Required Information

The motor nameplate contains specific information about the motor. Motors are required to be shipped with a nameplate. The National Electrical Code requires specific items:

• the manufacturer's name, model and serial number;
  
• rated voltage and full load amperage;
  
• rated frequency;
  
• phase;
  
• rated full load speed;
  
• rated temperature rise or insulation class and rated ambient temperature;
  
• duty rating;
  
• rated horsepower; and
  
• design code letter.

Additional information is sometimes provided on these items:

• service factor,
  
• enclosure type,
  
• frame size,
  
• connection diagrams,
  
• unique or special features.

NEMA, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, has developed many standards related to different aspects of motors and how they are rated. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a European-based organization that publishes and promotes worldwide mechanical and electrical standards for motors and other electric and mechanical devices. In simple terms, IEC is the international counterpart of NEMA which publishes the motor standards most commonly used in North America.

And Furthermore . . .