stator winding temperature will n o t limit t h e higher rotor the thermal protectors are designed, based on tests of the
temperature t o a safe value. I n the latter, t h e m a s s of m o t o r . B o t h manual-reset a n d automatic-reset types are
the thermal element a n d its m a n n e r of installation deter­ available, with the latter designed for m o t o r protection
mines the temperature lag b e t w e e n the element and the even when continuously cycling with m o t o r stalled or
winding. Carefully installed thermal elements of small running.
m a s s reduce this t e m p e r a t u r e lag a n d increase t h e range Current-responsive devices are generally unable to
of rate of heating of the stator winding over which pro­ protect under automatic-reset conditions.
tection m a y be obtained. If there are a n y questions, the (β) Devices sensing both motor temperature and
m o t o r manufacturer should be consulted to establish the rate of temperature change. D e v i c e s of this t y p e are
t y p e of protection provided, t h a t is, whether for running rate-of-rise thermostats usually consisting of a differential
overload alone or including stalled rotor. expansion thermal element actuating a self-contained
W h e r e t h e r m o s t a t s alone are n o t capable of providing snap-acting switch. These devices are generally of a
adequate locked-rotor protection, a supplementary over- pilot-circuit t y p e with the switch connected into the con­
current device such as a thermal overload relay will also trol circuit of the magnetic m o t o r controller. Operation
b e necessary. T h e resulting s y s t e m is then capable of depends u p o n transfer of heat from the m o t o r windings
providing safe winding protection for b o t h m a n u a l a n d t o the external housing of the device which usually forms
automatic restarting on both running overloads and one p a r t of the differential thermal element. T h e s e de­
stalled rotor. F o r a u t o m a t i c restarting, the cutoff will vices are e m b e d d e d in the m o t o r winding t o provide inti­
be b y the overcurrent device on the first few cycles of a m a t e contact a n d o p t i m u m heat transfer. O n slow rates
stalled condition and t h e winding temperature a t cutoff of change in winding temperature, the device is calibrated
will usually increase on successive cycles of t h e t h e r m a l t o open a t a preselected temperature corresponding to the
relay until the thermostat-operating temperature is limiting value of winding temperature.
reached. A t this point, t h e t h e r m o s t a t assumes control O n locked rotor where the rate of temperature change
and keeps the m o t o r deenergized until the windings h a v e is rapid, the differential expansion element heats non-
cooled t o the reset temperature of the t h e r m o s t a t and the uniformly so t h a t its expansion per degree change in
cycling process is repeated. element temperature is larger than when heated uniformly
(d) Devices sensing motor temperature and current. on overloads. Therefore, sufficient m o v e m e n t of the ele­
D e v i c e s of this t y p e are called thermal protectors. T h e y m e n t t o operate the switch is reached at a lower tempera­
are defined in the N a t i o n a l Electrical C o d e , Article 1 0 0 , ture t h a n on overloads. T h i s difference in response is
as follows: " A n inherent overheating protective device called thermal anticipation. I t is this feature which c o m ­
which is responsive t o m o t o r current a n d temperature a n d pensates for the gradient between the temperature at the
which, when properly applied t o a m o t o r , protects t h e location of the t h e r m a l element a n d t h a t of the winding,
m o t o r against dangerous overheating due t o overload or m a k i n g possible locked-rotor protection for this class of
failure t o start." device for higher rates of rise of winding temperature than
T h e r m a l protectors consist of a temperature-sensitive would otherwise b e obtained.
element, a heater(s), a n d electric contacts. T h e thermal
element, for b e s t results, is calibrated to open its contacts
7. Separately M o u n t e d Protective D e v i c e s
a t t h e s a m e t e m p e r a t u r e as t h a t established for t h e m a x i ­ (a) Types of thermal overload relays. A thermal
m u m limiting insulation temperature of the winding. overload relay simulates approximately t h e temperature
M o t o r current flow t h r o u g h t h e heater is used t o raise the condition in the m o t o r winding b y m e a n s of current in a
temperature of t h e t h e r m a l element t o equal the winding heating element which varies with the m o t o r current. I n
temperature. T h i s temperature rise in the t h e r m a l e l e m e n t the event of a m o t o r current of sufficient magnitude
equals t h e temperature gradient between the e l e m e n t a n d a n d duration t o cause excessive heating of the m o t o r
the winding. When the winding reaches its m a x i m u m winding, the heating element causes a control circuit
temperature, the thermal e l e m e n t reaches its operating contact t o open the contactor or circuit breaker in the
temperature, a n d opens its electric circuit t o s h u t d o w n m o t o r circuit.
the m o t o r . Furthermore, locating t h e protector a d j a c e n t I n one c o m m o n t y p e of relay the heating element causes
t o or in t h e winding minimizes t h e heating required b y the heating and deflection of a bimetallic element to
current in t h e protector a n d provides o p t i m u m correlation actuate the contact. T h i s t y p e of relay m a y be either h a n d
of protector a n d winding temperatures. or automatic reset a n d m a y h a v e an adjustable trip cur-

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 rent. F o r another t y p e , the heating element causes the
melting of a low-temperature solder which releases
contact-tripping mechanism. T h i s t y p e of relay cannot be
arranged for a u t o m a t i c reset a n d is n o t ordinarily a d ­
justable. A third t y p e , t h e t h e r m a l induction relay, u t i ­
lizes the flux produced b y a coil carrying t h e m o t o r current
to induce a current in a short-circuited secondary which,
when heated b y the flow of current, trips the contact.
For general-purpose m o t o r s with a 1.15 service factor,
the overload heaters or coils, which are usually of the
replaceable t y p e , are selected from a table provided b y the
relay manufacturer a n d will trip u l t i m a t e l y on a b o u t 1 1 5
t o 1 2 5 percent of rated m o t o r current. F o r m o t o r s w i t h n o
service factor, or for short-time-rated motors, heaters
with a lower rating should be selected as r e c o m m e n d e d
in Section I V - F , D e v i c e 4 9 .
For adjustable relays with replaceable heaters or coils,
the increments in rating are usually such t h a t an ampere
rating sufficiently close m a y be selected w i t h o u t use of the
adjustment. T h e n when installed, if desirable, minor a d ­
j u s t m e n t c a n b e m a d e t o t a k e care of unusual load or
a m b i e n t temperature conditions.
T h e r m a l protection for larger motors is often provided
using switchgear-type protective relays. T h e s e relays are
of t w o general t y p e s :
(a) thermal overload relays incorporating bimetallic ele­
m e n t s connected in current-transformer secondaries,
thus responding to line current;
(b) temperature relays operating from search coils
resistance temperature detectors built into t h e
duction m o t o r .
The operating curves of the relays with bimetallic
elements are designed to approximate the average heating
curve of rotating machines. A s induction-motor heating,
curves v a r y substantially, it is usually desirable for large
or special m o t o r s t o obtain t h e motor-heating character­
istics from the manufacturer and plot the relay and m o t o r
curves to check the protection obtained. S u p p l e m e n t i n g
the thermal relays with other relays, such as a long-time
overcurrent relay, is s o m e t i m e s necessary t o obtain c o m ­
plete protection.
T e m p e r a t u r e relays are useful in supplementing ther­
mal-overload protection b y sensing h o t s p o t temperatures
in larger machines with t h e relay connected t o t h a t t e m ­
perature detector which indicates the highest temperature.
A description of the temperature-sensing detectors is in­
cluded in Section II-A6, Internally and/or Frame-
M o u n t e d Protective Devices.
(b) Thermal protection afforded by thermal overload
relays. F o r m o s t m o t o r s , relays connected in t w o of the
three alternating-current lines m a y provide protection
against d a m a g e t o t h e m o t o r f r o m either a single-phase
or three-phase stalled condition, excessive motor-running
load, and phase failure. T h e r m a l overload relays, however,
cannot provide complete protection against unbalanced
voltages or phase failure. T h r e e thermal overload relays
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are required to protect a m o t o r connected t o a three-phase
the source of power through a delta-wye or wye-delta trans­
former b a n k which is protected b y fuses. I n such cases one
of the fuses can b l o w and the m o t o r will operate with
unbalanced currents. W h e r e these abnormalities can occur,
additional relaying is r e c o m m e n d e d as described in Sec­
tion I I - D l ( c ) .
After tripping, the relay m u s t cool before it can be reset,
and this provides t i m e for the m o t o r winding t o cool.
Because of its smaller mass, the relay-cooling character­
istic is n o r m a l l y s o m e w h a t faster than t h a t of the motor.
If the overload persists and the relay is reset either m a n ­
ually or automatically a t frequent intervals, it is possible
for the m o t o r winding t o attain an excessive temperature.
For this reason, when an overload relay trips, a check
should be m a d e t o see whether an a b n o r m a l condition
exists, such as an overload or phase failure of the power
supply. T h e relay should n o t be reset repeatedly if the
overload condition persists.
For the s a m e reason, relays which reset automatically
should n o t be used with "two-wire control" or with a
circuit such t h a t the m o t o r would be restarted automatic­
ally after an overload trip. A u t o m a t i c reset should be used
only with "three-wire control" which provides "under­
voltage protection" t o prevent restarting until a "start"
b u t t o n or equivalent device is m a n u a l l y actuated.
Thermal overload relays operated b y m o t o r current
will n o t protect m o t o r s against overheating due t o in­
adequate ventilation.
or
(c) Ambient temperature effects. B o t h motors and
in­
controls are ordinarily rated for use in a m a x i m u m ambient
of 4 0 ° C . If the normal temperatures at the control and
m o t o r are different, a heater m a y be used t h a t differs b y
one size for each 1 5 ° C difference in temperature. If the
relay a m b i e n t is higher, a higher rated heater is used and
vice versa.
A n a m b i e n t - c o m p e n s a t e d t y p e of thermal overload re­
lay will h a v e essentially the same time-current character­
istic regardless of its a m b i e n t temperature. T h u s , it will
let the m o t o r carry its rated load regardless of changes
in relay a m b i e n t temperature. For essential drives, this
prevents the m o t o r from being shut down when carrying
its normal load, even though the relay ambient tempera­
ture m a y be abnormally high.
If the m o t o r a m b i e n t is abnormally high, the tempera­
ture of the m o t o r winding m a y also be abnormally high
although t h e m o t o r is carrying only rated load. However,
the life of the m o t o r insulation as far as running current is
concerned is a function of its temperature over a period
of years. A fully loaded m o t o r which reaches an abnormally
high temperature for a short t i m e only on h o t s u m m e r
d a y s b u t runs at normal or subnormal temperature the
rest of the year will n o t h a v e its insulation life seriously
shortened.
T h u s , an a m b i e n t - c o m p e n s a t e d relay will prevent nui­
sance tripping due to high relay a m b i e n t temperature.
W h e t h e r this is achieved without sacrifice of m o t o r in-
sulation life depends on the motor-winding temperature
over several years. I n a n a b n o r m a l l y l o w m o t o r a m b i e n t
temperature the c o m p e n s a t e d relay will let the m o t o r
carry only t h e rated current of t h e relay a n d n o t the
increased l o a d which the m o t o r m a y be capable of handling
a t the lower a m b i e n t temperature. W h e n b o t h relay a n d
m o t o r are in t h e s a m e variable a m b i e n t , compensated
relays m a y n o t be desirable.
(d) Special application problems. For certain d u t y
cycle applications such as cranes, it m a y be difficult t o
protect the m o t o r and at the s a m e time prevent nuisance
tripping because m o s t relays h a v e a shorter thermal t i m e
constant than m o t o r s . A heater large enough to let the
m o t o r perform within its capability on a short-time basis
m a y be t o o large t o protect properly on continuous load­
ing. A c o m p r o m i s e in protection or the use of alarms m a y
be necessary in such cases. F o r the t y p e of d u t y cycles
encountered o n m a c h i n e tools, however, thermal overload
relays h a v e been successfully used.
For high-inertia loads with a long accelerating time,
a thermal overload relay selected t o protect a m o t o r on a
continuous basis m a y trip out during acceleration, or
after acceleration, due t o overshooting in the relay.
higher rated relay m a y be used for acceleration with
s o m e sacrifice of running protection, or t w o sets of relays
m a y be used with t h e relay for running protection shorted
or disconnected during acceleration. Saturating reactors
shunting t h e heaters can also be used to prevent tripping
during acceleration. A n o t h e r solution is t o use a thermal
overload relay designed for long accelerating t i m e such as
certain t y p e s of t h e r m a l overload relays.
T h e r m a l overload relays are also available with either
a " s t a n d a r d " tripping heater or faster tripping heaters
for relays w h i c h are useful for hermetic m o t o r s for air
conditioning or other m o t o r s requiring unusually fast
tripping for stalled protection. T h e selection of thermal
overload relay ratings for hermetic m o t o r s requires special
considerations a n d is usually done b y t h e manufacturer
rather t h a n the user.
B . Fault Protection
1. G e n e r a l Considerations. A fault in an induction
m o t o r can range in current m a g n i t u d e from a high value
t o a l o w v a l u e , depending on fault location, s y s t e m i m ­
pedance, a n d the m e t h o d of grounding.
I n t h e case of h i g h - m a g n i t u d e short-circuit currents,
i m m e d i a t e isolation of the faulted m o t o r is always neces­
sary. H o w e v e r , w h e n the fault current is o n l y a f e w a m ­
peres a n d t h e m o t o r is a critical one, an alarm w i t h o u t
i m m e d i a t e tripping is s o m e t i m e s justified.
Protection devices m u s t b e able t o distinguish between
n o r m a l load, starting currents, a n d fault currents.
T h e m a i n factors w h i c h affect the m a g n i t u d e for t h e
short-circuit currents are as follows.
(a) S y s t e m characteristics:
1) s y s t e m fault c a p a c i t y
2) i m p e d a n c e of the m o t o r feeder circuit
3) the grounding impedance.
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(b) M o t o r and fault characteristics:
1) internal m o t o r impedance
2) the t y p e of fault, i.e., phase or ground
3) the location of the fault in the m o t o r winding.
2. Effect of System Characteristics
(a) T h e problem of detecting a n d relaying faults is re­
duced on s y s t e m s of high fault capacity since there
is less trouble distinguishing between load currents
and short-circuit currents.
(b) T h e impedance in the bus, cable, or line supplying
the m o t o r reduces the s y s t e m fault capacity at the
m o t o r terminals.
(c) I n the usual grounded system the ground-fault current
is a p p r o x i m a t e l y equal to the prefault voltage to
ground at the point of fault divided b y the grounding
or neutral impedance. I n a solidly grounded system
the m a x i m u m ground-fault current is of the s a m e order
of m a g n i t u d e as the three-phase fault current, as­
suming n o fault resistance. For intermediate values
of ground impedance, the ground-fault current varies
between these t w o approximate limits.
A
3 . Effect of M o t o r and Fault Characteristics. Internal
faults in m o t o r s are usually line to ground, or line to line
with or without involving ground. Three-phase faults
t h a t d o n o t involve ground are m o s t likely to occur near
the line terminals only. Faults m a y also occur from turn
to turn in the s a m e phase, or between parallel windings in
the s a m e phase of a multiple winding. Certain types of
faults are m o r e likely to occur than others due to the
details of t h e m o t o r design a n d the application.
A short circuit in a wye-connected m o t o r can be 1) near
the line end, 2 ) near the middle, or 3 ) near the neutral
end of the winding. I n the first case the voltage across
the faulted portion of the winding is the full voltage of
the system. W i t h the fault near the neutral e n d , the
voltage across t h e faulted portion of the winding is quite
small. T h e corresponding short-circuit currents will be
high a t t h e line e n d a n d extremely small or essentially
zero for faults near the winding neutral.
I n a delta-connected machine on a grounded-neutral
s y s t e m , sensitive ground-fault protection can be obtained
for the entire winding, since all portions of the winding
are a t a m i n i m u m of 2 5 t o 7 5 percent of line-to-neutral
voltage a b o v e ground potential.
I n providing protection over the entire range of fault
current, tripping should n o t b e permitted t o occur under
n o r m a l operating conditions. P r o b a b l y the m o s t important
of these is m o t o r starting current. T h i s current is com­
monly a b o u t six times n o r m a l full load. H o w e v e r , it
m a y be lower or v e r y m u c h higher for a particular m o t o r
design. This initial inrush current contains a direct-
current c o m p o n e n t to which s o m e protective devices are
responsive.
4. Overcurrent P h a s e Fault Protection. M o t o r cir­
cuits c o m p l y i n g with the N a t i o n a l Electrical C o d e are
required t o h a v e one overcurrent unit (trip coil, relay,
10
 m
SOURCE SIDE SOURCE SIDE
or fuse) in each ungrounded conductor. For short-circuit
protection of a single-phase m o t o r only one fuse or a
single-pole circuit breaker is required if the second leg of
the circuit is grounded. W h e r e t h e single-phase circuit is
ungrounded, a pair of fuses or a two-pole breaker is used.
I n three-phase m o t o r circuits, three overcurrent ele­
ments should always be applied. T h e s e elements m a y con­
sist of series tripping devices, protective relays, or fuses.
W i t h fuses, the consequences of an open circuit from b l o w n
fuses m u s t be considered.
(a) (b)
Protective relays are used t o provide protection for Figure 4. Grounding of Cable Sheath or Armor when Using
large high-voltage m o t o r s and are connected t o current Toroidal Current Transformer, (a) Circuit transformer may
require corona shield, ( b ) Insulate pothead (if used) from ground.
transformers as shown in Figures 21 and 2 2 . Instantaneous
overcurrent relays h a v e t o be set high enough t o prevent
cancelled out, so t h a t only ground-fault current appears
operation during full-voltage starting. If a lower fault
in the relay.
pickup setting is desired, time-overcurrent relays should
Selection of the o p t i m u m toroidal current transformer
be used. Other overcurrent relays are available with
ratio and quality is important. For m i n i m u m primary-
special combination curves t o provide long t i m e delays
current pickup the ciirrent transformer exciting im­
t o ride over accelerating periods with a short-time char­
pedance (as indicated b y the exciting or saturation curve)
acteristic picking u p a b o v e this point t o provide faster
and relay impedance should be m a t c h e d .
protection in the high-magnitude fault-current range.
Therefore, the lowest primary current pickup m a y not
For wound-rotor m o t o r s where starting currents are
occur for the lowest relay tap with a given current trans­
quite low, the use of time-overcurrent relays gives sub­
former ratio, or for the lowest current transformer tap with
stantially i m p r o v e d protection for short circuits in the
a given relay burden. Primary-current pickup in the range
ranges i m m e d i a t e l y a b o v e the starting current.
of 4 t o 12 amperes is practical utilizing a plunger or induc­
tion-disc relay; a b o u t 1 ampere primary-current pickup
5. G r o u n d - F a u l t Protection. O n grounded systems,
can be achieved with m o r e sensitive relays. T h e latter
phase-fault relays, direct-acting trips, and fuses afford a
should be time delayed t o prevent operation due to un­
certain measure of ground-fault protection. F o r large or
balanced capacitance current flow during external ground
i m p o r t a n t m o t o r s , ground relays should be used to obtain
faults. Figure 4 , illustrates this.
greater sensitivity.
When surge protection or power-factor corrective
Figure 2 0 ( b ) shows a residually connected ground re­
capacitors or lightning arresters are connected at the
lay ( D e v i c e 5 1 N ) . Theoretically the 5 1 N relay sees only
m o t o r terminals, the sensitivity of the toroidal current
zero-sequence current due t o ground faults. I n practice,
transformer ground protective scheme is reduced, since
however, current can flow through this residual circuit
the relay m u s t be m a d e insensitive to the inrush current
due t o unequal outputs of the current transformers e v e n
to the capacitors and t o the arrester power follow current.
without a ground fault. T h i s error current is primarily
T h e relay pickup current m u s t be set above these transient
due to current transformer saturation caused by the
currents, or as an alternative a short-time-delay relay
direct-current component of starting or external-fault
m a y be used.
feedback currents. Slight current transformer m a n u f a c t u r ­
ing variations a n d unequal burdens on their secondaries 6. System Ground Protection. Where a group of
also cause error currents. Because these unbalanced cur­ m o t o r s i s supplied from a substation
1
transformer with
rents are present, it becomes necessary t o use time-delay grounded secondary winding, ground-fault currents m a y
residual relays so t h a t undesired tripping does n o t occur be sensed in the ground-to-neutral connection of the
with sensitive current settings on the relay. If instantan­ transformer.
eous residually connected relays ( 5 0 N ) are used, t h e y are A current transformer with time-delay ( 5 1 G ) over-
likely to trip during m o t o r starting or for feedback for an current relay is inserted in the neutral conductor for direct
external fault unless t h e y are set so high as to be of little and low-resistance grounded systems. T h i s is illustrated
value. b y Figure 5 .
T h e combination of t w o phase relays and one residually A distribution transformer with secondary loading
connected ground relay connected t o three current trans­ resistor and overvoltage relay is e m p l o y e d between trans­
formers is often used t o provide phase a n d ground-fault former neutral and ground to provide sensitive, high-
protection. Figure 2 1 illustrates a m e t h o d of obtaining resistance ground protection. (See Figure 6.) Since the
sensitive ground-fault protection with instantaneous loading resistance reflected into the neutral is multiplied
overcurrent relays, Device 50G. The toroidal current b y the square of the transformer ratio, fault currents
transformer encircles all three phase conductors. This are limited t o a v e r y few amperes. H e n c e the relay m a y
arrangement allows all positive and negative sequence be safely used for alarm or tripping. H o w e v e r , tripping
currents, as well as the direct-current components, t o be is usually r e c o m m e n d e d t o avoid t h e possibility of a

