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Motor Thermal Overload Protection | The Complete Guide

31/01/2025

This is LUPMOTORS' CEO

Sam Nie

Hello every one. This is Sam Nie, the CEO of LUPMOTORS. With 10 year's technical and manufacture experience in the field of 3-phase electric motor, I can provide you definitive guides in the knowledge of 3-phase industrial electric motors,which will help you a lot in selecting electric motors for your applications.

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Motor thermal overload protection plays a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency and longevity of motors in both industrial and commercial applications. Without it, motors are vulnerable to overheating, which can lead to severe damage and operational failures.

Thermal overload protection is a system designed to monitor and prevent motors from reaching dangerous temperature levels. It acts as a safeguard, ensuring that motors operate within safe limits even under challenging conditions.

In this guide, we will explore the fundamentals of motor thermal overload protection, how it works, and the technologies available. By the end, you will understand how to choose and implement effective thermal protection solutions to enhance motor reliability and reduce downtime.

motor thermal protection
PT 100 sensor

Table of Contents

electric motor

1.What Is Motor Thermal Overload Protection?

Imagine your motor is like a marathon runner. It can handle stress, but push it too hard for too long, and it overheats. That’s where motor thermal overload protection steps in—it’s the coach that prevents burnout by keeping an eye on temperature and load.

At its core, motor thermal overload protection is a system designed to detect excessive heat in a motor and intervene before any damage occurs. It does this by monitoring factors like current flow, temperature, and runtime. When these exceed safe levels, the system cuts power to the motor, giving it time to cool down.

Thermal Relays

Thermal Relays

Temperature Sensors

Temperature Sensors

Control Units

Control Units

Key components of a typical system include:

  • Thermal Relays

    Thermal Relays

    These sense excessive current and disconnect power when needed.

  • Temperature Sensors

    Temperature Sensors

    Devices like PTC thermistors or RTDs measure the motor's internal heat.

  • Control Units

    Control Units

    These process the data and trigger protection mechanisms.

Why is this so important?

Without thermal protection, motors risk overheating, leading to insulation breakdown, mechanical failures, and even complete motor failure.

overheating

Overheating

insulation breakdown

Insulation breakdown

mechanical failures

Mechanical failures

By acting as a safeguard, these systems enhance motor longevity, prevent costly repairs, and ensure smooth, uninterrupted operation.

In short, motor thermal overload protection isn’t just a feature—it’s a necessity for keeping motors reliable and efficient.

Video Resources

quiz

Quiz: Test Your Knowledge of Part 1: "What Is Motor Thermal Overload Protection?"

1. What is the primary function of motor thermal overload protection?

2. Which of the following is a key component in motor thermal overload protection?

3. How does a motor thermal overload protection device detect overheating?

4. What happens when a thermal overload protector trips?

5. Why is motor thermal overload protection essential for industrial motors?

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temperature

2.Common Causes of Motor Overheating

Overheating is a motor’s worst enemy. It sneaks up for various reasons, and if you don’t catch it early, the damage can be irreversible. Let’s break down the usual suspects behind motor overheating:

  • Overload Conditions

    1. Overload Conditions

    When a motor works harder than it’s designed to—whether due to excessive loads or prolonged operation—it generates more heat than it can dissipate. Think of it as lifting weights beyond your capacity; strain builds up quickly.

  • Poor Ventilation

    2.Poor Ventilation

    Motors need proper airflow to stay cool. Blocked vents or dirt buildup can trap heat inside, causing the motor to overheat. It’s like trying to breathe with a stuffy nose—not very efficient, right?

  • Electrical Faults

    3. Electrical Faults

    Issues like voltage imbalances, phase loss, or short circuits disrupt the motor’s performance and create excess heat. These are silent threats that can escalate quickly if unnoticed.

  • Mechanical Obstructions

    4.Mechanical Obstructions

    A jammed rotor or tight bearings increase friction, which translates directly into higher heat. It’s like driving a car with the brakes partially applied—things heat up fast.

