| Many single phase motors use a capacitor for starting. I don't remember just why. Back a while ago, tkrussel posted a link to a very exacting explanation in the E&L forum. The search feature works well here, if you can come up with the right key words, you may find it.
I am going to suggest moving this to E&L where he may see it and remember the link to post again.
3 phase power factor capacitors are an entirely different matter. 3 phase motors run fine without them. |