11

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 T H R E E
P O T E N T I A L
T R A N S F O R M Ε RSC

Figure 5. Bus Ground Protection by Current Transformer and

Overcurrent Relay.
Figure 7. Ground Detection Relaying for Ungrounded Systems.

52

52 52

59 6

Figure 6. Bus Ground Protection by Distribution Transformer and

Overvoltage Relay.

second ground causing a n interphase fault. W h e n high-

resistance neutral grounding is used, the sensitivity of
the system ground relaying must b e commensurate.
U n g r o u n d e d or delta-connected systems should
erably h a v e line-voltage rated potential transformers,
with primaries w y e connected a n d grounded. (See Figure
7.) T h e secondaries are connected broken delta across
which a loading resistor is connected in parallel with the
voltage relay 59G. Care should b e exercised in sizing the
resistor in accordance with established grounding practice
and in selecting a voltage relay that is insensitive t o third
harmonics.
7. Differential Protection. Differential relay protec-r
tion is a scheme in which t h e current entering a winding
is matched against that corning o u t of t h e winding.
These relays will thus detect low-magnitude fault currents
during normal loads b u t will n o t trip falsely during high-
magnitude external faults or during starting periods.
Differential relays cannot detect turn-to-turn faults in the
same winding.
Connections for differential protection of a wye-con­
nected m o t o r are shown in Figure 22. T h e relay responds t o
the percent difference between the t w o values. Current
transformers should have matched characteristics and
should n o t b e used for any other purpose without a careful
pref­
Figure 8. Differential Protection of Delta-Connected Motors.
check of the effect o n current-transformer performance.
Three current transformers are located within the switch-
gear in order t o include the m o t o r cables within the pro­
tection zone. T h e other three current transformers are
located in the neutral connection of the motor. Six leads
must b e brought o u t of the m o t o r ; this must b e specified
when the m o t o r is purchased.
Figure 8 shows a connection c o m m o n l y used for dif­
ferential protection of a delta-connected motor and its
leads.
Figure 9 illustrates the self-balancing differential
protective scheme. B o t h ends of each m o t o r winding serve
as the primary winding o f the current transformers; thus,
this scheme can be used for b o t h w y e - and delta-connected
motors. T h e relays (87) see the difference or fault current.
Extremely sensitive phase and ground protection can
be obtained b y using o n l y an overcurrent relay. This

12

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 52

f ft Η DIFFERENTIAL R E L AA Y
Ε RS
3 87/87 Ν γ- τ- τ- CURSE N T TRANSFORM
¡P 3 I NSTRUMENT
^ CURR5 N T TRAMSFORMERS

(: c: c: ft
i. C . (.
<,.
CT { _ ! (
\lT*~vCtt'
["F-x. / " Λ \

^fejj 6
3 SPLIT

CURRENT
WINDING
BALANCE
CURRENT
RELAYS
TRANSFORMERS
A N D

MOTOR

Figure 9. Self-Balanced CurrentDifferential Scheme.

Í ít
4-
3 DIFFERENTIAL
CURRENT
RELAY
TRANSFORMERS

Figure 11. Split-Phase Differential Protection.

To current transformer
In system neutral
or to Y- broken Δ
4 potential
transformer

87- I

87-2

87-Ν

Figure 10. Differential Protection of Split-Phase Wye Motor.

scheme requires t h a t attention b e given t o m o t o r p r i m a r y

terminal connections. T h e cables f r o m the switchgear t o Figure 12. Sensitive Differential Protection with Directional
Ground Relay.
the m o t o r c a n n o t be included in the differential zone un­
less the current transformers are located within the
extrasensitive differential ground-fault protection scheme.
switchgear which in turn requires t h a t neutral leads also
The 8 7 N relay receives its polarizing signal from a cur­
be routed t o the switchgear. O n l y one set of current trans­
rent transformer connected in the s y s t e m neutral. V o l t a g e
formers is required.
polarization is also possible b y using a set of wye-broken-
One m e t h o d of providing differential protection for a
delta potential transformers. T h e 8 7 N relay can be used
split-winding m o t o r and its feeder cable using line current
when the available ground-fault current is limited t o a
transformers of twice the ratio of the neutral current trans­
v e r y low value and is used as an alternate t o the toroidal
formers is shown in Figure 10. A n alternate m e t h o d is
current transformer with 5 0 G relay scheme when the
shown in Figure 1 1 .
toroidal current transformer does not a c c o m m o d a t e the
This arrangement includes a differential relay (87)
cable space requirements.
connected as in Figure 2 2 a n d a second set of t i m e - d e l a y
overcurrent relays ( 6 0 ) connected as shown. T h i s scheme 8. W o u n d - R o t o r Protection. Protection against rotor
requires a t o t a l of t w e l v e current transformers and six slipring flashover t o ground during the starting period is
relays, b u t provides a p p r o x i m a t e l y twice t h e sensitivity provided b y a current relay in t h e broken-delta second­
of that shown in Figure 1 0 . Figure 12 illustrates an ary of wye-connected p r i m a r y potential transformers con-

