Skew Explained: A Key Concept for HVAC Professionals

In the realm of HVAC systems, understanding the intricacies of motor design can significantly enhance your equipment's performance and longevity. One critical aspect of motor design is the concept of skewing.

What is Skew?

Skew refers to the arrangement of laminations on a rotor or armature at a slight angle. This strategic design helps mitigate several unwanted effects commonly associated with electric motors, particularly in HVAC applications.

Benefits of Skewing

• Reduction of Cogging: Skewing helps to eliminate low-speed cogging effects in an armature. Cogging can lead to an uneven rotational force, which can affect the smooth operation of HVAC motors, especially during startup and at low speeds.
• Minimized Induced Vibration: By adjusting the laminations, skewing helps minimize induced vibration within the rotor. This is particularly important for HVAC systems, where vibrations can lead to mechanical wear and noise complaints.
• Noise Reduction: Skewing is effective in reducing the noise associated with motor operation. For HVAC professionals, this means quieter systems that are more appealing to customers.
• Increased Starting Torque: Skewing can also assist in increasing the starting torque of the motor. This characteristic is crucial in HVAC applications where the motor needs to overcome inertia to start fans and compressors effectively.

Conclusion

For HVAC professionals, understanding the concept of skew and its advantages in motor design can lead to more efficient installations and happier clients. By ensuring that your motors are appropriately designed with skewed laminations, you can improve reliability, enhance performance, and reduce operational noise in HVAC systems.