Phase rotation testers are used to determine the rotation direction of polyphase electrical systems to ensure equipment is connected properly to the mains power supply. Polyphase electrical systems, usually 3-phase, are common in industrial settings to efficiently and economically satisfy the massive electrical needs of the large motors found in such settings.
When a 3-phase motor is connected to a 3-phase electric circuit, inadvertently reversing two of the motor’s stator leads will reverse the rotating magnetic field within the motor and cause the motor to also run in reverse. Though some motors may run with incorrect phasing, others, like hydraulic pumps, cooler units or coolant pumps may sustain significant damage if run in reverse.
Phase rotation testers can help save you from the cost and embarrassment or wiring a motor backwards. The testers are available in many styles with an assortment of features, but the basic idea is that they indicate the phase sequence or phase rotation of a three-phase system and whether each of the three phases is live or not. Such information will confirm whether or not equipment is wired correctly.
If you have any questions regarding phase rotation testers please don't hesitate to speak with one of our engineers by e-mailing us at sales@instrumart.com or calling 1-800-884-4967.