13

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Figure 13. Wound-Rotor Motor-Rotor Ground Protection.
nected to the sliprings shown in Figure 13. This protection
is not effective at or near synchronous speed since the
induced voltage in the rotor is greatly reduced.
C. Bearing Protection
1. General. Bearings are designed t o minimize fric­
tion between stationary and m o v i n g parts and m a y be of
journal or thrust types for radial or axial loads, respec­
tively. In general, antifriction bearings are used on smaller
motors and fluid film bearings are used oh larger motors,
particularly at high speeds.
2. Antifriction (Ball, R o l l e r ) Bearings. Ball and
roller bearings transmit the load b y direct contact with
rolling action, and have low starting friction. Failure of
this t y p e of bearing usually takes the form of fatigue
cracks on the surfaces of the races and rolling parts, lead­
ing t o spalling or peeling, and destruction of the bearing
follows relatively quickly. Vibration detection m a y be
applicable, although regular audio and visual inspection
will forestall serious conditions.
Overheating m a y be caused b y overlubrication or under-
lubrication and overloading, but thermal protection is not
practicable due to the difficulty of locating heat sensing
devices in the proper places.
3. Fluid Film (Sleeve) Bearings. Sleeve bearings
transmit the load b y a thin film of lubricant which re­
duces the coefficient of friction.
T h e . shaft diameter is smaller than the inside of the
bearing b a b b i t t so that the shaft tends t o lie eccentrically.
Lubricant is supplied at the point of greatest clearance and
is literally p u m p e d into the wedge-shaped space between
shaft and bearing b y the rotation of the shaft, thereby
estabhshing a h y d r o d y n a m i c pressure which supports the
shaft. T h e film is destroyed and friction losses rise rapidly
as metal-to-metal contact occurs when viscosity is re­
duced, speed falls, loading rises, or particles larger than
the m i n i m u m film thickness are present in the lubricant.
T h e inception of bearing failure is accelerated, since the
increase in temperature further reduces lubricant vis­
cosity which acts cumulatively until failure occurs. T h e
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rate of temperature rise depends on the severity of the
fault condition and thermal capacity of the bearing.
4. Bearing Failure. Bearing failure m a y be due to
one or more of the following causes.
(a) Lubricant problems:
1) Incorrect grade or viscosity of lubricant;
2) Inadequate cooling of bearing a n d / o r lubricant;
3) Deterioration, saponification, or frothing of oil;
4) Abrasive particles in lubrication system.
(b) Mechanical problems:
1) Failure of oil supply due t o —
stuck oil rings,
lubricant-pump failure,
low lubricant reservoir level,
fractured oil pipe.
2) Excessive radial loading due t o —
misalignment of shaft and bearings of motor,
misalignment of coupling between motor and load,
improper fit of bearing,
bent m o t o r shaft,
unbalanced rotor,
tight belt or chain drive.
3) Excessive axial or thrust loading due t o —
improper leveling,
improper axial alignment with respect t o magnetic
center,
improper axial alignment of driven equipment
reflected through double helical gear drive.
4) R o u g h bearing surfaces due t o —
fatigue cracks,
abrasive particles.
5) Loose bolts in the bearing cap.
5. Protection. In general, the protection required for
a bearing is to prevent or detect overheating. In order
to minimize damage caused b y bearing failure, protective
devices should b e used t o sound an alarm or deenergize
the m o t o r . Bearing protective devices responsive t o one
or more of the following m a y be included:
(a) L o w oil level in reservoir: Device 71, level switch;
(b) L o w oil pressure: D e v i c e 63, pressure switch;
(c) R e d u c e d oil flow: D e v i c e 80, flow switch;
(d) High temperature: D e v i c e 38, thermocouples, re­
sistance temperature detector, or temperature-sensi­
tive bellows;
(e) R a t e of temperature rise;
(f) Vibration.
T h e low-oil-level, low-oil-pressure, and reduced-oil-
flow devices should be of such a nature as to indicate the
extent of oil level, oil pressure, or oil flow with an alarm
sounding for decrease from normal and shutdown of the
m o t o r for greater losses.
 Prelubricating and postlubricating periods m a y be
e m p l o y e d in the start sequence of larger motors, with a
monitoring timer t o check that satisfactory lubricating
conditions have been established before starting the motor.
High bearing temperature protection is the most dif­
ficult t o apply effectively. A tip-sensitive temperature-
responsive device, either in the bearing babbitt or in the
lubricating oil flowing from the bearing, is generally uti­
lized. Large m o t o r bearings are usually monitored b y
either a resistance temperature detector or thermocouple
device used in conjunction with a complete multiunit
monitoring system for automatic high-temperature detec­
tion and direct reading of all bearing temperatures.
T h e choice of alarm versus trip function due t o tempera­
ture depends on the availability of personnel attending
the m o t o r and the service requirements. T h e rate of
temperature rise of bearings indicates the extent and type
of bearing malfunction. A slow rise in temperature in­
dicates a less serious malfunction than a fast rise. If a high
temperature rise is slow, sounding an alarm only m a y be
satisfactory. If high temperature rise is swift the m o t o r
should be shut d o w n immediately. One type of device
provides an alarm at low temperature followed b y shut­
down of the m o t o r at higher temperature. A n alarm or
shutdown, based on a rate-of-temperature-rise device,
would be the best protection for the high-temperature
conditions.
It should be stressed that the bearing may be destroyed
before the high-temperature relays can operate to shut
d o w n the motor. H o w e v e r , operation of the protective
device m a y save the journal and prevent the rotor from
rubbing on the stator laminations.
Vibration detectors which react to displacement, ac­
celeration, or "impulse," if used, should b e mounted with
the sensitive axis to coincide with the direction of dis­
placement. Such devices are usually deactivated during
startup or shutdown.
D. Protection Against Abnormal Operating Conditions
1. Abnormal Voltage. Operating voltages which de­
viate from rated voltages b y more than the tolerances
given in U S A and N E M A induction m o t o r standards
will subject the motors t o hazards for which special forms
of protection m a y be required.
In the present context, abnormal voltage encompasses
(a) undervoltage,
(b) overvoltage,
(c) unbalanced voltage and phase failure.
(a) Undervoltage protection. A large rotating in­
duction m o t o r rotating at essentially rated speed is
fundamentally a constant k V A device for a given shaft
load and therefore current variations necessarily follow
voltage variations inversely. Balanced three-phase under­
voltage is accompanied b y balanced three-phase over-
current. T h e protection described under Section I I - A ,
Thermal Protection, m a y adequately protect against this
source of damage. This protection is not applicable on
15
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motors five horsepower or less which, due to high magne­
tizing current, will have more current at 110 percent
voltage and rated load than at 100 percent voltage. This
effect decreases with increasing rating and becomes negligi­
ble at about 50 horsepower.
L o w voltage at the terminals of a motor m a y prevent
it from reaching rated speed during starting or m a y allow
it to decelerate or stop and draw heavy currents during
operation. Severe damage to the m o t o r m a y occur in
either case. Some means of undervoltage protection should
be used if the overheating caused b y undervoltage is not
adequately protected against b y other relays or devices.
T h e function of the undervoltage device depends upon
the service which the protected motor is providing. Some
motors are classified as essential and should not be re­
m o v e d from service b y relays which d o n o t protect the
system from the effect of a fault on the motor or its
associated circuit. Quite often the undervoltage condition
is caused b y some abnormality in the power supply system
which requires the continued operation of the motor in
order that the system m a y recover even though the motor
m a y be operating at reduced capability. Power plant
station service is the major area where this condition may
exist. During a system disturbance that reduces voltage,
the system m a y separate and completely collapse upon
additional loss of generation capacity, which can happen if
motors d r o p out on undervoltage.
The successful recovery of the system depends upon
maintaining each unit at maximum capability possible.
In this case the fans, pumps, etc., which serve the unit
must remain in operation even though the voltage is
reduced below a safe value. R e c o v e r y can then be ac­
complished b y suitable operator action.
E v e n if the m o t o r is not directly concerned with the
recovery of normal voltage, it m a y be performing a func­
tion that cannot tolerate a brief stoppage without serious
consequences. This condition can occur in some industrial
processes where an unscheduled stoppage would result
in damage and costs that would far exceed the cost of a
damaged motor. These applications should have the under­
voltage device sound an alarm only. Action is then up to
the discretion of the operator.
Often voltage dips last for only five to twelve cycles
(60-hertz base) duration and, in most cases, n o harm will
be done t o motors if they are allowed t o stay on the line.
If motors are automatically removed during these dips,
expensive shutdowns can be experienced. In applying
protection for such installations, the relaying should be no"
faster nor more sensitive than needed.
If a m o t o r is not classed as essential, the undervoltage
device m a y be connected t o trip the appropriate contactor
or breaker where tripping is allowed. A time delay should
be included to allow faults or system disturbances to
clear before tripping the breaker. The time delay will
depend upon system characteristics but should be ap­
proximately three t o four seconds. T h e same time delay
should not be used for tripping each motor in a station
or plant. T h e diversity in tripping time will prevent the
 OPEN
need t o reaccelerate all of the m o t o r s at the s a m e t i m e . Is CIRCUIT
T h e t i m e d e l a y should be arranged t o trip the least im­
portant loads first. ib

T h e t y p e of undervoltage device used depends u p o n the

MOTOR
type of m o t o r control. M e d i u m - v o l t a g e power circuit
breakers require an undervoltage relay and potential
transformer for the sensing a n d tripping signal. T h e s e are
applied for circuit voltages of 2 . 4 t o 1 3 . 8 kilovolts.
POSITIVE NEGATIVE TOTAL
L o w - v o l t a g e air circuit breakers u p t o 6 0 0 volts al­
SEQUENCE SEQUENCE CURRENT
ternating current can b e equipped with time-delay under­
• - I a
Ic 2 I» 2

voltage tripping a t t a c h m e n t s if used alone.

In switchgear assemblies, an undervoltage relay and
• J/3"Ia,
shunt trip devices with capacitor trip can b e provided t o c, ib, la*
T

protect for undervoltage.

M o t o r contactors d o n o t provide a d e q u a t e undervoltage I a - I a o + I a , +I a i = O ( 0 P E N CIRCUIT IN a - P H A S E )
protection because of the low v a l u e of v o l t a g e at which
Ib=Ie + «'Ia,* »la^-JfS La,
dropout occurs. A m o r e c o m p l e t e discussion on the effect 0

of the m o t o r control is included in a separate section in Ic =I a 0 * « I a + a * l a - - U V T la

2

the Introduction.
Figure 14. Current in Motor Windings with One Phase Open
(b) Overvoltage protection. Operation of induc­ Circuited (Wye-Connected Motor).
tion m o t o r s on m o d e r a t e overvoltage within the tolerance
of m o t o r standards is n o t generally construed t o be in­
jurious t o m o t o r s . O v e r v o l t a g e causes an increased iron If, for example, a m o t o r has a locked-rotor current of
loss and a decreased copper loss (for a given shaft load) six times rated, it has a negative-sequence impedance of
producting a net loss reduction in a m o t o r . I t should be 0.167 on the m o t o r rated input k V A base. If voltages of
recognized, however, t h a t for the larger m o t o r s at a n y 0 . 0 5 per-unit negative-sequence value are applied t o the
given current level, overvoltage produces higher total m o t o r , negative-sequence currents of 0 . 3 0 per unit will
m o t o r losses. Therefore, overcurrent devices will permit flow in the windings. T h u s a five percent voltage unbalance
a higher winding temperature t o occur on overvoltage at a produces a stator negative-sequence current of 3 0 percent
constant current level than at rated voltage. Only a of full-load current. T h i s will n o t produce a corresponding
device sensing winding temperature can adequately increase in line current b u t does h a v e other effects as
protect against such an a b n o r m a l operation condition. described below.
O n starting with overvoltage, the locked-rotor current M o t o r heating is greatly increased b y the presence of
will be higher than rated starting current in s o m e w h a t negative-sequence currents. Negative-sequence phase
greater than direct proportion t o the increase in voltage. currents produce a flux which rotates in a direction o p ­
The locked-rotor relay will protect the. m o t o r against posite t o the rotor rotation. T h i s flux cuts the rotor bars
thermal d a m a g e if the v o l t a g e is n o t m o r e than ten percent at a very high speed and generates a pronounced voltage
a b o v e rated voltage at the t i m e of start. resulting in a large rotor current. In addition, the 1 2 0 -
(c) Unbalance protection and phase failure. Un­ hertz (minus slip frequency) nature of the induced current
balanced voltage and phase failure are identical phe­ produces a m a r k e d skin effect in the rotor bars, greatly
nomena, differing only in degree of unbalance. The increasing rotor resistance. R o t o r heating is substantial
impedance of a rotating m o t o r (as opposed t o a m o t o r at for minor voltage unbalance. T h u s excessive heating m a y
standstill) is constant and balanced, even when unbalanced occur with phase current less than the rated current of
voltages are applied. T h e positive-sequence current t o a the m o t o r .
m o t o r will, after an unbalanced voltage is applied, re­ U n b a l a n c e protection m u s t sense d a m a g i n g conditions
main virtually identical to the balanced load current without responding t o conditions for which the protective
flowing prior t o the unbalance. If for instance the nature e q u i p m e n t is n o t intended t o operate. Several classes of
of the unbalance is an open circuit in a n y phase a nega­ relays are used t o provide unbalance protection.
tive-sequence current will flow which is equal and opposits Phase-balance relays compare the relative magnitudes
to the previous load current in t h a t phase. T h e c o m b i n a ­ of the phase currents. W h e n the magnitudes differ b y a
tion of positive- a n d negative-sequence currents produces given a m o u n t , the relay operates. Sufficient unbalance
phase currents of 1.73 times the previous load in each exists when an open circuit occurs on the load or source
sound phase and zero current in the open phase. T h i s is side of the current transformers supplying the relay t o
illustrated in Figure 14. m a k e it operate, provided the load on the m o t o r prior t o
A small voltage unbalance produces a large negative- the open circuit exceeds a p p r o x i m a t e l y 0 . 6 ampere in the
sequence current flow. The per-unit negative-sequence relay.
impedance of a n induction m o t o r is a p p r o x i m a t e l y equal Phase-balance relays without additional t i m e delay
to the reciprocal of the per-unit locked-rotor current. may cause unnecessary tripping of large m o t o r s during

