Start and Run Capacitors for Electric Motors

We see and hear of the challenges producers face in swapping out electric motors (figure 1) when they "go bad" and stop working. The cost of replacing a farm motor can range between $200 and $500-plus depending on the type of motor, size, and brand name. The motor can take 1 to 2 hours to replace depending on how easy it is to remove attached equipment, such as pulleys and shafts, and rewire and attach the new motor.

Click here to read the publication, ANR-2784 - Start and Run Capacitors for Electric Motors.

NPTC Tools of the Trade: Testing a Motor Capacitor

Learn the necessary steps to properly test a motor capacitor on the farm.

Before testing can begin, you need to gather the necessary tools to perform a capacitor test:

• Electrical multimeter with modes to test continuity and capacitance. Continuity will be identified as a sound logo, and capacitance will be identified with a capacitor logo (-||-) on the multimeter dial.
• Capacitance meter to check the capacitance of a start or run capacitor.
• Multi-tool driver or set of sockets to open the capacitor housing on the motor.
• Insulated pliers to remove the spade connectors from the capacitor tabs and to hold the discharge resistor.
• Electrical resistor (15 to 20k Ohm) to dissipate the electrical charge of the capacitors. An electrically insulated screwdriver is used by electricians to discharge the capacitor, but it is not a recommended method.
• Soldering iron (electric or gas pen) to remove and reattach a bleed-off resistor if attached to the start capacitor.

Click here to read the publication, ANR-2783 - NPTC Tools of the Trade: Testing a Motor Capacitor.

Do Your Valves and Hose Bibs Restrict Water Capacity?

In the summer months, water capacity always becomes a concern for commercial broiler growers as bird consumption and evaporative cooling systems tax farm water supplies. As we repair or add on to our existing water supply systems, we often don't think about the types of fixtures and valves we use. We often choose replacement valves from what is available on the farm or what is cheapest from the supply store. Figure 1 shows the water panel of a 40-by-500-foot commercial broiler house with yellow arrows highlighting 15 valves or hose bibs. This manifold has 10 PVC and 3 brass ball valves and 2 brass quarter-turn hose bibs, which begs the question: is it safe to assume that the flow rate out of these valves is the same?

Click here to read the publication, ANR-2721 - Do Your Valves and Hose Bibs Restrict Water Capacity?

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