Computer Analysis of 3-Phase Induction Motor Operation on Rural Open-Delta Distribution Systems

Open-delta/open-delta and open-wye/open-delta transformer banks are often used as an economic means of supplying simultaneous single-phase and 3-phase loads in rural areas. If the 3-phase load is an induction motor, the inherent voltage unbalance causes increased losses and uneven heating that may lead to motor failure. often these motors are submersible or deep well pump motors located in remote unattended areas or air conditioning motors which may not have sufficient over-design to handle the voltage unbalance. The theory analyzing the open-delta distribution system has existed for many years, however, because of the tedious and almost infinite differences in distribution topology, the problem has been neglected. The purpose in this endeavor is to present a simple general approach to the solution of the problem by utilizing existing motor and network concepts and theories. Two previously published theories are used to predict motor heating and the motor derating that is necessary to prevent insulation failure due to the unbalanced voltages. A general motor model has been developed. Motor heating and derating are obtained from the model through a generalized digital computer program.