Behavior of Induction Motor Protection Due to Voltage Sags and Short Interruptions

An experimental study and some calculations on induction motor behavior were carried out. The effects due to short interruptions and voltage sags were investigated. A standard three-phase squirrel-cage motor of 5.5 kW, 1500 rpm, 380 V was used. The presence of induction motor changes the voltage sag waveform and duration. Protection characteristic curves and contactor ride-through capability together with their improvement are also studied. The interaction between motor load, system hot-load pickup, and voltage sag magnitude determine the motor reacceleration duration and magnitudes. Besides, on-sag and post-sag currents can reach levels higher than the direct start values. Post-sag overcurrent duration can last more than twice the normal start time period, having specific energies in the same order of magnitude.