HOLT Electricians Practice Exam

When diagnosed, what is the usual indication of an overload condition in a motor?

1. The motor operates at lower speeds

2. The motor shows signs of overheating

3. The motor fails to start

4. The motor generates unusual sounds

The correct answer is: The motor shows signs of overheating

The usual indication of an overload condition in a motor is due to the motor showing signs of overheating. When a motor is overloaded, it draws more current than it is designed to handle, which increases its temperature. This excess heat can be attributed to the increased resistance in the motor windings and other components, resulting in diminished efficiency and potential damage. Overheating is a critical sign that the motor is under excessive load and may lead to thermal damage if not addressed. While the other scenarios—such as lower speeds, failure to start, or generating unusual sounds—can also point to various issues in a motor, they are not as definitive in indicating an overload condition. For instance, if a motor operates at lower speeds, it could simply be underpowered or jammed rather than overloaded. Similarly, failure to start might be due to electrical problems like a blown fuse or faulty circuitry, and unusual sounds might signal mechanical wear or misalignment rather than a true overload condition.