What is the purpose of voltage reduction startup?
In modern industrial production and power systems, reduced voltage starting is a common motor starting method. Its main purpose is to reduce the impact of starting current on the power grid and equipment by reducing the voltage at startup, thereby protecting the stability of the motor and power grid. This article will introduce in detail the purpose, principle, applicable scenarios and related data comparison of voltage reduction startup.
1. The main purpose of voltage reduction startup

The core purpose of step-down starting is to solve the problem of high current generated when the motor is started directly. The following are the specific purposes of step-down startup:
| purpose | Description |
|---|---|
| Reduce starting current | During direct start, the motor current can reach 5-7 times the rated current, and reduced voltage start can reduce it to 2-3 times. |
| Protect the power grid | Avoid large currents causing fluctuations in the grid voltage and affecting the normal operation of other equipment. |
| Extend equipment life | Reduces mechanical and electrical stress during start-up and reduces wear on motors and mechanical components. |
| Energy saving | Reduce unnecessary energy loss and improve system efficiency. |
2. Principle of voltage reduction startup
Buck starting achieves current control by reducing the terminal voltage when the motor starts. Common voltage reduction starting methods include:
| method | Principle | Applicable scenarios |
|---|---|---|
| Star-Delta Start | The motor windings are connected in star when starting and switched to delta during operation to reduce the starting voltage. | Small and medium-sized asynchronous motors |
| Autotransformer start | The starting voltage is reduced through the autotransformer and switches to full voltage operation after starting. | Large and medium motors |
| soft starter | Electronic control is used to gradually increase the voltage to achieve smooth start. | Precision equipment or occasions with high startup requirements |
3. Applicable scenarios for voltage reduction startup
Reduced voltage starting is not suitable for all motors. Its suitability depends on the motor's power, load characteristics and grid conditions. The following are common applicable scenarios:
1.High power motor: Motors with power exceeding 10kW usually need to be started with reduced voltage to reduce the impact on the power grid.
2.Grid capacity is limited: In situations where the grid capacity is small, voltage reduction startup can avoid voltage dips.
3.High inertia load: Loads such as fans and water pumps require large torque when starting. Voltage-reducing starting can balance current and torque requirements.
4.Start the device frequently: Frequently started motors can extend the life of the equipment by reducing the voltage.
4. Comparison between reduced voltage start and direct start
The following is a comparison of key data between reduced voltage start and direct start:
| parameters | direct start | step down start |
|---|---|---|
| Starting current | 5-7 times rated current | 2-3 times rated current |
| Starting torque | High (100% rated torque) | Low (about 25-50% rated torque) |
| Grid impact | Large voltage fluctuations | Small voltage fluctuation |
| Equipment cost | low | Higher (additional equipment required) |
5. Summary
The purpose of reduced-voltage starting is to protect the motor and power grid by reducing the starting current, while extending the life of the equipment. Although reduced voltage starting will sacrifice part of the starting torque, its advantages in reducing grid impact and energy saving make it the preferred solution for starting high-power motors. Choosing an appropriate voltage-reduced starting method requires comprehensive consideration based on the motor's power, load characteristics, and actual application scenarios.
With the development of technology, new step-down starting equipment such as soft starters and frequency converters are increasingly used. They not only achieve smooth starting, but also provide more precise control, further optimizing the starting performance of the motor.
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