The classic and reliable workhorse—the shaded-pole motor.
2026/02/12
Working principle
The stator’s main winding, when energized, generates an alternating magnetic field. The key feature is that a short-circuited copper ring—known as a “shaded pole”—is fitted around part of the magnetic poles. This copper ring causes the magnetic flux in the shaded portion to lag behind the flux in the unshaded portion, thereby creating a “sweeping magnetic field” on the surface of the magnetic poles, which moves from the unshaded to the shaded region. This moving magnetic field “pushes” the rotor (a squirrel-cage rotor) to start and maintain continuous rotation.
Core features
Simple structure and extremely low cost: few components, mature production processes, and significant price advantages.
Durable and highly reliable: With no fragile components such as capacitors or centrifugal switches, it is virtually indestructible.
Low starting torque: This is its biggest drawback, as it cannot start under heavy loads.
Low efficiency and relatively high energy consumption: Efficiency is typically only 15%-30% It is a type of motor with relatively high energy consumption.
The rotational speed is essentially fixed: The speed is determined by the power supply frequency and the number of poles, making speed control difficult.
Major household appliance applications
Small fans: such as table fans, exhaust fans, computer case fans, and more.
Heater / Hair dryer: Used to drive the fan impeller and generate airflow.
Microwave oven: Used to rotate the turntable.
Photocopier / Projector: For cooling fan.
Some simple types of pumps, such as aquarium pumps and small humidifiers.
Summary
The shaded-pole motor is a prime example of the “just good enough” philosophy. In applications that don’t require precise control, don’t involve frequent starts and stops, and are not sensitive to energy consumption, this motor continues to occupy a substantial and irreplaceable market share thanks to its unparalleled cost-effectiveness and rugged, durable performance.
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