#  >> K-12 >> AP Classes

How to Measure the Inductance of a Running Motor

Motors are powered by a flow of electric currents. Measuring the inductance of a running motor will tell you how much - or how little - energy is being carried through the motor. To prevent a device from failing, measure the inductance of the device’s motor. Once you know the amount of inductance in the motor, compare it to the manufacturer’s standards. By testing the motor, you’ll be able to tell if the device’s parts need to be replaced -- you’ll never have to go without the appliance or vehicle again.

Things You'll Need

  • Multimeter
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Turn on both the motor and the digital multimeter.

    • 2

      Set the dial on the multimeter to “AC Voltage.” This setting may be designated by the letter “V” topped with curved lines.

    • 3

      Connect the positive, red alligator clip on the multimeter to the motor’s positive port and connect the negative, black alligator clip on the multimeter to the motor’s negative port.

    • 4

      Read the multimeter’s screen to determine the voltage at which the motor is operating. This voltage should come within a few volts of the manufacturer’s standard, which should be written on the motor itself.

    • 5

      Change the setting on the multimeter so that it will now read the resistance of the motor in ohms. This setting is designated by the Greek capital letter, Omega.

    • 6

      Attach the red lead on the multimeter to the motor winding’s positive end and attach the black lead on the multimeter to the motor winding’s negative end.

    • 7

      Read the number on the multimeter screen. This will be the amount of resistance of the motor winding in ohms. The number of ohms should be within 2.0 of the manufacturer’s standard, which should be written on the motor itself.

Learnify Hub © www.0685.com All Rights Reserved