What is the role of the centrifugal switch in a split-phase motor?

The role of the centrifugal switch in a split-phase motor is to isolate the run winding after the motor has reached a specific speed. In split-phase motors, there are typically two windings: the start winding and the run winding. The centrifugal switch is crucial because it automatically disconnects the start winding once the motor accelerates to a predetermined speed, allowing the motor to operate solely on the run winding. This design is important because the start winding is only necessary during the initial startup phase when higher torque is needed to overcome inertia and bring the rotor up to speed. Once the rotor is up to speed, maintaining the start winding engagement would not only be unnecessary but could also lead to overheating and potential damage to the motor. Therefore, the centrifugal switch ensures safe and efficient operation by switching out the start winding and allowing the run winding to manage the load effectively.