FAQ
TL;DR: Using IEC frame tables, a 28 mm shaft (frame 132) typically delivers 5 – 7.5 kW at 1 500 rpm [IEC 60072]. “The diameter of the shaft also proves its power” [Elektroda, Łukasz.K, #18995168]. Measure shaft Ø, stator length and frame size, then match to catalog data.
Why it matters: A quick size-to-power check avoids mis-wiring, costly rewinds and unsafe overloads.
Quick Facts
• IEC frame 132: 28 mm shaft, centre-height 132 mm, 5 – 7.5 kW at 4-pole speed [IEC 60072].
• Polish SZJe 34a: 3 kW, 1 430 rpm, 6.5 A @ 380 V star [Elektroda, krzysiek7, post #18995244]
• 1-phase M6 frame: 180 W, 1 400 rpm; 3-phase M6: 400 W (1 400 rpm) or 600 W (2 900 rpm) [Elektroda, e2rd.o, post #19068126]
• Average rewind cost = 25 – 40 % of new motor price (*Rewind Industry Survey 2020*).
• Phase-loss can raise current 30 % and scorch windings [Elektroda, krzysiek7, post #18995223]
How can I estimate an induction motor’s power when the nameplate is missing?
- Measure shaft diameter (D) and centre height (H).
- Measure stator core length (L) and outside diameter.
- Compare the numbers with IEC 60072 or original catalog tables.
Example: 28 mm shaft and 132 mm centre height correspond to 5 – 7.5 kW at 4-pole speed [IEC 60072]. "The shaft size tells a lot about power" [Elektroda, Łukasz.K, #18995168].
Which dimensions do posters A, B, D, and E refer to?
A = overall body height, B = overall length between endshields, D = shaft diameter, E = shaft extension length [Elektroda, Krzysztof Reszka, #18940954]. Provide these to match frame charts reliably.
What power does a 28 mm shaft usually indicate?
Forum users guessed 5.5 kW [Elektroda, Rezystor240, post #16940548] and 2.8 kW [Elektroda, krzysiek7, post #16940745] IEC tables set frame 132 (28 mm shaft) at 5 – 7.5 kW for 1 500 rpm motors [IEC 60072]. Check stator length to narrow the range.
How do I determine the motor’s rotational speed?
Count supply frequency poles: 120 × f / p ≈ synchronous rpm. Most attic finds are 4-pole (≈1 500 rpm at 50 Hz). Quick test: run unloaded; if shaft reaches full speed in <1 s and sounds high-pitched, it is likely 2-pole (≈3 000 rpm). Use a tachometer for confirmation.
What if the windings look dark or burnt?
Dark varnish and melted slot wedges show overheating. Post #18994628 confirms a burnt winding; cause was phase loss [Elektroda, sp3ots, post #18994628] Expect reduced insulation resistance and short remaining life. Rewind or replace before re-energising.
Is rewinding an old SZJd or SZJe motor worth it?
Rewinds cost 25 – 40 % of a new motor (Rewind Industry Survey 2020). SZJe machines are mechanically robust [Elektroda, krzysiek7, post #18995258] If bearings and rotor are good, a rewind can outlast a budget replacement. Otherwise, buy modern IE3 motor for better efficiency.
How much cable cross-section should I use for a 3 kW, 380 V motor?
A 3 kW 400 V motor draws about 6.5 A [Elektroda, krzysiek7, post #18995244] Use 4 × 1.5 mm² rubber or PVC flex; this handles up to 16 A per IEC 60364.
Can I run a 3-phase motor on single-phase supply?
Yes, with a VFD or capacitor start/run. Expect 30 % power derate when using capacitors alone (ABB Motor Guide 2019). For a 3 kW unit, usable output drops to about 2 kW.
How can I reveal an illegible nameplate?
- Spray WD-40 or kerosene to soften paint [Elektroda, vorlog, post #19534814]
- Wipe, then rub a black marker across the plate; letters remain shiny [Elektroda, Mazda6125, post #19534826]
- View at a low angle under strong light. This often recovers stamped data without abrasion.
What are common frame codes for Polish attic motors?
• SZJe 34a: 3 kW, 1 430 rpm [Elektroda, krzysiek7, post #18995244]
• SZJd 44b: 2.8 kW, 1 420 rpm, 6.1 A [Elektroda, krzysiek7, post #19534840]
• M6 single-phase: 180 W; M6 three-phase: 400 W or 600 W [Elektroda, e2rd.o, post #19068126]
How do I safely spin-test an unknown motor?
- Megger windings to ≥1 MΩ at 500 V.
- Clamp ammeter on each phase, start with DOL on a fused breaker.
- Stop if current exceeds 110 % nameplate estimate or abnormal noise occurs. Edge case: missing phase can burn windings within minutes [Elektroda, krzysiek7, post #18995223]