The latest from Techtop on single phase motors
With the skills gap proving difficult to navigate for many motor shops these days, learning the nuts & bolts (or the amps and volts) of the game is still highly useful.
Example: Atlanta-area manufacturer and EA mainstay Techtop recently offered some valuable education on some of the basics of single-phase motors. Specifically, solid-state switch vs. mechanical switch.
Techtop contends that solid-state switches can offer several advantages over mechanical switches, making them "a preferred choice in many applications."
One of the primary benefits is its durability; solid-state switches have no moving parts, which significantly reduces wear and tear over time. This means they can generally operate reliably for much longer periods without the risk of failure due to mechanical fatigue.
Additionally, solid-state switches often provide faster switching speeds, which can be crucial in applications requiring quick response times. They also generally consume less power and generate less heat compared to mechanical switches, enhancing overall energy efficiency.
Furthermore, solid-state switches are known to handle higher voltages and currents, making them suitable for various applications, from consumer electronics to industrial machinery.
The reliability, speed, energy efficiency, and versatility of solid-state switches--such as those within Techtop's "Cobra" line of single-phase motors--can often make them superior to traditional mechanical switches in many scenarios.