16

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disturbances on a power s y s t e m . F o r i m p o r t a n t processes, cal failure of bearings of the m o t o r or load, b y low supply
a separate time-delay relay m a y be warranted. voltage, or open circuit in one phase of the supply voltage.
Negative-sequence current relays respond to t h e nega­ I n addition, single-phase motors will fail to start if their
tive-sequence component of the phase currents. The starting circuits are defective. W h e n the m o t o r stator
instantaneous version of this relay, though providing windings are energized with the rotor stationary, the
excellent sensitivity, requires a time-delay auxiliary to induction m o t o r performs like a transformer with short-
prevent tripping on t h e m o t o r contribution t o external circuited secondary windings. Consequently, the stator
-unbalanced faults. T h e time-delay relay is rather in­ winding currents m a y range from three to six or more
sensitive b y comparison t o the phase-balance relay, and times rated full-load value, depending on m o t o r design
will therefore provide less sensitive unbalanced protection. and s u p p l y s y s t e m impedance. T h e m o t o r controller must
Negative-sequence voltage or reverse-phase relays be capable of interrupting locked-rotor current.
respond t o single phasing o n l y on the source side of their U n d e r single-phase locked-rotor conditions for a three-
potential transformers, to unbalanced voltage, or to phase m o t o r , the actual line current in the windings of a
reversed phase sequence. T h e y are particularly applicable delta-connected m o t o r will be full starting current in one
to a bus with substantial static load along with the m o t o r winding and half-normal starting current in each of the
load. F o r an all-motor load, the negative-sequence voltage other t w o windings. T h e heat loss in the stator winding is
relay m a y operate for single phasing even a t zero load. 9 t o 3 6 or m o r e times normal, without benefit of the
For a v e r y small proportion of m o t o r load, single phasing ventilation n o r m a l l y produced b y rotation of the rotor.
of the t o t a l load will be recognized b y this relay a t zero T h e temperature rise of t h e windings is proportional to
loads irrespective of m o t o r characteristics. In general, the square of the current multiplied b y the time (I t),
2

only the m o t o r loads should be tripped when source neglecting slight heat transfer from the windings, so that
single phasing or excessive unbalance is recognized. protective devices m u s t be set t o disconnect the m o t o r
W h e n a three-phase m o t o r is energized a n d one supply before the stator insulation suffers permanent thermal
phase is open, the m o t o r will n o t start. U n d e r these condi­ d a m a g e or the rotor conductors melt.
tions t h e stator winding will overheat rapidly a n d m a y be Overtemperature from this cause can be prevented b y
destroyed. The heating under these circumstances is sensing line-current m a g n i t u d e and interrupting power
similar to a three-phase failure to start except t h e line when the current value is excessive. Since motors require
current is slightly lower (about 0 . 8 6 7 times the n o r m a l a n d can stand an excessive current for a short time during
three-phase locked-rotor current). starting, some t i m e delay m u s t be incorporated in the
If a m o t o r is running at full speed a n d then one supply current-sensing device. Otherwise, it m u s t be shunted out
line is lost, it m a y continue running. T h e current in the during the starting period. T h i s time delay should be
active lines will increase t o a p p r o x i m a t e l y 1.7 times the selected to m a t c h the heating characteristics of the m o t o r
three-phase value for the s a m e load. Unless t h e load on t o provide protection for locked rotor y e t still allow normal
the m o t o r is below the m a x i m u m available single-phase starting procedures.
torque, the m o t o r will stall. If the m o t o r continues run­ D e p e n d i n g on the design, a squirrel-cage m o t o r m a y be
ning there will be extra losses as a result of the dissym­ stator limited or rotor limited during locked-rotor condi­
metry. tions. I n a large proportion of the high-horsepower designs,
rotor heating is the limiting factor. T h e m o t o r m a n u ­
2. Abnormal Frequency. Frequency in excess of facturer can provide the locked-rotor rating only after
rated frequency b u t n o t in excess of standard tolerance the m o t o r design is completed. T h e s e d a t a are usually
without a corresponding voltage rise is n o t considered to provided as a definite time for rated locked-rotor current
be a hazardous condition for an induction m o t o r , provided starting from either rated a m b i e n t temperature or rated
the driven e q u i p m e n t does not overload the m o t o r at the operating temperature. I t also can be given as part of the
higher frequency. m o t o r t i m e - c u r r e n t curve.
A t decreased frequency without a corresponding volt­ Starting times v a r y depending on m o t o r design and load
age reduction, the flux requirements of a m o t o r are in­ torque characteristics. T i m e s m a y v a r y from less than
creased, thus increasing the hysteresis a n d eddy-current t w o seconds to m o r e than 2 0 seconds and m u s t be deter­
losses and heating. Sustained operation at reduced fre­ mined for each application. A n y current relay applied to
quency a n d voltage is n o t permissible if the s u m of the protect against locked-rotor condition m u s t be able to
overvoltage and underfrequency exceeds the standard carry full starting current for a l m o s t the entire starting
tolerances. Protection against this t y p e of operation is period without operating. A l t h o u g h the starting current
usually allocated to the thermal protective equipment, does drop off near the end of the starting time, this effect
b u t m o r e refined protection is possible using an under­ is n o r m a l l y neglected, providing a slight margin of safety
frequency relay. from relay operation during starting.
S o m e motors are designed to h a v e a rated locked-rotor
3. L o c k e d Rotor o r Failure to Accelerate. Failure of current time of fewer seconds than the starting time of
a three-phase m o t o r to start or accelerate when the the drive. T h i s is permissible since during a normal start
stator windings are energized m a y be caused b y mechani­ m u c h of the kilowatt input during starting is utilized

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as shaft load, while on locked rotor nearly all of the starting load has very high inertia or high bearing friction
kilowatt input t o the m o t o r is dissipated as heat loss in t h e after being shut d o w n for a weekend, etc. (when used for
rotor. Therefore, a relay with t i m e delay sufficient to such applications, the relay m u s t be supplemented b y s o m e
allow this m o t o r to start would h a v e t o o m u c h delay t o device such as a speed switch to provide the intelligence
protect the s a m e m o t o r for locked rotor. F o r these a p ­ t h a t t h e m o t o r has started successfully). I n t h e normal
plications, one solution is to include a separate current case, either the m o t o r starts or it does not, and in the
relay for locked-rotor protection which is supervised b y a latter case the stalled-rotor protection disconnects it.
m o t o r zero-speed switch. T h u s , the locked-rotor relay is Incomplete-sequence relays should be provided on
blocked as soon as the m o t o r begins to rotate. starters for wound-rotor m o t o r s as follows:
W h e n a m o t o r zero-speed switch cannot be m a d e avail­
(a) if the m o t o r is used only to start other e q u i p m e n t
able, other measures are necessary. If the locked-rotor
and has a limited intermittent starting-duty rating;
condition is m o s t likely t o happen during operation, an
(b) if the m o t o r is intended for continuous operation
additional current relay normally blocked during the
only at its full-rated speed and has limited capabilities
starting period is used t o trip t h e m o t o r . T h e operator can
at subnormal speeds;
manually m o n i t o r the starting operation t o provide addi­
(c) if such a device is needed to properly protect the
tional protection during starting. T h i s relay can be an
starting resistance of either m a n u a l or electrically
instantaneous current relay set between m o t o r overload
operated starters.
currents and locked-rotor currents, perhaps two or three
times full-load current. Incomplete-sequence devices are n o t required on the
T h e lower current created b y phase-failure conditions starters for variable-speed wound-rotor induction motors.
will increase a relay tripping t i m e and m u s t be considered
in comparison with the heating characteristics of the •5. Out-of-Phase Protection. Induction motors de­
motor. signed for across-the-line starting have the ability to
withstand the mechanical forces developed b y normal
4. Incomplete-Starting-Sequence Protection. A n in­ inrush currents during starting at rated voltage. A b ­
complete-sequence relay is a relay which returns the normally high inrush currents can be produced in a m o t o r
e q u i p m e n t to the normal or off position and locks it out when it is reenergized soon after a power interruption.
if the normal starting, operating, or stopping sequence is M o t o r s 2 0 0 horsepower and less can generally withstand
not properly c o m p l e t e d within a predetermined time. these a b n o r m a l inrush currents. F o r all larger motors the
Incomplete-starting-sequénce protection is provided b y possibility of d a m a g e should be assessed. The inrush
an adjustable definite-time relay furnished on electrically currents t h a t flow under this condition depend on the
operated reduced-voltage and some full-voltage motor resultant of the applied voltage and the voltage generated
starters to protect the machine and starting reactor, b y the m o t i o n of the m o t o r rotor with its magnetic flux.
autotransformer, or resistance against prolonged opera­ T h e phase and m a g n i t u d e of the residual voltage will
tion a t subnormal speed. T h e stator overload relays d o v a r y with the length of t i m e of the power interruption.
n o t provide such protection. I t is usually supplied on The resultant voltage impressed on the m o t o r at the
switchgear-motor starters, except for full-voltage-start m o m e n t of reenergization will h a v e a m a g n i t u d e between
squirrel-cage m o t o r s , and m a y b e obtained o n industrial the s u m and difference of the two c o m p o n e n t voltages.
control and low-voltage reduced-voltage starters. Inrush currents under such conditions with n o power-
One of the reasons t h a t this device is considered basic factor-correction capacitors can be as m u c h as t w o to
equipment on reduced-voltage switchgear starters for two-and-one-half times the m a g n i t u d e of the normal inrush
induction motors is t h a t the starting and running circuit currents for which the m o t o r is designed, depending on
breakers h a v e separately fused control power circuits. the degree of saturation of the m o t o r magnetic paths and
W i t h separate fuses, a portion of the control circuit m i g h t the resultant voltage at the instant of reenergization.
be inoperative, thereby preventing completion of the High-speed a u t o m a t i c reclosure of a single feeder to an
starting sequence. T h i s condition cannot occur on in­ industrial plant can theoretically produce abnormally
dustrial-control-type e q u i p m e n t , because there is a c o m ­ high inrush currents and transient shaft torques in the
mon control power source for both the starting and m o t o r s served b y the feeder due to the high resultant
running contactors of reduced-voltage starters, hence voltage impressed on the motors b y out-of-phase re­
trouble in any part of the circuit would drop out all energization. T h e time of power interruption determined
contactors and automatically prevent injury t o the m o t o r . b y this t y p e of reclosure is approximately 15 to 6 0 cycles
In addition, the incomplete-sequence relay protects (60-hertz b a s e ) , determined primarily b y modern breaker
against a malfunctioning timing relay (transfer relay) tripping and closing t i m e .
which fails t o initiate a transfer from the starting connec­ M a n y tests of bus transfer schemes h a v e established
tion to the running connection. T h i s b a c k u p function m a y t h a t m a x i m u m a b n o r m a l l y high m o t o r inrush currents
be especially i m p o r t a n t in s o m e industrial environments. occur w h e n m o t o r s are reenergized after a 0 . 2 5 - t o 0 . 5 -
T h i s device is not'required on full-voltage-start squirrel- second power interruption. T h e s e tests would seem to
cage m o t o r s except for special applications where the indicate, therefore, t h a t m o t o r s served b y a feeder with a

