Electric Motors – Single Phase, Repulsion Induction and Repulsion Motors
An early 20th century, 25 cycle, 1/4 HP repulsion induction motor, equipped with rigid base for use on small commercial refrigeration applications, commonly found in Canada on Frigidaire condensing units in small food store and confectionery applications, throughout the pre W.W.II years and beyond to frequency standardization and the birth of the hermetic motor compressor, Delco, Circa 1936.
Technical Significance:
– The physical size and crushing weight of this 1/4 HP motor of the period is a matter of note. The magnetic circuits required for 25 cycle applications, along with the all ferro-magnetic bodies, coupled with the relatively crude engineering designs of the period would lead to massive equipment by future standards. For examples of applications by Frigidaire see Reference No 12
– Repulsion induction motor technology was above all a marvel of its time, a technology born of both science and the consumer market place, a classic formula for the innovation and diffusion of popular technology, throughout the balance of the 20th century and on in to the 21st. Scientifically, the work of Faraday and many others laid much of the theoretical foundations for electromagnetic devices, the marvel of the early 20th century [much in the same way digital devices became the marvel of the early years of the 21st]. The wonders made possible by alternating current energised, rotating magnetic fields and the electric and magnetic circuitry that made them possible would soon be exploited by those interested in their application in applied electro-motive technology, including Steinnmetz and others. [See References especially #I, 2, and 5]
– See also ID# 296
Industrial Significance:
– See also notes ID# 296