The air gap between the rotor and the stator of a 3-phase induction m...
The air gap between the rotor and the stator of a 3-phase induction motor is kept as short as possible to keep the leakage reactance small and produce the mutual flux with a minimum exciting current. Also, the magnetizing current is very large (30%-50% of the full-load stator winding current) so, to reduce the magnetizing current, air-gap has to be kept small.
Hence, the correct option is (D)
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The air gap between the rotor and the stator of a 3-phase induction m...
Explanation:
The air gap between the rotor and the stator of a 3-phase induction motor is an important factor that affects the motor's performance. Keeping the air gap as short as possible has several advantages, which are discussed below:
1. To keep the leakage reactance small:
Leakage reactance is the inductive reactance that arises due to the leakage of magnetic flux from the stator to the rotor. This leakage reactance can cause a voltage drop and reduce the efficiency of the motor. By keeping the air gap small, the leakage reactance can be minimized, leading to better motor performance.
2. To keep the mutual flux with a minimum exciting current:
Mutual flux is the magnetic flux that passes through both the stator and the rotor. This flux is responsible for the induction of an emf in the rotor, which causes the rotor to rotate. The amount of mutual flux depends on the amount of exciting current that is passed through the stator windings. By keeping the air gap small, the amount of mutual flux can be maximized with a minimum exciting current, leading to better motor efficiency.
3. To keep the magnetizing current small:
Magnetizing current is the current that is required to create the magnetic field in the stator. This current is necessary for the induction of the mutual flux and the rotation of the rotor. By keeping the air gap small, the amount of magnetizing current can be minimized, leading to better motor efficiency.
Therefore, keeping the air gap between the rotor and stator of a 3-phase induction motor as short as possible has many benefits, including reducing leakage reactance, maximizing mutual flux with minimum exciting current, and minimizing magnetizing current. All of these factors contribute to better motor performance and efficiency.