How to Size Line Reactors

Line reactors limit the current to electrical devices with motors and oppose rapid changes in current. A line reactor is necessary for heavy-duty electrical motors like those used in factories. Choosing just any line reactor will not work and in fact can lead to the electrical motors becoming damaged and even burning. For this reason you must properly size the line reactor. You can quickly tell which line reactor to choose.

Instructions

- 1
  Read the voltage required for the electrical motor. Most electrical motors will have a metal plate that indicates the voltage.
- 2
  Read the horsepower the electrical motor produces. This is found on the same metal plate were you found the voltage.
- 3
  Identify the percent of impedance required from the line reactor. If there are industrial machine plans you will be able to read off the impedance required from the line reactor. If you do not see it on the plans then you can still choose one. Go with 3 percent impedance if you want to prevent your circuit breakers from nuisance tripping; expect to pay a premium for a 3-percent impedance line reactor. Go with 5 percent impedance if you want to save money and minimize noise.
- 4
  Choose a line reactor that is rated for the voltage, horsepower and impedance you have identified. Do not install a line reactor that is not at least rated for the required voltage or horsepower.

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