AboutJeremy Adams Expertise I can answer basically any question pertaining to the field of electricity, its applications and daily uses, theory, calculations, how to for residential, commercial, and light industrial. I am an inside wireman, therefore I can't help much with questions to do with linework, such as powerlines and distribution switchyards. I can however, answer some questions that have to do with power generation.
Experience I have 15 years in the trade and currently I am employed at TVA Cumberland City Fossil Plant where we generate about 10% of the power used in the Southeast. Of those 15 years, I have wired houses, wired many office complexes, banks, hospitals, schools, industrial applications, and can also install fire alarm systems.
Organizations IBEW Local 429 Member
Education/Credentials 4 yrs Calhoun Occupational Trade Center
Expert: Jeremy Adams Date: 6/26/2008 Subject: Electric Motors
Question Hi, can you explain to me why an electrical motor that is failing pulls more amps?
Answer Hi Jerry,
I can tell you a motors amp rating is based on its efficiency. If you have an inefficiency, that creates drag, such as a bearing going bad. This drag causes the motor to work harder with an end result of pulling more power. Now if your failure is windings, brushes or some other electrical component going out then your looking at more of a short circuit. A short circuit does not necessarily mean the breaker is going to trip unless it is an overload in amp draw or a dead short. A short circuit means your losing electrons which are the workhorses in an atomic breakdown of electricity. Your short circuited motor is having to pull more electrons in order for your motor to do its job. Hope this helps with your understanding.