  • environmental

    5. Environmental Factors

    High ambient temperatures or operating a motor in a poorly ventilated room adds extra heat to the system. This is especially problematic in industrial setups with intense environmental conditions.

Thermal Protection sensor

3.Why Is Thermal Protection Important?

Motors are the workhorses of countless industries, but even the toughest workhorse has limits. Without thermal protection, those limits get crossed, leading to a cascade of problems. Here’s why thermal overload protection isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential.

Benefits of Thermal Overload Protection

lifespan

1. Extends Motor Lifespan

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Thermal protection acts like a shield, preventing overheating that can wear out components prematurely. A well-protected motor can serve you reliably for years longer than one left exposed to stress.

Maintenance Costs

2. Reduces Downtime and Maintenance Costs

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Overheating often leads to sudden motor failures, resulting in unplanned downtime. Thermal protection minimizes these incidents, saving you from expensive repairs and operational disruptions.

Enhances Safety and Reliability

3. Enhances Safety and Reliability

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An overheated motor can pose safety risks, such as fires or damage to connected systems. By cutting power during unsafe conditions, thermal protection ensures safe and consistent performance.

Consequences of Inadequate Protection

  • overheating

    1. Overheating

    Without safeguards, motors can exceed their temperature limits, causing irreversible damage.

  • insulating

    2. Insulation Failure

    Overheating reduces insulation lifespan, with materials like Class A (105°C) and Class H (180°C) typically lasting 20,000 hours under normal conditions.Excess heat degrades the motor’s insulation, leading to electrical faults and reduced efficiency.

  • 3. Premature Motor Burnout

    Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can destroy critical components, resulting in total motor failure. Thermal protection is more than just a safety net; it’s the backbone of reliable motor operation. Without it, you’re leaving your motors vulnerable to costly and avoidable damage.

More Resources

Tip: To get more knowledge about the electric motor insulation, please read this article.

Tip: To get more knowledge about the electric motor ventilator, please read this article.

Video Resources

quiz

Quiz: Test Your Knowledge of Part 2 & Part 3

1. What is the primary function of motor thermal overload protection?

2. Which of the following is a key component in motor thermal overload protection?

3. How does a motor thermal overload protection device detect overheating?

4. What happens when a thermal overload protector trips?

5. Why is motor thermal overload protection essential for industrial motors?

PT1000 Thermal Overload Protector

4.How Does Motor Thermal Overload Protection Work?

Thermal protection mechanisms are like vigilant guardians—they sense when a motor is under threat from heat and act to prevent damage. Let’s dive into how some common types of thermal overload protection work.

Bimetallic Thermal Relays

4.1. Bimetallic Thermal Relays

What Are They?

Bimetallic thermal relays are one of the most common and cost-effective motor overload protection devices, especially for single-phase motors. At the core of these relays is a bimetallic strip, a mechanical device that converts temperature changes into mechanical displacement.

The bimetallic strip is composed of two metal layers with different thermal expansion rates. These layers are bonded together along their length, typically through riveting or welding. When heated, the differing expansion properties of the metals cause the strip to bend or curve in a specific direction.

In a thermal overload relay, the bimetallic strip is heated by the current flowing through the motor circuit. As the current increases, it generates heat, causing the bimetallic strip to bend. Once the strip reaches a specific temperature, it triggers the relay to open, cutting off current to the motor and shutting down the motor circuit. This prevents overheating and potential damage to the motor.

Bimetallic thermal relays are categorized by their trip class, which defines the response time under overload conditions. Common trip classes include:

What Are They Made Of?

These relays typically consist of:

How Do They Work?

🔥
Motor Heats Up
🔄
Bimetallic Strip Bends
🔒
Triggers Switch, Cuts Power
❄️
Motor Cools Down
🔓
Bimetallic Strip Returns, Restores Power

When the motor heats up, the bimetal strip bends as the metals expand at different rates. Once the strip bends enough, it triggers a switch to cut power to the motor. After the motor cools, the strip returns to its original position, allowing power to flow again.

