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State the function of centrifugal switch in single phase induction motor.

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The centrifugal switch in a **single-phase induction motor** plays a crucial role in starting the motor. Its primary function is to disconnect the starting winding (or auxiliary winding) from the circuit once the motor reaches a certain speed, ensuring the motor runs efficiently.

Here's a detailed explanation of its function:

### 1. **Starting Phase**:
In a single-phase induction motor, the motor cannot start by itself because the single-phase power supply creates a pulsating magnetic field rather than a rotating one. To overcome this, the motor uses **two windings**:
   - **Main winding**: Always connected to the power supply.
   - **Starting winding** (auxiliary winding): Temporarily connected to provide the phase difference necessary to create a rotating magnetic field at startup.

The starting winding is typically connected in series with a capacitor or a resistor to create a phase shift, generating the required torque to start the motor.

### 2. **Role of the Centrifugal Switch**:
The starting winding is only necessary for the initial start of the motor. Once the motor reaches about **70-80% of its full speed**, the centrifugal switch activates and disconnects the starting winding. This is necessary because the starting winding is not designed to handle continuous current flow; if it stayed connected, it could overheat and get damaged.

### 3. **How It Works**:
The centrifugal switch is mechanically linked to the motor's shaft and is sensitive to the rotational speed. It works as follows:
   - When the motor starts from rest, the centrifugal switch is in the **closed position**, allowing current to flow to the starting winding.
   - As the motor speeds up, the centrifugal force generated by the spinning rotor causes the switch to **open** when the motor reaches a predetermined speed.
   - This action **disconnects** the starting winding from the circuit, leaving only the main winding to keep the motor running.

### 4. **Benefits of the Centrifugal Switch**:
   - **Efficient Operation**: By disconnecting the starting winding at the right time, the motor can run efficiently without extra load or heat.
   - **Prevents Damage**: It protects the starting winding from burning out due to continuous current flow.
   - **Energy Saving**: Once the motor reaches its operating speed, it doesn't need the extra current from the starting winding, saving energy.

### 5. **Failure of the Centrifugal Switch**:
If the centrifugal switch fails, two main problems can occur:
   - **If it fails to open**: The starting winding will remain connected, causing overheating, reduced efficiency, and eventual burnout of the winding.
   - **If it fails to close**: The motor will have difficulty starting or won't start at all because the starting winding won't be connected to the circuit.

### In summary:
The centrifugal switch is vital in ensuring that the starting winding is used only when necessary. It helps initiate the motor's startup and then cuts off the winding once the motor has reached sufficient speed, preventing damage and improving overall efficiency.
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The centrifugal switch is a crucial component in single-phase induction motors, particularly those used in household appliances and small machinery. Its primary function is to manage the transition between the motor's starting and running conditions. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its role:

### 1. **Motor Starting Mechanism**

Single-phase induction motors generally require a starting mechanism because they cannot start themselves due to the lack of a rotating magnetic field in a single-phase supply. To overcome this, these motors are often equipped with a start winding and a centrifugal switch.

- **Start Winding**: This is an additional winding placed in parallel with the main winding. It provides extra torque to start the motor.
- **Centrifugal Switch**: The switch is connected to the motor's rotor and operates based on centrifugal force.

### 2. **Operation of the Centrifugal Switch**

When the motor is at rest and the power is applied, the centrifugal switch is in its closed position. This position allows current to flow through the start winding, which creates the necessary initial torque to get the motor spinning.

- **At Start-Up**: When the motor starts, the rotor begins to turn. The centrifugal switch, which is mechanically connected to the rotor shaft, is designed to open once the motor reaches a certain speed (typically around 70-80% of the full speed). The centrifugal force generated by the rotating shaft causes the switch to move from its closed position to an open position.

### 3. **Disconnection of the Start Winding**

Once the centrifugal switch opens, it disconnects the start winding from the circuit. The motor then continues to run using only the main winding.

- **Running Condition**: With the start winding disconnected, the motor operates more efficiently as it is now running solely on the main winding. This is because the start winding is designed for brief operation and can overheat if left in the circuit continuously.

### 4. **Prevention of Overheating**

By disconnecting the start winding once the motor is up to speed, the centrifugal switch prevents potential overheating and damage that could occur if the start winding remained energized while the motor is running.

### 5. **Safety and Longevity**

The centrifugal switch also contributes to the motor's safety and longevity by ensuring that the start winding is not subjected to prolonged current flow. This helps in preventing premature failure and extends the motor's overall service life.

### **Summary**

In essence, the centrifugal switch in a single-phase induction motor:

- Provides the necessary starting torque by energizing the start winding.
- Automatically disconnects the start winding once the motor reaches operational speed.
- Prevents overheating and ensures efficient motor operation.

This mechanism is essential for the reliable and efficient performance of single-phase induction motors in various applications.
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