Shaded Pole Motor: Overview and Characteristics
Definition:
A shaded pole motor is a type of single-phase AC induction motor commonly used in low-power applications. It is known for its simple design, reliability, and low cost.
Principle of Operation:
The shaded pole motor operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction. It consists of a stator with salient poles and a rotor that is typically squirrel-cage type. The key feature of this motor is the shading coil, which creates a rotating magnetic field.

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Stator Construction: The stator has poles that are "shaded" by a copper band or coilVariable frequency motor. This shading coil is placed on a portion of each pole and delays the magnetic field generation in this shaded area.
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Magnetic Field Induction: When an AC voltage is applied to the stator, the alternating magnetic field generates a current in the rotor. The difference in the magnetic field due to the shading coil creates a rotating effect, which induces motion in the rotor.
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Rotor Movement: The rotor will start to turn in the direction of the rotating magnetic field, causing it to follow the induction from the stator.
Applications:
Shaded pole motors are often used in:
- Small fans (e.g., ceiling fans, table fans)
- Air conditioners
- Hairdryers
- Refrigerators
- Pumps
- Other household appliances
Advantages:
- Simplicity: The construction and design are straightforward, leading to lower manufacturing costs.
- Reliability: Fewer components mean fewer potential points of failure.
- Compact Size: They are relatively small, making them suitable for applications with space constraints.
Disadvantages:
- Efficiency: Shaded pole motors are not highly efficient compared to other motor types (e.g., permanent split capacitor motors).
- Low Torque: They provide low starting torque, making them unsuitable for high-torque applications.
- Speed Variation: The speed of shaded pole motors can be affected by load changes, leading to less control over operation.
Conclusion
Shaded pole motors serve an essential role in various low-power applications due to their simplicity and cost-effectiveness. However, their inherent limitations in efficiency and torque make them less suitable for tasks requiring high performance. When choosing a motor for a specific application, it’s crucial to weigh these factors against the motor’s operational requirements.
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