What is an Electric Starter? Types, Uses, and How They Work

Electric starters are significant devices because they both regulate and defend electric motors while enabling continuous operation across industrial and domestic facilities. Electric starters regulate the first current spikes while an electric motor begins startup to safeguard both the motor and surrounding electrical equipment.

The following blog describes electric starters, including their basic definition, various types, operational methods, connection procedures, symbolic representations, and cost-related issues. This guide contains high-level information about electric starters, which will benefit electrical engineers, technicians, and industry professionals.

What is Starter in the Electrical Industry?

The starter functions as an electrical device that manages the start-stop operations and protection systems in electric networks.

An electric starter operates as an electrical tool that controls the starting and stopping process and protects electric motor starters. At the time of motor startup, the starter controls excessive current flow to protect circuits and motor windings from damage.

Starters provide key functionalities, including:

• Prevents excessive current flow when the motor starts.

• The device shuts off electric power automatically when heaters or electrical devices face overheating conditions or electrical failures.

• Ensures a smooth and gradual increase in motor voltage.

Electric starters find applications in numerous industrial sectors, such as manufacturing, HVAC systems, water pumps, and conveyors, amongst others.

Types of Electrical Starters

Electric starters are of multiple types and serve unique motor control functions in specific applications. The following lists the main types of electrical starters:

1. Direct-On-Line (DOL) Starter

• The simplest and most used starter.

• Connects the motor directly to the supply voltage.

• Suitable for small motors with low starting currents.

• Features an overload relay for protection.

2. Star-Delta Starter

• Used for high-power three-phase motors.

• Reduces the starting current by initially running the motor in a star connection, then switching to a delta connection.

• Minimizes voltage dips and mechanical stress.

3. Auto-Transformer Starter

• Uses an autotransformer to step down the voltage during startup.

• Reduces the initial current surge and provides smooth acceleration.

• Suitable for large motors in industrial applications.

4. Soft Starter

• Controls motor startup by gradually increasing voltage.

• Reduces mechanical and electrical stress.

• Used in pumps, compressors, and conveyors.

5. Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) Starter

• Adjusts motor speed by varying frequency and voltage.

• Provides efficient energy savings and precise speed control.

• Used in automation, HVAC, and robotics.

Each starter type is selected based on motor power, load conditions, and operational requirements.

Also Read: What is a Motor Starter and How Does a Motor Starter Work?

How Does an Electric Starter Work?

The complete operation of electric motor starters includes monitoring motor current and shielding the motor from possible faults. The operation of electrical starters works using a series of steps that differ between different starter types but follow the basic process.

1. Activation

• The control system communicates a start instruction to the starter through its start control element.

• A control system makes the contactor operational and enables electricity to reach the motor.

2. Initial Current Control

• When using DOL starters, complete electrical voltage enters the motor system right away.

• In star-delta starters, the motor starts in a star connection, reducing current.

• Soft starters and VFDs gradually increase the voltage to limit inrush current.

3. Motor Acceleration

• The motor raises its speed rate when operating within specified voltage boundaries.

• Protection devices assess current measurements, temperature status, and voltage strength.

4. Running Mode

• The starter preserves a constant power supply, which protects the motor from overload conditions after it reaches its maximum speed.

• The speed control system of VFDs operates according to established operational specifications.

5. Stopping the Motor

• The electric starter uses its integrated design to shut off power at the contactor, which cuts off the electrical supply to the motor.

• Starters contain features that help reduce stopping speed without abrupt brakes.

• Operation of the motor proceeds efficiently without causing significant harm to the system through this protective procedure.

Electric Starter Connection

Safe and efficient motor operation requires the correct electric starter connection. Various types of common starters follow this typical electrical connection procedure.

• The main power wires should connect to the input junctions of the starter device.

• Push buttons or control switches are applied to the starter through its connection wiring.

• The output terminals of the starter should be connected to the motor windings.

• Set the overload relay parameters for the motor based on its technical specifications.

• Testing along with commissioning establishes that the voltage reaches proper levels, that both startup procedures work correctly, and that faults have been resolved before complete implementation.

• The diagrams supplied by manufacturers ensure that the equipment will match the required motors as well as industrial systems.

Electrical Starter Symbols

Knowledge of electrical starter symbols forms a basic requirement for interpreting wiring diagrams. Some commonly used symbols include:

• The Contactor Symbol displays the switch that acts as the motor's power controller.

• The Overload Relay Symbol (OL) functions as a protective element against conditions of high current.

• The start and stop action buttons are denoted through Push Button Symbols (S1 & S2).

• Transformer Symbol is found in auto-transformer starters.

• Star & Delta Connection Symbols are used in star-delta starters.

Electric Starter Use Cases

Electric starter devices serve multiple industries by performing in various industrial applications.

• HVAC Systems: Used in air conditioners, compressors, and ventilation fans.

• Water Pumping Stations: Provides reliable startup for pumps in municipal and agricultural settings.

• Automotive: Automotive firms depend on starter motor electric systems for engine ignition acceleration.

• Renewable Energy: Used in wind turbines and solar-powered motors.

Electric Starter Price Considerations

The electric starter price varies based on several factors, including type, power rating, and brand. Below is a general price range:

• DOL Starters: ₹2,000 – ₹10,000

• Star-Delta Starters: ₹5,000 – ₹30,000

• Auto-Transformer Starters: ₹10,000 – ₹50,000

• Soft Starters: ₹15,000 – ₹100,000

• VFD Starters: ₹20,000 – ₹500,000

Prices also depend on additional features such as smart control, remote monitoring, and energy efficiency ratings.

Electrical Starter Box: Protection and Installation

The electrical starter box shields electric starter components from environmental challenges, including dust buildup, moisture, and electrical surges. The following factors define the main criteria for choosing an electrical starter box:

• Environmental factors determine whether the enclosure will be made from metal or plastic materials.

• IP Rating ensures protection against water and dust ingress.

• Ventilation prevents overheating of starter components.

Conclusion

Electric starters serve as essential elements for safe and efficient electric motor operation throughout different industrial settings. One can identify appropriate electric starters by understanding their definitions, technical specifications, operational principles, and connection techniques. Visit the SmartShop of Lauritz Knudsen Electrical & Automation to buy high-quality electric starters.