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high-speed a u t o m a t i c recloser ( 0 . 2 5 t o 1.0 second) relay s u p p l y bus. Other m e a n s of protecting against out-of-
would be m o s t in j e o p a r d y of mechanical d a m a g e due t o phase reclosing are timing, frequency, directional relays,
high inrush currents. Industrial experience, however, and combinations of these devices.
does n o t substantiate the abovementioned implication
of m o t o r d a m a g e . Obviously, probability is an i m p o r t a n t 6. Surge Protection. R o t a t i n g machines present spe­
factor in determining such m o t o r d a m a g e , and on the cial problems in surge protection. T h e insulation of the
basis of experience the probability is low t h a t the resultant stator winding of a n y alternating-current rotating m a ­
voltage will produce d a m a g i n g inrush current. chine has a relatively low impulse strength. T h e highest
T h e m a i n factors t h a t should be considered in weighing test voltage it m u s t withstand is s i m p l y the crest of the
the probability of m o t o r d a m a g e due to a b n o r m a l l y high one-minute high-potential test which has a root-mean-
inrush currents are as follows. square value of twice rated (line-to-liné) voltage plus
1 0 0 0 volts. A l s o the steep-front characteristic of lightning-
(a) T h e critical t i m e for producing m a x i m u m inrush cur­
or switching-produced surges m a y d a m a g e the turn in­
rents u p o n reenergization of a m o t o r depends largely
sulation even though the magnitude of the surge is
on the open-circuit t i m e constant of the particular
limited t o a value which can be safely withstood b y the
m o t o r — t h e larger t h e m o t o r , t h e greater the time
m a j o r (conductor-to-ground) insulation.
constant. The open-circuit time constant of the
T h e relatively low impulse strength of motors indicates
individual m o t o r is an indication of the magnetic flux
their need for surge-protective e q u i p m e n t even though
decay in the airgap and of residual voltage decay of the
they may be connected to exposed overhead line(s)
motor. T e s t s m a d e on m o t o r s of 1 0 0 t o 1 5 0 0 horse­
through apparatus (transformers, regulators, reactors, or
power have established that the critical time for
cables) whose line side is adequately protected by a
m a x i m u m inrush currents varied from a b o u t 15 t o
lightning arrester. A voltage surge of a m a g n i t u d e a n d / o r
3 0 cycles (60-hertz b a s e ) . T i m e s greater than this
steepness of front d a m a g i n g t o m o t o r insulation can be
usually can be considered safe for this range of m o t o r
transmitted through these intervening apparatus by
size. F o r larger m o t o r s , times of reenergization greater
electromagnetic and electrostatic coupling. A s a result of
t h a n this m a y be necessary due t o longer t i m e con­
these circumstances, surge-protective equipment for
stants.
m o t o r s consists of a special (rotating machine) arrester to
(b) T h e inertia constant of t h e m o t o r and driven equip­
limit m a j o r insulation voltage stress and a surge-protective
m e n t , because it determines the deceleration of the.
capacitor t o slope off the surge wavefront to a steepness
m o t o r , also affects the rate of v o l t a g e decay.
tolerable t o the turn-to-turn insulation.
(c) S y s t e m impedance u p to m o t o r terminals affects t h e
A s a m a t t e r of actual practice, there are, of course,
m o t o r inrush current and probability of m o t o r d a m a g e
m a n y m o t o r applications not utilizing or requiring surge
since inrush current is inversely proportional t o the
protective e q u i p m e n t . W h e r e the particular systems in­
s u m of m o t o r and s y s t e m impedances.
volved are inherently shielded from lightning and/or
(d) A group of m o t o r s of various sizes on a bus will de­
receive adequate incidental lightning protection from
crease t h e value of inrush currents a t reenergization
other surge protective e q u i p m e n t and there is a very
because the voltage d e c a y of a group of m o t o r s will
infrequent switching, then n o specific additional measures
be greater t h a n the d e c a y of a n y large individual
are usually taken t o protect m o t o r s from surges. Power
m o t o r . C o n s e q u e n t l y , the kinetic energy of the rotat­
station auxiliary s y s t e m s are usually of this t y p e . H o w ­
ing m o t o r s during a power interruption will b e equal­
ever, surge-protection considerations d o prevail in m o s t
ized a m o n g a n u m b e r of m o t o r s , tending t o increase
of the large-motor applications. T h e following is intended
the total residual v o l t a g e d e c a y of t h e bus, and de­
as the briefest of guides for m o t o r surge protection.
crease the inrush on the larger vulnerable motors.
Refer to the Bibliography for direction t o m o r e complete
(e) Power-factor-correction capacitors on buses or m o t o r
treatises.
circuits and synchronous m o t o r s m a y cause m o t o r
(a) Surge protection of high-voltage motors. Figure
overvoltage during out-of-step reenergization of
15 illustrates the c o m p l e m e n t and arrangement of surge-
motors. Self-excitation during power interruption
protective e q u i p m e n t m o s t generally recommended for
will increase the motor residual voltage, so that
typical large-motor ( 5 0 0 to 1 0 0 0 horsepower and up)
inrush currents of t w o t o three times n o r m a l starting
applications for various t y p e s of lightning exposure. I n
currents can occur. Switching out these capacitors
all cases, the arresters and particularly the surge capacitors
and synchronous m o t o r s during such periods of power
shortest
located at the m o t o r should be connected in the
interruption m a y b e advisable.
possible shunt relationship with the motor major ins
Motor manufacturers recommend reenergization of T h i s requires t h a t t h e associated surge-protective equip­
large motors (200 horsepower, 1200 revolutions per m e n t connecting leads (both line terminal and from ground
minute or larger) when residual voltage of t h e m o t o r s has terminal t o m o t o r frame) be k e p t as short as possible.
decreased t o 2 5 t o 5 0 percent of the rated voltage. T h e Special arresters m a d e specifically for rotating-machine
attenuation of this residual v o l t a g e of a m o t o r can be protection a n d surge-protective capacitors are used at
determined b y a voltage relay on the m o t o r terminals or the m o t o r terminals. T h e purpose of the overhead ground

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 MACHINE
OVERHEAD GROUND WIRE

SYSTEM
3

INTERCONNECTION OF
GROUNDS WHERE fRACTICABLE
C O N N E C T A R R E S T E R AND
CAPACITOR GROUND T E R M I ­
NALS TO MACHINE FRAME <
T O RELIABLE STATION GROUND

Fig. 15. Arrangement of Surge Protective Equipment for Large Motors as Typically Recommended for Various Types of Lightning
Exposure. Note: The usual practice and recommendation is to locate one set of distribution arresters 1500 to 2000 feet (500 to
600 meters) out on the lines. An alternate practice utilizes one set of arresters 400 to 1200 feet (100 to 350 meters) out, with a
second set of arresters an additional 400 to 1200 feet (100 to 350 meters) out.

wire with distribution-class arresters located out on If the protective e q u i p m e n t is n o t located at the motor
exposed circuits is t o limit the m a g n i t u d e a n d rate of terminals, careful grounding of the arrester and capacitor,
rise of surge current arriving a t the m o t o r ( s ) . T h i s does and an interconnection between this ground and the m o t o r
m u c h to ensure the ability of the motor-located surge- frames is very important. If the circuit between the
protective equipment to perform its function satis­ protective e q u i p m e n t and the m o t o r frame consists of
factorily. W h e r e exposure t o lightning is through current- continuous-metallic-sheath cable or the cable is run in
limiting reactors or regulators, follow the protective metallic conduit, the arrester and capacitor ground
scheme illustrated for the cable circuit in Figure 15. terminals should also be connected to the cable sheath
W h i l e t h e m o t o r surge-protection scheme outlined in (or conduit) and the latter should be joined to the machine
Figure 15 secures generally the best practical motor frame. T h e restriction of Figure 15 should be observed.
protection, it m a y n o t be economically justifiable in m a n y (b) Surge protection of low-voltage motors. As
applications of small or relatively u n i m p o r t a n t m o t o r s . indicated by their 60-hertz high-potential tests, low-
Practice has therefore evolved m a n y variations which voltage m o t o r s of 6 0 0 volts and below h a v e relatively
require fewer and/or less expensive surge-protective higher dielectric strength than higher voltage motors.
components. For example, the overhead ground wire on W h e r e such m o t o r s are connected to exposed overhead
exposed circuits is s o m e t i m e s o m i t t e d . O n e modification lines through a transformer which has adequate lightning
accepts location of arresters at a c o m m o n bus or on each protection on the exposed side, n o additional lightning-
exposed source connected to the bus with no arresters at protective e q u i p m e n t is generally warranted. However,
the motors. where low-voltage motors are supplied directly from
A further modification with still lower cost and quality exposed overhead lines, lightning protection should be
of protection accepts location of the protective capacitors provided. T y p i c a l installations of this t y p e include motors
a t the same c o m m o n points in the system. T h i s latter installed in oil fields and in quarries.
arrangement should n o t be used in protecting large higher (c) Ratings of surge-protective equipment. Table 1
voltage ( 6 6 0 0 volts and a b o v e ) m o t o r s because the removal lists ratings of rotating-machine arresters and protective
of the surge capacitors t o t h e c o m m o n b u s n o t only re­ capacitors r e c o m m e n d e d for protection of three-phase
m o v e s the switching-surge protection from the machine m o t o r s and illustrates h o w these ratings are applied at
terminals, b u t it increases the severity of switching surges the m o s t popular circuit voltage levels. N o t e t h a t t h e
created b y the m a c h i n e breakers. T h e s e higher v o l t a g e applicable arrester rating is dependent on the t y p e of
motors are more sensitive t o switching surges than their s y s t e m grounding as well as operating voltage. T h e vast
lower voltage counterparts. m a j o r i t y of m o t o r s are supplied b y ungrounded or re-

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 T A B L E 1
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT FOR ALTERNATING-CURRENT MOTORS

For Installation on Directly

For Installation at Machine Terminals Connected Exposed Overhead Lines

Station Arresters* Distribution Arresters**

Protective Capacitors
Voltage Rating Voltage Rating

Ungrounded Ungrounded
Micro- Single- or R e - Single- or R e - Single-
farads Pole sistance- Effectively Pole sistance- Effectively Pole
Circuit
Voltage
Voltage
Rating Ε er
ase
Units
Required
Grounded
System
Grounded
System
Units
Required
Grounded
System
Grounded
System
Units
Required

0-600 0-600 1.0 3t 600 600 3t 600 600 3

2 400 2 400 0.5 3t 3 000 3 000 3 3 000 3 000 3
4 160 4 160 0.5 3t 4 500 4 500 3 6 000t 6 000t 3
4 800 4 800 0.5 3 6 000 4 500 3 6 000 6 000$ 3
6 900 6 900 0.5 3 7 500 6 000 3 9 000 6 000 3
11 500 11 500 0.25 3 or 611 12 000 9 000 3 12 000 9000 3
13 800 13 800 0.25 3 or 6 15 000 12 000 3 15 000 12 000 3

* Special distribution-class and intermediate-class arresters may be used if economy dictates for small motors 2300 volts and above.
** Intermediate-class arresters sometimes used,
t A single three-pole unit is commonly used.
t Special distribution-class or intermediate-class arresters of 4500-volt rating may be used; with corresponding improvement in protection.
II Use six capacitor units (0.5 M F per phase) where both of the following conditions apply: 1) machine is directly connected to the exposed
overhead lines, is connected through an autotransformer, or is connected through a Y - Y transformer with both Y's grounded; 2) machine
is ungrounded, is neutral grounded through a resistance greater than 50 ohms, or is neutral grounded through a reactance greater than 5 ohms
(60-hertz basis). In all other cases three capacitor units (0.25 ^ F per phase) will suffice.

sistance-grounded systems. M a n y m o t o r s are supplied b y In large-motor installations it m a y be necessary to

four-wire solidly grounded systems. The effectively consult the m o t o r manufacturer to clearly establish such
grounded s y s t e m (i.e., where s y s t e m X/
0 X¡ is between requirements as service factor, d u t y cycle, frequency of
0 and 3 , a n d R / 0 Xt is between 0 a n d 1) for all practical starts, WK 2
of rotating parts, acceleration time, cooling,
purposes in machine surge protection includes the so- bearing lubrication supply, rotor and stator heating rates,
called "solidly" grounded systems. and the effects of surge protectors a n d power-factor-
W h e r e sequence impedance ratios are n o t known, an correction capacitors, if used.
approximate check on degree of grounding can be obtained Selection of the specific protection schemes should be
b y determining t h e s y s t e m ground-fault current (I ) 0 as based on the following factors:
compared to three-phase fault current (/ 3 phase). If
1) m o t o r horsepower rating and t y p e ;
Ιβ/h phase is m o r e t h a n 0.6, the s y s t e m is m o s t likely
2) s u p p l y characteristics—voltage, phases, method of
effectively grounded—if less than 0.6, use ungrounded
grounding, and available short-circuit current;
category.
3) t y p e of m o t o r controller e m p l o y e d ;
F o r unusual operating voltages which v a r y significantly
4) operating characteristics a n d settings of protective
from t h e circuit voltages listed in T a b l e 1, use the lowest
devices between the m o t o r starter and source supply;
rated surge-protective capacitor a n d arrester t h a t m e e t s
5) protective devices monitoring the driven machinery
the following criteria:
or load process;
1) m a x i m u m operating voltage n o t more than 110 percent
6) function a n d nature of the process which determines
of surge-capacitor voltage rating;
t h e importance of the drive;
2) arrester rating at least 1 0 0 percent of maximum
7) environment of motor, associated switching device, and
operating voltage for ungrounded and resistance-
protective devices;
grounded s y s t e m s ;
8) cost of protection scheme relative t o that of the as­
3) arrester rating at least 8 0 percent of m a x i m u m operat­
sociated equipment.
ing voltage for effectively grounded systems.
B. Induction M o t o r Protection T a b l e s (Tables 1 through
III. M O T O R P R O T E C T I O N SPECIFICATIONS 7). T h e purpose of this section is to summarize the
A. G e n e r a l Considerations. T h e complete protection devices available for the protection of induction motors
scheme must be chosen to achieve optimum service employed in general applications. The motor-starting
reliability, safety, and protection of equipment at a e q u i p m e n t and associated protection devices illustrated
reasonable cost. I t is essential t h a t the operating char­ herein are n o t to be regarded as a design specification or
acteristics of the chosen motor-protection s y s t e m be co­ standard, b u t rather as a guide for selection of adequate
ordinated with those of the supply and, if necessary, the protection for a n y general induction-motor application.
process or load involved if selective operation of the A l t e r n a t i v e protective devices are tabulated, the use
protective and control devices is to be achieved. of which m a y be justifiable or preferable depending upon

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 TABLE 2 TABLE 3
Low-VOLTAGE COMBINATION S T A R T E S ( F I G U R E 16) HIGH-VOLTAGE CLASS Ε CONTACTOR ( F I G U R E S 17 A N D 18)

Comptroller: Low-voltage combination starter comprised of either Controller: High voltage, N E M A class E, consisting of contactor
molded-case air circuit breaker, or fused disconnect without power fuses
and magnetic contractor with thermal overload relay
Class E l Class E2
Ratings With Circuit Breaker With Fuses Ratings (Without Fuses) (With Fuses)

Continous amperes 15 to 2000 3 to 2250 Volts 2400 to 4800 2400 to 4800

Volts 120 to 600 120 to 600 Horsepower Up to 2500 Up to 2500
Horsepower Up to 1000 Up to 1600 Symmetrical M V A
Starter size 0 to 9 0 to 9 interrupting capacity 25 to 50 150 to 250
Types of Protection Quantity Designation Types of Protective Device Quantity Designation

