What is a primary advantage of a three-phase motor?

Study for the HVAC Level 2 Alternating Current Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question is equipped with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is a primary advantage of a three-phase motor?

Explanation:
A significant advantage of a three-phase motor is that it offers smoother operation and improved torque compared to single-phase motors. In a three-phase system, the power delivery is more consistent because the three phases are 120 degrees apart in their cycle. This phase separation allows for continuous torque production, which leads to smoother acceleration and operation, minimizing the vibrations and pulsations typically experienced in single-phase motors. Additionally, three-phase motors are generally more efficient and can better handle varying loads, making them ideal for industrial and commercial applications. While other options may have some merits, they do not capture the primary benefits associated with three-phase motors. For instance, the initial cost is often higher than single-phase motors, and while wiring may be more complex due to needing three conductors, the efficiency and performance gains usually outweigh these drawbacks. Operating at higher voltage levels can be advantageous but is typically a consequence of the system design and application requirements, rather than a direct advantage of three-phase motors themselves. Hence, the enhanced operation and torque quality distinguish three-phase motors as a preferred choice in many applications.

A significant advantage of a three-phase motor is that it offers smoother operation and improved torque compared to single-phase motors. In a three-phase system, the power delivery is more consistent because the three phases are 120 degrees apart in their cycle. This phase separation allows for continuous torque production, which leads to smoother acceleration and operation, minimizing the vibrations and pulsations typically experienced in single-phase motors. Additionally, three-phase motors are generally more efficient and can better handle varying loads, making them ideal for industrial and commercial applications.

While other options may have some merits, they do not capture the primary benefits associated with three-phase motors. For instance, the initial cost is often higher than single-phase motors, and while wiring may be more complex due to needing three conductors, the efficiency and performance gains usually outweigh these drawbacks. Operating at higher voltage levels can be advantageous but is typically a consequence of the system design and application requirements, rather than a direct advantage of three-phase motors themselves. Hence, the enhanced operation and torque quality distinguish three-phase motors as a preferred choice in many applications.

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