Pros and Cons:

PTC Thermistors

4.2 PTC Thermistors

What Are They?

PTC thermistors are resistance sensors designed to protect motor windings by tripping when the maximum allowable winding temperature is reached. These sensors exhibit a positive temperature coefficient (PTC), meaning their resistance is low when cold and increases significantly as they heat up.

PTC thermistors utilize the thermistor effect, which means their resistance-temperature characteristics are not linear. Instead, they follow a specific resistance-temperature curve, with resistance rising sharply near a critical threshold temperature (see visualization). This behavior makes them ideal for monitoring and responding to temperature changes within motor windings.

When combined with a PTC thermistor relay in the auxiliary current circuit of a motor, the PTC thermistor ensures that the motor shuts down once the limit temperature is exceeded. This method is independent of motor current and solely responds to the winding temperature, offering precise thermal protection.

Key Features:

Temperature Sensitivity

Sharp resistance changes allow accurate detection of overheating.

Reliability

Operates independently of motor current, focusing entirely on temperature.

Integration

Works seamlessly with motor protection relays.

Compact Design

Easily integrated into motor windings for direct temperature monitoring.

PTC thermistors are essential components for protecting motors from thermal stress, ensuring long-term reliability and safety.

Temperature vs. Resistance Relationship:

PTCs show a sharp rise in resistance at a certain threshold temperature. Here’s a simple example:

Resistance Vs. Temperature Curve For PTC Thermistor

Photo: Here is the graph visualizing the Resistance vs. Temperature relationship for a PTC thermistor. The curve highlights the sharp increase in resistance around the threshold temperature.

Types of PTC Thermistors:

PTC thermistors are categorized into two main types: linear and switching.

Linear PTC Thermistors

Linear PTC Thermistors

A.Material

Made from doped ceramic materials, such as silicon carbide or titanium oxide, designed to provide a gradual resistance change with temperature.

These materials exhibit a consistent and predictable increase in resistance as temperature rises, with no sharp transitions. This makes them ideal for continuous monitoring.

Linear PTC thermistors are designed to operate over a wide temperature range, typically between -50°C and +150°C. Resistance increases steadily across this range, with exact values dependent on the specific thermistor.

Constructed as solid ceramic elements with metallic electrodes, often encapsulated for environmental protection.

The thermistor’s resistance increases linearly with temperature, providing precise temperature readings for control systems.

Used in applications requiring accurate temperature monitoring, such as motor controllers, industrial automation, and HVAC systems.

Switching PTC Thermistors

Linear PTC Thermistors

A.Material

Made from ceramic materials, typically barium titanate-based compounds, which exhibit strong PTC characteristics.

These materials display a sharp increase in resistance once a specific threshold temperature is reached, known as the Curie temperature.

The typical switching temperature ranges between 60°C and 120°C, depending on the design. At this threshold, resistance increases from a low initial value (e.g., tens of ohms) to several kilo-ohms or more.

Comprised of ceramic disks or blocks coated with electrodes and encapsulated for durability.

Below the critical temperature, the thermistor conducts current normally. When the temperature exceeds the threshold, the resistance rises sharply, effectively limiting current flow and protecting the circuit.

Commonly used in motor overload protection, circuit breakers, and resettable fuses.

Pros and Cons of PTC Thermistors:

KTY Temperature Sensors

4.3. KTY Temperature Sensors

What Are They?

KTY sensors are temperature sensors with a positive temperature coefficient (PTC), meaning their resistance increases as temperature rises. These sensors are commonly embedded in motors for precise temperature monitoring.

Temperature vs. Resistance Relationship:

For example: KTY sensors exhibit a proportional increase in resistance as temperature rises, providing accurate temperature monitoring. Here’s a simple example:

KTY sensors operate reliably within a temperature range of -50°C to +150°C)., making them suitable for demanding environments. Their wide operational range ensures consistent performance in both extremely low and high temperatures, which is critical for industrial motor applications. Below is a graph visualizing the resistance vs. temperature curve for KTY sensors, showing how resistance changes linearly within this

Resistance vs. Temperature Curve for KTY Temperature Sensors

Photo: The graph clearly shows how resistance increases proportionally with temperature within the operating range of -50°C to +150°C.

