IEEE Std 620-1987

(Originally issued for trial use in 1981)

IEEE Guide for Construction and Interpretation of Thermal Limit Curves for Squirrel-Cage Motors Over 500 hp

Published by The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc 345 East 47th Street, New York, NY 10017, USA
March 9,1987 SH11007

IEEE Std 62G1987

IEEE GUIDE FOR CONSTRUCTION AND INTERPRETATION OF

IEEE Guide for Construction and Interpretation of Thermal Limit Curves for Squirrel-Cage Motors Over 500 hp

1. Purpose
The purpose of this guide is t o assist in a uniform understanding of the construction, interpretation, and use of motor thermal limit curves.

4. Construction

4 . 1 The thermal limit curve is a plot of time in seconds versus percent of rated current. See Fig 1. 4.2 The percent of rated full load current is t o
be plotted as the abscissa on a linear scale.

2. Scope
2 . 1 This guide defines thermal limit curves, recommends a standard procedure for construction of the curves, and provides the definitions and information necessary t o properly use these curves. 2 . 2 The guide also describes thermal limit curves for large squirrel-cage motors defined as those motor ratings built in frames larger than the frame normally used for 500 hp, 1800 r/min motors.

4 . 3 Time is to be plotted as the ordinate on a multicycle, usually three, logarithmic scale. 4.4 The curves should represent two emergency
conditions. 4 . 4 . 1 At approximately 300% or 400% CUTrent and higher, a locked rotor condition should be represented. The curve or curves also should be labeled concerning initial conditions such as: (1)motor initially at ambient temperature or, (2) motor initially at operating temperature. 4.4.2 From approximately operating current up to the current approximately corresponding t o breakdown torque, a motor overload condition should be represented. The curve should be drawn assuming the motor was initially at its highest normal operating temperature.

3. Definition
thermal limit curves for large squirrel-cage motors. Plots of maximum permissible time versus percent of rated current flowing in the motor winding under specified emergency conditions. These curves can be used in conjunction with the motor time-current curve for a normal start t o set protective relays and breakers for motor thermal protection during starting and running conditions.

4 . 5 The thermal limit curve may be continuous when a single curve adequately represents the data. The curve may be discontinuous when two or more curve segments are needed to adequately represent the data. 4 . 6 Where pertinent, additional data or curves,
6

BEE THERMAL LIMIT CURVES FOR SQUIRRELXAGE MOTORS OVER 500 hp

Std 620-1987

700
600

500
400

300

200

IO 0

90 80
70

60
50
40

030

IO
9 8 7 6

5
4

* Motor initially a t operating temperature N O T E : When required the locked curve may be drawn and labeled for starting 'I I n i t ia I I y a t a m b i en t tern pe ra t u re 'I

IO0

200

300

400

500

600

PERCENT OF RATED CURRENT

Fig 1 Thermal Limit Curve

IEEE S t d 620-1987

such as thermal capability during acceleration, may be included.

4.7 The motor rated current in amperes should appear on the curve.

damage t o motor parts should occur.

5 . Use

5.2 The curves are not an indication of overload capacity and should not be used as a basis for planned overload operations. Repeated operation up t o the thermal limit will significantly reduce motor life.

5.1 The currents and times involved most probably will heat the motor parts beyond normal operating temperatures. Some reduction in motor life is expected. No permanent critical

5.3 These curves should be used along with the motor starting timecurrent curve t o permit the choice of protective equipment which will allow normal motor starting and will protect the motor against overheating.