A centrifugal switch is used in which type of motor?

A centrifugal switch is commonly utilized in capacitor-start motors. This type of motor needs an additional starting mechanism to provide the necessary torque to initiate rotation. The centrifugal switch operates by using centrifugal force, which is generated when the motor reaches a certain speed. As the motor accelerates, the switch opens or closes a circuit to disconnect the start capacitor or the start winding from the circuit, allowing the motor to run efficiently on the main winding alone.

In the context of other motor types, the capacitor-start motor is specifically designed for applications that require high starting torque. Induction motors, on the other hand, typically use rotor slip to generate torque and don't need a starting mechanism like a centrifugal switch. Universal motors can operate on AC or DC power and employ different starting configurations. Repulsion-start motors also have distinct mechanisms related to the rotor and can leverage a different approach for starting. Thus, the operational principle of the centrifugal switch is uniquely suited to the requirements of capacitor-start motors.