Applications:

KTY sensors are used in high-precision applications like servo motors and high-speed motors. Their accuracy ensures reliable temperature monitoring in demanding conditions.

How Do They Work?

KTY sensors are integrated into motor windings. They continuously measure temperature changes and relay data to control systems, triggering a response when a critical threshold is reached.

1
Sensor Integration

KTY sensors are integrated into motor windings.

2
Continuous Measurement

Sensors continuously monitor temperature changes.

3
Data Transmission

Sensors relay data to control systems.

4
Trigger Response

Control systems trigger a response when a critical threshold is reached.

Thermal Protector

4.4. TP Designation

What Is It?

TP (Thermal Protector) is a standardized system for classifying motor thermal protectors based on their function and specifications.

TP Code (TPXXX) :

The TP designation system classifies thermal protectors based on their features and applications. Below is a list of 10 TP codes and their meanings:

TP111

Standard bimetallic thermal protector for small, general-purpose motors.

Enhanced bimetallic thermal protector with faster response for compact motors.

Dual-element protector for monitoring both winding and ambient temperatures.

High-accuracy dual-element protector for precise temperature control in sensitive applications.

Heavy-duty thermal protector for industrial motors in harsh operating environments.

Advanced protector with integrated fault diagnostics for large industrial motors.

Resettable thermal protector with multi-stage protection for critical operations.

Digital-enabled thermal protector with IoT compatibility for remote monitoring.

High-speed motor thermal protector designed for motors operating under continuous load.

Compact protector for space-constrained installations with high thermal endurance.

These codes provide a clear classification of thermal protectors, helping manufacturers and users select the right device for their specific motor protection needs.

Temperature vs. Resistance Relationship:

Thermal protectors demonstrate specific resistance changes with temperature. Here are example values:

These values demonstrate how resistance changes significantly near the critical threshold temperature. Below is a curve graph to visualize this relationship.

Resistance vs. Temperature Curve for TP Thermal Protectors

The graph demonstrates how resistance increases progressively and sharply near the critical threshold temperature.

Material and Composition:

Working Principle and Process:

1
Normal Operation

At normal temperatures, the bimetallic strip remains straight, keeping the circuit closed and allowing current to flow freely.

2
Temperature Rise

As the motor heats up, the bimetallic strip bends due to the differing thermal expansion rates of the two metals.

3
Threshold Activation

When the critical temperature threshold is reached, the strip bends sufficiently to open the contact points, interrupting the circuit and stopping the current flow.

4
Cool-Down and Reset

Once the temperature drops below the threshold, the bimetallic strip returns to its original shape, reconnecting the circuit. Resetting can be manual or automatic, depending on the protector design.

Why It Matters:

TP codes help manufacturers and users quickly identify the right thermal protector for their motors, ensuring compatibility and effective performance.

PT1000 Sensors (RTD)

4.5. PT1000 Sensors (RTD)

What Are They?

PT1000 sensors are a widely used type of temperature measurement device, forming part of the resistance temperature detector (RTD) family. These sensors are essential for precise temperature monitoring in motors, where approximately 70% of temperature measurements rely on PT100 sensors.

The term “PT” refers to platinum, the material used to produce the ultra-fine resistance wire in PT1000 sensors. The number “1000” indicates that the sensor’s resistance is 1000 ohms (±0.1 ohms) at 0°C. This linear resistance-to-temperature relationship is a key advantage, distinguishing PT1000 sensors from other temperature sensors like PTC and NTC thermistors.

Temperature vs. Resistance Relationship:

PT1000 sensors display a highly linear relationship:

Temperature vs. Resistance Relationship:

Photo: Here is the graph visualizing the Resistance vs. Temperature relationship for PT1000 sensors. It demonstrates the highly linear resistance increase as temperature rises from 0°C to 100°C.