Overload Overload and/or Locked Rotor

Thermal overload relay 2 or 3 OL Thermal overload relay 2 or 3 OL
Short Circuit Time overcurrent 1 OC
Circuit breaker instantaneous relay 3 Instantaneous overcurrent relay plus
Fuses 3 time delay 1 TR/OC
Undervoltage Short Circuit
Inherent with integral control supply Fuses, class E2 3
and three-wire control circuit when Instantaneous overcurrent relay,
voltage falls sufficiently to permit class E l 3 OC
the contactor to open and break the Ground Fault
seal-in circuit Time overcurrent residual relay 1 GP
Overcurrent relay with ring current
transformer 1 GP
Phase Balance
the particular application considered a n d the philosophy Phase-current-balance relay (per motor)
and/or 1 BC
of operation. T a b l e 7 lists selected device designations Negative-phase-sequence voltage relay
and functions. (per bus) 1
Undervoltage
Inherent with integral control supply and
IV. S E T T I N G A N D A D J U S T M E N T O F P R O T E C T I V E three-wire control circuit when voltage
falls sufficiently to permit the contactor
DEVICES
to open and break the seal-in
circuit
A. General Discussion. I n the application of protective
relays t o m o t o r circuits, the setting of the device is usually Temperature
Temperature relay, operating from resistance
a problem of getting the best possible protection from the sensor or thermocouple in stator winding
e q u i p m e n t available. T h i s is true because frequently the
characteristics of the protective devices are n o t exactly Note: Select at least one device under each category for which
protection is desired.
m a t c h e d t o the functions desired and, due t o economic
considerations, it is seldom possible to have devices
available t o protect for e v e r y t y p e of trouble or, d a m a g e m a t e l y 80 percent of normal voltage. For cases where
that m a y occur. voltage drop during starting is v e r y great, it m a y be
Since m a n y different combinations of relays and pro­ necessary to adjust the relay dropout t o a lower value to
tective devices are available, a n d m a n y of these devices prevent operation during the starting period. T h e time-
protect for m o r e t h a n one a b n o r m a l operating condition, delay setting for plunger-type devices is normally t w o
the m e t h o d of setting has been detailed for device t y p e to three seconds. For cases where clearing time of faults
rather than for a n y particular protective function for on the source circuits is exceptionally long, it m a y be
which it m i g h t be applied. E a c h of the various types necessary t o increase this t i m e setting accordingly. For
listed in T a b l e 7, D e v i c e D e s i g n a t i o n s a n d Functions, is induction-type relays, where the t i m e delay is propor­
covered. tional to the degree of undervoltage, a t i m e of t w o seconds
for a reduction from n o r m a l t o zero voltage is usually
B. D e v i c e 27—Undervoltage R e l a y . T h i s device or re
satisfactory. T h e relay automatically gives a longer time
lay provides a voltage-adjustable m e a n s for opening the
for a change in voltage from normal to some intermediate
m o t o r controller when the voltage drops below a safe value
voltage value.
for the operation of the m o t o r . I t usually also provides an
adjustable t i m e delay so t h a t m o m e n t a r y voltage dips C. D e v i c e 46—Phase-Balance Relay. T h i s device op­
can be prevented from interrupting the supply source. erates t o trip the m o t o r control e q u i p m e n t if the phase
If the relay is a plunger t y p e , the t i m e delay is a fixed currents b e c o m e unbalanced more than the percentage
period before the relay contacts h a v e reached the d r o p o u t the relay design allows. H o w e v e r , s o m e types h a v e a fixed
position. Induction-type relays, on the other h a n d , h a v e m i n i m u m operating current below which the relay will
a time delay which is inversely proportional t o the degree not operate regardless of the percentage difference in
of undervoltage. current between phase currents. Other t y p e s are provided
T h e dropout of the relay is n o r m a l l y set a t approxi- with t a p s which v a r y the m i n i m u m operating current and

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 ALTERNATIVE
C
FUSED DISCONNECTING SWITCH (PHASE ,
BALANCE)
2 OL

GP
RESIDUAL GROUND

Figure 16. Low-Voltage Combination Starter. Figure 18. Class E 2 High-Voltage Combination Starter.

TABLE 4
Low-VOLTAGE CIRCUIT BREAKER—SERIES TRIP DEVICES
( F I G U R E 19)

Controller: Low-voltage power circuit breaker, manually or

electrically operated with series overcurrent devices

Ratings

Continous amperes Up to 4000

Volts 120 to 600
Symmetrical amperes interrupting
capacity at 600 volts 14 000 to 85 000

Manual operation not recommended where interrupting duty ex­

L
ceeds 22 000 amperes symmetrical
I 2-0L
Types of Protective Device Quantity USASI No.
1 5q I 3-OC
(all direct acting)

Overload
Magnetic relay with adjustable dashpot 3 51
Short-Circuit
Instantaneous magnetic relay 3 50
Undervoltage
Time-delay undervoltage relay 1 27
Figure 17. Class E l High-Voltage Combination Starter.

the sensitivity can, therefore, b e changed t o s o m e degree.
W h e r e taps are provided, the m i n i m u m - c u r r e n t t a p is
the m o s t sensitive a n d would n o r m a l l y b e selected except
when its continuous-current rating is n o t sufficient for the
normal m o t o r running current. T i m e delay in addition t o
that inherent in the relay m a y be required in some critical
applications.
S o m e phase-balance relays m a y represent a large u n ­
balanced burden t o t h e current transformers. T h i s burden
should n o t cause saturation d u e t o starting currents t o
avoid relay tripping d u e t o a "false" unbalanced current
caused b y current transformer errors.
D. Device 47—Undervoltage and Phase Sequence Relay.
This device is similar in its action t o t h a t of t h e single-
phase induction-type undervoltage relay (Device 2 7 ) .
H o w e v e r , it measures the area of the three-phase voltage
triangle and can, therefore, protect against single-phase
starting in addition t o simple undervoltage. T h e device
is so constructed t h a t t h e tripping contacts close if a n y
t w o v o l t a g e leads are reversed; it therefore also protects
the m o t o r for phase reversal. T h e relay is normally set
as indicated for D e v i c e 2 7 , t h a t is, t o close its contacts
when the three-phase voltage is reduced t o 8 0 percent of
normal. T h e t i m e variation is also similar and an accept­
able setting is t w o seconds for a reduction in voltage from
n o r m a l t o zero v o l t a g e .
E. Device 48—Incomplete-Sequence Relay. This de­
vice is a definite-time relay used where a m o t o r is started
on reduced voltage. T h e relay should b e given a time
setting in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions

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 TABLE 5
Low-VOLTAGE CIRCUIT B R E A K E R — R E L A Y S (FIGURE 20)

Controller: Low-voltage power circuit breaker, with protective

relays and electric tripping in addition to or in place
of series overcurrent devices

Ratings

Continuous amperes Up to 4000

1
5 0 / 5 1 and 2 7 Volts 120 to 600
J all direct acting Symmetrical amperes interrupting
capacity at 600 volts 14 000 to 85 000

Types of Protective Device Quantity USASI No.

Overload
Direct-acting magnetic relay with
adjustable dashpot 3 51
Thermal overcurrent relay 2 or 3 49
Time overcurrent relay 2 or 3 51
Short-Circuit
Direct-acting instantaneous magnetic
relay 3 50
Instantaneous overcurrent relay 2 or 3 50
Ground Fault
Time overcurrent relay 1 51N
Figure 19. Low-Voltage Power Circuit Breaker with Series Trip
Undervoltage
Devices.
Direct-acting time-delay undervoltage
relay 1 27

Note: Select at least one device under each category for which
protection is desired.

f\
— 1
Γ Ι "
1
J J ) ' 52
SHUNT
IP COIL)
TABLE 6
P O W E R C I R C U I T B R E A K E R ( F I G U R E S 21 A N D 22)

Controller: Power circuit breaker

Ratings

Continuous amperes 1200 to 3000

Interrupting capacity, M V A 50 to 1000
Volts 2400 to 13 800

Types of Relay Protection Quantity USASI No.

Overload
Thermal overload relay 2 or 3 49
Time overcurrent relay 2 or 3 51
Locked-Rotor
Time overcurrent relay 1 51
Short-Circuit
Time overcurrent relay with
instantaneous attachment 2 or 3 50/51
Instantaneous overcurrent relay 3 50
Figure 20. Low-Voltage Power Circuit Breaker with Protective Percentage differential relay 3 87
Relays, (a) Suitable for ungrounded supply, (b) Suitable for Self-balancing differential relay 3 87/87N
grounded supply. Ground-Fault
Time overcurrent residual relay 1 51N
Instantaneous or time overcurrent relay
such that the e q u i p m e n t is returned t o n o r m a l or off if with ring current transformer 1 50G or 51G
Phase-Balance
the starting sequence has n o t been completed within a Current phase-balance relay 46
predetermined t i m e . Negative-sequence-voltage relay
Undervoltage
F. D e v i c e 49—Thermal Relay Connected for Tripping. Instantaneous undervoltage relay 27
Time undervoltage relay 27
I n setting thermal overload relays it is desirable to allow Undervoltage and phase-sequence
the m o t o r t o carry overloads of a m o u n t and duration relay 47
Undervoltage supervised by negative-
which will n o t d a m a g e it. For this reason a n o m i n a l sequence relay /l 27/47
pickup ( m i n i m u m tripping current a t u l t i m a t e tripping Temperature
Temperature relay, operated from
time) of 1 1 5 t o 1 2 5 percent of adjusted rated full-load resistance sensor or thermocouple
current is c o m m o n l y selected. T h e m o t o r full-load current •in stator winding

should be multiplied b y the correction factor listed below,

Note: Select at least one device under each category for which
and then this adjusted m o t o r full-load current used t o protection is desired.
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 TABLE 7
DEVICE DESIGNATIONS AND FUNCTIONS
(Selected functions adapted from USA Standard C37.2
and N E M A Standard IC-1 for Industrial Control)

52
USAS NEMA
I POT Ε Ν Τ I A L TRANS-ORMIR C37.2 IC-1 Protective Function

2 TR Time-delay relay
Vi727 UNDERVOLTAGE
26
27 —
UV
Apparatus-overheating detection device
Undervoltage, instantaneous, or inverse-time
relay
OVERLOAD PROTECTION 32 Directional power relay
( 2 0 R 3 ) D E V I C E 4 9 0 R 51 38 BG Bearing protecting device for overtemperature
or wear
I NSTANTANEOUS
OVERCURRENT 39 Mechanical-condition monitor, vibration
(2or3) DEVICE 50 46 BC Phase-balance current relay
47
— Undervoltage and phase-sequence relay
Negative-sequence voltage relay
50 G GROUND FAULT PROTECTION
48 IS Incomplete-sequence relay
TOROIDAL CUR RENT
TRANSFORMES A N D 49 OL Thermal relay operated by motor current
NSTANTANEOUS OVERCURRENT (replica), winding temperature, or both
RE L A V OC Overcurrent relay
50
— Instantaneous overcurrent relay
50G
— Instantaneous ground-current relay
51
— Time overcurrent relay

Figure 21. Power Circuit Breaker Motor Starter Typical

51N
— Residually connected ground time overcurrent
relay
Protection. 52 CB Circuit breaker
—
59
Μ
OV
Main line contactor
Overvoltage relay, instantaneous, or time delay
60 BC Current-balance relay (split winding)
63
64 — Liquid or gas-pressure relay or vacuum relay
Ground-fault detection for current flowing
from machine casing or structure to ground,
also slipring flashover detector for wound-
rotor motors
GP Ground-fault protective relay
2 POTENTIAL 71
— Liquid or gas-level relay
Liquid or gas-flow relay
TRAmFORMERS 80
81 —
FQ Frequency relay, operated by above or below
ι UNDERVOLTAGE normal or rate of change of supply frequency
, 47 ANO P H A S E
ι SEQUENCE O R N E G A ­ 86 LO Lockout relay, manually or electrically reset
TIVE SEQUENCE 87 DIC Differential protective relay, operated by
VOLTAGE phasor difference between compared elec­
trical quantities
,„„
2 - T H E RMAL O V E R -
49 LOAD
87N — Differential ground-fault protection, extra-
I - LOCKED ROTOR sensitive detection relay
'50 V ^ 5 03 INSTANTANEOUS 94 — Tripping or trip-free relay, operates to trip
OVERCURRENT a circuit breaker, contractor or equipment.

„ T 87 PERCENTAGE
DIFFERENTIAL relay heaters or coils are listed to provide protection for

ι ^RESTRAINING COILS
m o t o r s having rated currents within a specified current
range.
TEMP
Frequently, these ranges are specified so t h a t the relay
OPERATING COIL
will operate (ultimate trip point) at 125 percent of the
m i n i m u m current and at 1 1 5 percent of the m a x i m u m
current of the indicated range of the relay. If the actual
Figure 22. Power Circuit Breaker Motor Starter Comprehensive m o t o r full-load current is near the m a x i m u m of the listed
Protection For Large Motors.
range and an operating point of at least 125 percent is
desired, then the next higher rated coil or heater would be
choose the heater or coil f r o m t h e relay manufacturer's
required. I n such a case the actual operating point m a y be
table.
somewhat a b o v e the 1 2 5 percent of full-load current
Type of Motor Correction Factor desired.
For relays available for large contactors or purchased
Continuous, 1.15 service factor 1.0
Continuous, 1.0 service factor 0.9 separately for circuit-breaker-controlled motors, the
60 minutes 0.8 coils or heaters will be provided in steps similar t o those
30 minutes 0.75
15 minutes discussed a b o v e . H o w e v e r , t h e y generally h a v e a specified
0.7
5 minutes 0 6 nominal value and a lever arrangement which changes the
n o m i n a l value over a range from 8 0 - 9 0 percent t o 1 1 0 - 1 2 0
M o s t thermal overload relays provided in the smaller- percent of the n o m i n a l value. I n this w a y a continuous
si ze m o t o r contactors h a v e n o adjustable element. T h e range of operating values is obtainable.