Material and Composition:

Key Features:

Wide Measurement Range

Suitable for a broad range of temperatures.

Linear Characteristics

Resistance increases proportionally with temperature, simplifying calibration and usage.

Longevity

Durable and reliable for long-term use.

High Accuracy

Provides precise temperature readings crucial for motor protection.

Ease of Connection

Compatible with various motor control and monitoring systems.

In contrast to PTC thermistors, PT1000 sensors exhibit a highly linear relationship between temperature and resistance, offering enhanced accuracy and ease of integration into industrial motor systems.

Working Principle and Process:

These materials and processes make PT1000 sensors highly reliable and accurate for motor protection, ensuring long-term operational safety and efficiency.

Temperature Detection

As the temperature of the motor winding changes, the resistance of the platinum element in the PT1000 sensor changes proportionally.

Signal Transmission

The change in resistance is measured by an external circuit, typically a Wheatstone bridge or a dedicated RTD input module in motor control systems.

Temperature Calculation

The measured resistance value is converted into a temperature reading using a standardized calibration curve, such as IEC 60751.

Feedback and Protection

The temperature data is used to trigger protective mechanisms, like reducing motor load or shutting it down, if the temperature exceeds safe operating limits.

Applications:

These sensors are ideal for industrial motors requiring precise temperature monitoring, especially in extreme environments.

Digital Thermal Protection Systems

4.6. Digital Thermal Protection Systems

What Are They?

Digital thermal protection systems are advanced devices designed to monitor and protect motor windings from overheating. Unlike traditional bimetallic thermal relays, these systems use electronic components and microprocessors to achieve precise and real-time protection.

A key feature of digital thermal protectors is their ability to measure the current flowing into the motor windings. Using the formula I²t, they calculate the temperature rise in the windings, providing an accurate estimation of thermal stress. This approach ensures that protection is tailored to the specific characteristics of the motor, including its load and operating conditions.

Digital systems also allow users to select motor protection curves that match the thermal behavior of the protected windings. These curves ensure that the system responds appropriately to various overload conditions, preventing damage while minimizing unnecessary shutdowns.

The combination of current monitoring, temperature calculation, and customizable protection curves makes digital thermal protection systems a superior choice for modern motor management.

Material and Composition:

Temperature Sensors

High-precision thermistors or RTDs (like PT1000) are embedded to monitor temperature changes.

Acts as the brain, processing temperature data and controlling protection actions.

Include amplifiers and analog-to-digital converters to enhance signal accuracy.

High-durability polymers or metals protect the internal electronics from environmental factors like heat and moisture.

Ensure compatibility with external systems like IoT platforms or motor controllers.

Temperature vs. Resistance Relationship:

Digital thermal protection systems often use sensors like thermistors with specific resistance-temperature behaviors. For example:

These values illustrate how resistance decreases as temperature rises, following a non-linear curve. Below is a graph visualizing this relationship.

Resistance vs. Temperature Curve for Digital Thermal Protection Systems

The updated graph visualizes the Resistance vs. Temperature relationship for sensors used in Digital Thermal Protection Systems. It demonstrates the non-linear decrease in resistance as temperature rises.

Working Principle and Process:

Digital Thermal Protection Systems Flowchart

Digital Thermal Protection Systems Operation Principles

Temperature Sensing

Digital systems use embedded sensors to continuously monitor motor temperatures.

Signal Processing

The analog temperature data is converted into digital signals via integrated circuits.

Data Analysis

The microcontroller analyzes the temperature readings against pre-set thresholds.

Protective Action

If the temperature exceeds safe limits, the system triggers actions like reducing motor speed, shutting down the motor, or sending alerts to connected devices.

Feedback Loop

The system continuously updates and adjusts based on real-time temperature data, enabling predictive maintenance and avoiding critical failures.

Key Features:

Applications:

Digital thermal protection systems are widely used across various industries and applications:

Benefits Over Traditional Systems:

Digital thermal protection systems are widely used across various industries and applications:

More Resources

Tip: To get more knowledge about the Motor Thermal Overload Protection, please read this article.

quiz

Quiz: Test Your Knowledge of Part 4: "How Does Motor Thermal Overload Protection Work?"