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 Having selected a minimum relay-trip value (fixed in
the case of nonadjustable relays or set in the case of
adjustable relays), it is usually desirable t o check a point
on the relay curve t o determine if the applied setting is
reasonably close t o the desired value. T o accomplish this,
a current in the range of 200 t o 300 percent of the set
value is applied to the relay. If the operating time is suf­
ficiently close t o the published relay curve, the setting is
considered satisfactory. If the resulting time difference is
t o o great, the lever setting is varied as required t o bring
the test point close to the required time. T h e use of current
value of 200 t o 300 percent of the nominal operating cur­
rent will normally cause the relay t o operate in the time
range of 40 to 150 seconds, which is considered a reason­
able test time duration.
G. D e v i c e 49—Thermal Relay Connected for Alarm.
T h e method of setting relays connected to provide an
alarm is similar, in all respects, t o that used for relays
connected t o trip. However, it is important to note that
when relays are connected to give an alarm, the fact that
an alarm is given can only be effective in preventing
damage if the alarm is obtained in time to take corrective
action. T h e setting should not be greater than 110 to 115
percent of m o t o r full-load current. Some users set alarm
relays at the full-load current rating of the motor on the
premise that normal load m a y be as low as 75 percent of
rated full load and an increase to rated value indicates
some sort of trouble that should be investigated.
I t should be noted that in m o s t cases the operating
characteristics of thermal overload relays are fixed once
the minimum operating current has been set. Since this
is so, when relatively low settings have been applied or
the m o t o r has an unusually long starting time, a check
should be made to make certain that the relay will not
operate while the m o t o r is starting. If the relay does
operate during startup, it will be necessary to increase the
minimum trip current. T h e relay will then allow the m o t o r
to carry a greater overload than was first selected as a
desirable value.
1. Ambient Compensation. In setting thermal over­
load relays of the replica type, it m a y b e necessary to con­
sider ambient temperature, b o t h at the m o t o r location and
at the relay location. This is particularly true where un­
compensated relays are used and large variations in motor
a n d / o r relay ambients can occur.
Some of the difficulties can usually be minimized b y the
use of temperature-compensated relays. These problems
are discussed in Section I I - A 7 , Separately M o u n t e d
Protective Devices.
H . D e v i c e 49—Relay Operated from E m b e d d e d D e t e c ­
tor. Temperature relays operating on the basis of
measurement of actual winding temperature b y means of
embedded detectors are preferred b y some users for large
motors. T h e temperature at which they should be set t o
operate will depend upon the class of m o t o r insulation and
whether the relays are t o trip or give an alarm. T h e motor
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manufacturer should be consulted for his recommendation
regarding settings.,They are frequently set for tripping
at 10°C below the allowable continuous hotspot tempera­
ture for the t y p e of insulation used.
E m b e d d e d temperature detectors are most frequently
used where motors must operate under adverse conditions
such as widely varying load ambient temperature, fre­
quency of starting, plugging, reversing, or lack of ventila­
tion. Usually the e m b e d d e d temperature detectors sup­
plement the protection provided b y a thermal relay.
Positive or negative temperature coefficient thermistors
•or thermal switches are also available which can be
embedded in the stator winding for temperature measure­
ment.
Relays utilizing both embedded detectors and motor
current (combination) are available to users desiring
this type of protection. T h e manufacturer should be con­
sulted regarding their application and setting.
I. D e v i c e 50/51 ( N E M A OC)—Overcurrent D e v i c e s
1. F u s e s . T h e protection of motor circuits b y fuses
requires the selection of a t y p e with adequate interrupting
ability and a rating which will allow the m o t o r to start
and still provide, for all values of overcurrent, as much
protection as possible for the motor, the branch-circuit
conductors, the disconnecting means, and the controller.
Fuse rating of 150 t o 400 percent of the motor full-load
current are usually required t o allow the m o t o r to start.
In combination starters the fuse time characteristics must
be properly correlated with the time characteristics of
the overload relays so that the overload relays operate
before the fuse in the range of operating overloads of the
motor. Also, the fuse must operate before the overload
relay trips and the contactor opens for values of fault
current exceeding the interrupting ability of the contactor.
In the case of thermal overload relays, the fuse clearing
time characteristic should intersect the overload relay
time characteristic at currents not much greater than ten
times the heater rating to protect the heaters and overload
relay from permanent damage from fault currents in this
range.
If time delay (dual element) fuses are used, select a fuse
having a nominal current rating of 110 to 125 percent of
motor full-load current and such that the fuses will not
open on startup. W h e n used with a controller incorporat­
ing overload relays, care should be taken that the time
characteristic of the overload relay and the fuse are
properly correlated t o permit the overload relay t o func­
tion as intended for operating overloads. This type of
fuse when used as the sole overcurrent protective device
obviously provides a greater degree of overload protection
than does an ordinary single-element fuse. T h e current-
limiting capability of the fuse should also be considered
in making a selection for circuits having high available
short-circuit current. T h e interrupting ratings of the fuse
must be equal t o or greater than the available short-circuit
current at the fuse location.
 Current-limiting fuses are often used to raise the inter­
rupting capacity of a circuit breaker in a fused breaker
combination.
2. T i m e Overcurrent Relays ( 5 1 )
( a ) Induction overcurrent relays. Induction over-
current relays, frequently with instantaneous overcurrent
attachments, are c o m m o n l y applied for protection of
motors. T h e induction element protects for the range of
currents between pickup value and the value at which the
instantaneous attachments or separate instantaneous
relays are set. Since the time setting at m o t o r inrush cur­
rent must be sufficient t o allow the m o t o r to reach rated
speed without tripping, the clearing time for the range of
currents within which it is intended t o protect is relatively
long.
The induction element is usually set t o pick up within
the range from 150 t o 175 percent of motor full-load cur­
rent. T h e time setting is selected t o provide t w o t o five
seconds more than the startup time at rated inrush cur­
rent. T h e amount of time margin will depend upon the
actual motor startup time. If the startup time is in the
five- t o ten-second range, a margin of t w o seconds is suf­
ficient. For a startup time of 40 or 50 seconds, a margin of
five seconds would be desirable.
Users w h o d o not provide thermal overload protection
for motors prefer t o obtain some measure of motor-over­
load protection from the overcurrent relay b y lowering
the pickup value t o approximately 125 percent of the
motor full-load current. In such a case, where the motor
has a service factor, the pickup current would be set at
125 percent of the corresponding m o t o r current. T h e time
setting must in any case be selected t o give the desired
margin of time over the m o t o r startup time at rated in­
rush current.
M o t o r s which drive large flywheels, in addition t o nor­
mal loads, are usually of a special design and have starting
currents in the order of 10 to 15 times full-load rating.
Since the starting-current characteristics of such motors
are not standard, overload protection should follow the
recommendations of the m o t o r manufacturer.
(&) Plunger-type time-delay overcurrent relays.
These are in some cases used in the same manner as
induction-type overcurrent relays. T h e minimum operat­
ing current and the time of operation at rated inrush cur­
rent are selected and set in the same manner as given a b o v e
for induction-type relays.
3. Instantaneous Overcurrent Relays (SO). For the
instantaneous attachment or separate instantaneous re­
lay, if used, the general requirement is that the setting
be as low as possible y e t never operate during the inrush
period. Since this type relay is susceptible to direct-
current offset, the inrush-current value is multiplied b y a
factor of 1.5 t o take care of the asymmetrical-current
value that m a y be obtained. Furthermore, since the inrush
current is usually n o t t o o accurately k n o w n and m a n y
trip devices have a tolerance of plus or minus 10 percent,
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an additional 10 to 25 percent is usually added as a safety
factor when settings are calculated.
Some users prefer t o set instantaneous relays b y actual
operation test. T h e usual procedure is t o set the relay
so that it will trip on startup and then gradually increase
the setting during successive starts until a setting is
reached that prevents tripping for three t o five starts.
Having established this setting, a 10 percent margin in
pickup current or plunger calibration is usually added as a
safety factor. However, the frequency of m o t o r starts
within any period of time should not exceed the motor
manufacturer's recommendations.
Where motors are controlled b y low-voltage circuit
breakers, the instantaneous (or short time delay) trip
devices are usually set b y selecting the required current
value on the calibrated plunger since facilities are normally
not readily available for an actual calibration in the field.
A tolerance of 10 t o 25 percent over the nominal locked-
rotor current value with offset multiplier applied should
be allowed t o take care of the 10 percent calibration
tolerance of the trip device and a small additional margin
of safety.
W h e n molded-case circuit breakers are used, the in­
stantaneous trip m a y be nonadjustable. Hence it is
necessary t o take this factor into consideration when
selecting the rating of the circuit breaker for the particular
motor feeder. If it is adjustable, it is set at the lowest
trip point which allows a safe margin over the calculated
or tested inrush current.
J. D e v i c e SOG—Instantaneous Ground-Current Relay.
This relay, which is energized by current from a ring or
doughnut current transformer around the three conduc­
tors t o a motor, is intended to provide very sensitive
ground-current protection for motors. Since the three-
phase currents in the primary of the current transformer
are balanced, the relay is responsive only to ground-fault
current. M i n i m u m primary-current pickup will occur
when the current transformer exciting impedance and
relay impedance are matched. T h e current transformer
exciting curve and relay instructions provide the informa­
tion needed to approach this o p t i m u m match. T h e lowest
relay tap m a y not give the lowest primary-current pickup.
K . D e v i c e 51N—Residually Connected Ground O v e r -
current Relay. T h e 51N relay is energized from current
in the residual circuit of three current transformers, each
in one phase. Since quite frequently only t w o phase-over-
current relays or t w o thermal-overload relays are em­
ployed, the unbalanced burden on the current transformers
combined with saturation of current transformers during
the inrush period m a y cause incorrect operation of the
relay. For this reason, care should be exercised to ensure
that the tap rating a n d / o r series impedance are such as t o
prevent false tripping. T h e lowest possible pickup is
desirable.
In some cases a large individual m o t o r m a y be supplied
from a wye-connected transformer. In such a case, use of a
transformer neutral current transformer for relay 51Ν
eliminates possibility of relay operation except for actual
ground current flow.
T h e t i m e setting for induction overcurrent relays in
either of the preceding cases should be at t h e m i n i m u m
lever setting.
L. D e v i c e 60—Current-Balance Relay (Split W i n d i n g ) .
D e v i c e 6 0 is an overcurrent relay which is connected t o
operate o n the differential current from current trans­
formers in t h e split windings of a m o t o r . S e t the relay
a b o v e the m a x i m u m error current due t o winding u n ­
balance. T h i s unbalance can v a r y with different operating
conditions, so it is well t o observe the unbalance under
light-load, full-load, a n d starting conditions. Ordinarily
10 percent of full-load pickup will be secure. A delay of
a b o u t 0 . 3 second for 1 0 0 percent full-load current
recommended.
M. D e v i c e 64—Ground-Fault (Flashover) Relay. For
the fast tripping of wound-rotor induction m o t o r s when a
flashover from sliprings t o ground has occurred, D e v i c e 6 4
is used. T h e device consists of a low-current instantaneous-
overcurrent relay, a set of wye-delta potential trans­