1. What is the primary purpose of motor thermal overload protection?

2. Which component is commonly used in bimetallic thermal relays?

3. What happens when a PTC thermistor reaches its threshold temperature?

4. Which of the following thermal protection methods uses a platinum-based resistance element?

5. How do switching PTC thermistors respond to temperature changes?

6. What is the role of a digital thermal protection system?

Thermal Protector

5. How to Choose the Right Thermal Protector

Selecting the appropriate thermal protector is essential to ensure effective motor protection and prevent potential damage caused by mismatched components. Below are key factors to consider when choosing a thermal protector:

1

Determine Voltage and Current Ratings

A. Voltage: Choose a thermal protector rated for the motor’s operating voltage.

  • For example: A 380V motor requires a protector rated for at least 380V.
  • Protectors with higher voltage ratings can be used for lower voltage motors (e.g., a 220V protector for a 110V motor).
B. Current: Ensure the protector’s current rating exceeds the motor’s startup current, operating current, and locked-rotor current.
  • For instance: A motor with a normal operating current of 1A, startup current of 1.5A, and locked-rotor current of 2A requires a protector rated for at least 3A to allow a safety margin.

2

Select the Correct Protection Temperature

A. Protection Temperature: Depends on the motor’s insulation class and installation method.

  • For example: For F-class insulation (maximum temperature 155°C), choose a protector with a setpoint slightly below the maximum, such as 145°C.
  • If the protector is installed externally, consider the temperature difference between the motor’s internal and external environment.
B. Different Protector Types:
  • Pure Temperature Protectors: React only to temperature changes and do not account for current flow.
  • Temperature-Current Protectors: Combine temperature sensing with current flow effects for precise trip points. For example, increase the setpoint by 10°C if current-induced heating affects the tripping temperature.

3

Evaluate Protector Longevity

A. Consider the motor’s locked-rotor testing requirements:

  • Domestic motors with standard locked-rotor tests (e.g., 18 days) may only need protectors with 2000 operating cycles.
  • Heavy-duty applications, like water pumps with extended locked-rotor times, may require protectors rated for thousands of cycles.

4

Ensure Sealing Performance

A. Sealing Performance: Protectors must resist insulation varnish infiltration during motor manufacturing processes like dipping or vacuum impregnation. Choose protectors with high sealing performance to avoid failure.

  • For example: A high-sealing protector should withstand vacuum impregnation pressures of -0.08 MPa with minimal varnish penetration.

faq

7. FAQs

1. What Happens If a Motor Overheats?

When a motor overheats, it can lead to insulation damage, mechanical component failures, and complete motor burnout. Overheating reduces motor efficiency, shortens lifespan, and can result in costly repairs or downtime.

2. How Can You Tell If a Thermal Protector Is Faulty?

A faulty thermal protector may fail to trip during overheating, trip unnecessarily, or show physical damage like cracks or discoloration. Testing with a multimeter or consulting the manufacturer’s diagnostics can confirm its condition.

Why are brushed motors so inefficient?

Brushed motors lose energy due to friction between the brushes and commutator. This friction generates heat, which reduces overall efficiency. Additionally, the constant contact creates wear and tear, further affecting performance over time.

3. Are Thermal Overload Relays Reusable?

Yes, most thermal overload relays are reusable. They reset automatically after the motor cools down, though some may require manual resetting. Frequent tripping could indicate an underlying issue that needs attention.

4. How Do Digital Thermal Protection Systems Differ from Traditional Ones?

Digital systems provide precise temperature monitoring, real-time data, and predictive maintenance capabilities. Traditional systems, while reliable, lack the advanced features and connectivity of digital solutions.

We offer customized motor solutions to meet your specific application requirements

LUPMOTORS offers ac low voltage 3-phase asynchronous industrial motors of all types – Please contact us freely.

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