formers, a n d a resistor. T h e potential transformers are
selected so t h a t their w y e or high-voltage windings will
be rated equal t o or s o m e w h a t greater t h a n the slipring
voltage. T h e neutral will be solidly grounded and the phase
leads will be connected t o the slipring brushes. T h e relay
and resistor are connected in series across the open corner
of the delta secondaries. T h e resistor v a l u e is selected so
that with the relay impedance it will limit the fault cur­
rent for a solid ground on one slipring t o 2 5 - 3 0 amperes.
T h e relay pickup should be set for approximately t w o
amperes.
N. Device 81—Frequency R e l a y . F o r the protection
of m o t o r s from d a m a g e due t o out-of-phase reenergization
resulting from a u t o m a t i c recloser operation, D e v i c e 8 1 ,
an underfrequency relay, is r e c o m m e n d e d . T h e application
and setting of this device should always b e coordinated
with the utility if reclosing is used.
O. Device 86—Lockout Relay. D e v i c e 8 6 is a h a n d -
reset auxiliary relay for tripping a m o t o r controller or
breaker when t h e tripping is initiated b y a D e v i c e 8 7
(differential relay). The hand-reset feature prevents
reenergization of the m o t o r after such a tripout unless t h e
operator resets t h e D e v i c e 8 6 . T h e device requires n o
setting other than an operation check a t the m i n i m u m
control voltage.
P. D e v i c e 87—Differential Relay. T h e ordinary per­
centage differential relay does n o t require setting in the
s a m e sense t h a t an overcurrent relay does. H o w e v e r , care
should be exercised t o m a k e certain t h a t polarities of the
current transformers a n d relay windings are correctly
connected, a n d it m a y be desirable t o check the slope of
the relay characteristic. F o r self-balancing differential
schemes, relays should be set in accordance with instruc­
tions for setting D e v i c e 5 0 G .
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Occasionally ordinary induction or plunger-type over
current relays ( D e v i c e 5 1 ) are connected in a differential
circuit t o provide differential protection for a motor.
In such a case, the pickup setting of the relay should be
selected t o give the desired sensitivity. T h e value should
be in the range of 10 t o 2 0 percent of m o t o r full-load
current, provided the current-transformer ratio and mini­
m u m relay current tap will provide a setting in this range.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
A. General Information
[1] C. R . Mason, The Art and Science of Protective Relaying. New
Y o r k : Wiley, 1956, ch. 10.
[2] A . R . Van C. Warrington, Protective Relays, Their Theory and
Practice. London: Chapman & Hall, 1962, ch. 9.
is [3] Applied Protective Relaying. Newark, N . J.: Westinghouse
Electric Corporation, Relay Instrument Division, 1964.
[4] G. C. Jain, " T h e effect of voltage waveshape on the performance
of a 3-phase induction motor," IEEE Trans. Power Apparatus
and Systems, vol. 83, pp. 561-566, June 1964.
[5] D . V. Fawcett, "Electric system design for continuous process
plants (protection)," Power, vol. 107, pt. 7, pp. 64-68, July
1963.
[6] -, " H o w to select overcurrent relay characteristics," IEEE
Trans. Applications and Industry, vol. 82, pp. 94-104,
. M a y 1963.
[7] I E E E Committee Report, "Bibliography of rotating electric;
machinery for 1948-1961," IEEE Trans. Power Apparatus
and Systems, vol. 83, pp. 589-606, June 1964.
[8] Eschmann, Hasbargen, and Weigand, Rail anil Roller Bearings,
Their Theory, Design, and Application. München: R. Olden-
bourg, 1958.
[9] A I E E Committee Report, "Survey of induction motor pro­
tection," AIEE Trans., vol. 79, pt. 3, pp. 188-192, June 1960.
[10] C. F. DeSieno and B. J. Beaudoin, " A guide to the application
of capacitors without induction motor self-excitation," IEEE
Trans. Power Apparatus and Systems, vol. PAS-84, pp. 8-15,
January 1965.
[11] R. A . Gerg, "Answer to third overload relay question (motor
protection)," Allis-Chalmers Elec. Rev., vol. 24, no. 1, pp. 11-12,
1959.
[12] V. J. Picozzi, "Factors influencing starting duty of large in­
duction motors," AIEE Trans., vol. 78, pt. 3, p p . 401-407,
June 1959.
[13] D . V. Fawcett, "Optimize protection for 3-phase a-c motors,"
Elec. World, September 9, 1963.
[14] F. P. Brightman, R. R . McGee, and P. J. Reifschneider,
"Protecting a-c motors with low-voltage air-circuit-breaker
series trips," AIEE Trans., vol. 76, pt. 2, pp. 114-119, July
1957.
[15] W . F. Neff, S. H. Horowitz, and R. B. Squires, "Relay pro­
tection of motors in steam power stations with 4-kV grounded
neutral systems," AIEE Trans., vol. 75, pt. 3, pp. 573-576,
August 1956.
[16] J. F. MacMaster, "Design features of an electrically driven
gas compressor station," presented at the PIEA-PEISA Annual
Conference, Galveston, Tex., April 1964.
[17] W . H . Lawrence, "Large electric motors for the petroleum
industry," ΑΕΙ Engrg., March/April 1963.
[18] J. K . Howell, " M o t o r protection, electrical and mechanical,"
presented at the P I E A - P E S A Conference, Dallas, Tex.,
A p r i l / M a y 1958.
[19] D . B . Sleeman and T . F. Bellinger, "Pump motor protection
methods," C P A 62-5018, presented at the A I E E Petroleum
Industry Conference, Cleveland, Ohio, September 1962
(discussion b y D . V. Fawcett).
[20] R . C. Moore, "WK* vs. rotor loss," Allis-Chalmers Elec. Rev.,
vol. 25, no. 3, 1960.
[21] H . C. Barnes, C. S. Murray, and V. E. Verrall, "Relay pro­
tection practices in steam power stations," AIEE Trans.,
vol. 77, pt. 3, p p . 1360-1367, February 1959.
B. Thermal Protection
[22] R . C. Moore, "Protecting motor windings with thermal de­
tectors," Allis-Chalmers Engrg. Rev., vol. 29, no. 3, pp. 24 27,
1964.
[23] R. H . Yerke, " T w o versus three running overcurrent units
for the protection of three-phase motors," IEEE Trans. Power
Apparatus and Systems, special suppl., p p . 517-542, 1963.
28
 [24] W. Τ. Martiny, R. Μ . M c C o y , and Η. B. Margolis, "Thermal
relationships in an induction motor under normal and abnormal
operation," AIEE Trans., vol. 80, pt. 3, pp. 66-76, April 1961.
[25] T. F. Bellinger and R. A. Gerg, "Getting closer overload pro­
tection for polyphase motors," Allis-Chalmers Elec. Rev., vol.25,
no. 2, pp. 32-34, 1960.
[26] Β. N . GafTord, W . C . Duesterhoeft, Jr., and C. C. Mosher, III,
"Heating of induction motors on unbalanced voltages," AIEE
Trans., vol. 78, pt. 3, pp. 282-288, June 1959.
[27] Β. N. GafTord, "Thermal-synthesis relay is best replica of
motor heating," AIEE Trans., vol. 78, pt. 3, pp. 288-295,
June 1959.
[28] J. K. Howell and J. J. Courtin, "Temperature protection for
induction motors—today and tomorrow," Westinghouse En­
gineer, November 1959.
[29] J. F. Heidbreder, "Induction motor temoerature character­
istics," AIEE Trans., vol. 77, pt. 3, pp. 800-804, October 1958.
[30] C. G. Veinott and L. C. Schaefer, "Fundamental theory of
inherent-overheating protection under running overload con­
ditions," AIEE Trans., vol. 68, pt. 1, pp. 266-272, 1949.
[31] A. P. White, " M o t o r thermal protection, machine design,"
The Electric Motor Book, 1961 edition.
[32] V. G. Vaughan and A. P. White, " N e w hotter motors demand
thermal protection," Elec. Manufacturing, February 1959.
[33] "Built-in overheat protection for 3-phase motors," Elec. Manu­
facturing, August 1958.
[34] F. P. Stearns, " T h e case for inherent overheat protection for
motors," Elec. Manufacturing, February 1952.
[35] F. Yeaple, " W h i c h heat protection for the motor," Product
Engrg. September 2, 1960.
[36] A. P. White, "Service conditions in motor protection selection,"
Elec. Manufacturing, December 1959.
C. Fault Protection
[37] R. N. Bell, "Sensitive ground relay protection for 6900-V
motors on a high-resistance grounded chemical plant distri­
bution system," IEEE Trans. Industry and General Appli­
cations, vol. IGA-1, pp. 435-438, November/December 1965.
[38] R. C. Moore, "Fault contributions of large induction motors,"
Allis-Chalmers Elec. Rev., vol. 26, no. 1, pp. 14-17, 1961.
[39] N . F. Shishkin, "Protecting a-c machines from internal faults
in the stator winding," Eleclrichestvo, no. 10, pp. 57-59, 1958
(in Russian).
[40] R. A. Schmidt, "Calculation of fault currents for internal
faults in a-c motors," AIEE Trans., vol. 75, pt. 3, pp. 818-824,
October 1956.
[41] D . L. LaFuze, "Internal fault currents in multicircuit in­
duction machines," AIEE Trans., vol. 73, pt. 3, pp. 1428-1433,
December 1954.
D. Protection Against Abnormal Operating Conditions
[42] Μ . M . Berndt and N . L. Schmitz, "Derating of polyphase
induction motors operated with unbalanced line voltages,"
AIEE Trans., vol. 81, pt. 3, pp. 680-686, February 1963.
[43] H. R. Armstrong and J. E. Mulavey, "Overvoltage protection
and maintenance testing of a-c rotating machines," ΛI EE
Trans., vol. 78, pt. 3, pp. 166-170, June 1959.
[44] "Protection against single-phase running of high-and low-
voltage motors," AEG Mitt., vol. 48, pp. 101-103, February-
March 1958 (in German).
[45] L. L. Gleason and W . A. Elmore, "Protection of 3-phase
motors against single-phase operation," AIEE Trans., vol. 77,
pt. 3, pp. 1112-1120, December 1958.
[46] J. E . Williams, "Operation of 3-phase induction motors on
unbalanced voltages," AIEE Trans., vol. 73, pt. 3, pp. 125-133,
April 1954.
[47] M . R. Chidambara and S. Ganapathy, "Transient torques
in 3-phase induction motors during switching operations,"
AIEE Trans., vol. 81, pt. 3, pp. 47-55, April 1962.
[48] F. P. de Mello and G. W. Walsh, "Reclosing transients in
induction motors with terminal capacitors," AIEE Trans.
(Power Apparatus and Systems), vol. 79, pp. 1206-1213,
February 1961.
[49] D . Dalasta and S. Durand, "High-speed breaker reclosing
can put abnormal stresses on your motors," Power, p. 90,
February 1958.
[50] C. C . Young and J. Duuki-Jacobs, " T h e concept of iu-phase
transfer applied to industrial systems serving essential service
29
Authorized licensed use limited to: IEEE Xplore. Downloaded on August 20,2016 at 14:57:48 UTC from IEEE Xplore. Restrictions apply.
motors," AIEE Trans., vol. 79, pt. 2, pp. 508-518, January
1961.
[51] L. E. Backer, P. Barth, R. A. Huse, and D . W. Taylor,
"Transfer tests on station auxiliary busses," AIEE Trans.,
vol. 74, pt. 3, pp. 1441-1449, February 1956.
[52] D. G. Lewis and W. D . Marsh, "Transfer of steam electric
generating-station busses," AIEE Trans., vol. 74, pt. 3, pp.
322-334, June 1955.
[53] A. R. Kelly, "Relay response to motor residual voltage during
automatic transfers," AIEE Trans., vol. 74, pt. 2, pp. 2 4 5 -
250, September 1955.
[54] G. F. Walsh, "The effects of reclosing on industrial plants,"
1961 Proc. Am. Power Conf, vol. 23, pp. 768-778.
E. Surge Protection
[55] W . W . Lewis, The Protection of Transmission Systems Against
Lightning. New York: Wiley, 1950.
[56] Electrical Transmission and Distribution Reference Book.
East Pittsburgh, Pa.: Westinghouse Electric Corp., 1950.
[57] Industrial Power Systems Data Book. Schenectady, Ν. Y . :
General Electric C o .
F. Settings and Adjustments of Protective Devices
[58] F. P. Brightman, " M o r e about setting industrial relays," AIEE
Trans., vol. 73, pt. 3, pp. 397-408, April 1954.
[59] , "Selecting a-c overcurrent protective device settings
for industrial plants," AIEE Trans., vol. 71, pt, 2, pp. 203-211,
September 1952.
[60] F. I?. Karr, "Squirrel-cage motor characteristics useful in
setting protective devices," AIEE Trans., vol. 78, pt. 3, pp.
248-252, June 1959.
[61] D . V. Fawcett, " H o w to select overcurrent relay character­
istics," IEEE Trans. Applications and Industry, vol. 82, pp. 9 4 -
104, M a y 1963.
G. Standards Publications*
[62] National Electrical Code, 1965, Article 430.
[63] USA Standard for Relays and Relay Systems Associated with
Electrical Power Apparatus, C37.1-1962.
[64] USA Standard for Low-Voltage A-C Power Circuit Breakers
(600-Volt Insulation Class), C37.13-1963.
[65] Preferred Ratings and Related Requirements for Low-Voltage
Power Circuit Breakers C37.16-1963, Table 6.
[66] USA Standard Safety Requirements for Low-Voltage AC Power
Circuit Breakers and Switchgear Assemblies, C37.19-1963,
Paragraph 19-3.5, Application of Low-Voltage A-C Power
Circuit Breakers to Full-Voltage Motor Starting and Running
Duty of 3-Phase, 60-Cps, 40 C Rise Motors.
[67] USA Standard for Manual and Automatic. Station Control,
Supervisory and Associated Telemetering Equipment, C37.2-
1962.
[68] NEMA Standards for Industrial Control, Publ. IC1-196.5.
[69] NEMA Standards for Motors and Generators, MG1-1967.
[70] NEMA Standards Molded Case Circuit Breakers, AB-1-1964,
Paragraph AB1-2.37, Protection for Motors, Motor Starters,
and M o t o r Branch Circuits.
[71] NEMA Standards SG-3-VJ65, Paragraph SG3, 28-9.5, Appli­
cation of Fused Circuit Breakers to Full-Voltage Motor Starting
and Running Duty of 3-Pha.se, 60-Cps Motors.
[72] NEMA Standards for High-Voltage Power Circuit Breakers
SG4-1963, Paragraph SG4-5.06, Breakers for Alternating-
Current Motor Starting.
[73] NEMA Standards for Low-Voltage Cartridge Fuses, FU-1-1963.
* Copies of appropriate Standards Publications can be obtained
from:
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
345 East 45 Street, New York, Ν. Y. 10017
National Electrical Manufacturers Association
155 East 44 Street, New York, Ν. Y. 10017
USA Standards Institute (formerly ASA)
10 East 40 Street, New York, Ν. Y . 10016
The National Electrical Code is available from:
USASI (above) or
National Fire Protection Association
60 Batterymarch Street, Boston, Mass. 02110