How to change rotation for Star Delta Starter?

 Change motor rotation for Star Delta Starter

Electric motors have two sides of rotation. It is clockwise and anti-clockwise or normally we call it forward and reverse rotation. A piece of equipment or machinery that is connected to an electric motor has a rotation depend on manufacture design and application.

Common rotating equipment that we can find in our surrounding area such as pumps, air compressors, water jets and etc. Normally manufacturers put a sign or arrow for rotation to avoid their equipment not install in a proper way and can avoid serious damage or malfunction.

During installation and wiring termination, we must check and verify our rotation for equipment whether it is forward or reverse rotation to avoid any problem or malfunction after completing installation works.

In my last post, I already discussed Star Delta phase rotation for each phase ( red,yellow,blue).If you have not read it yet, please click on Star Delta motor connection and Star Delta Starter for further information.

For this post, I would like to share how to change motor rotation for Star Delta starters. It looks easy but it actually so tricky if we do not understand a basic or star delta theory.

But don`t worry, I show to all of you the best way and simple technique on how to change rotation for star delta starter. The important thing that we need to know is about common phase color for forward rotation is the Red,Yellow, Blue and for reverse rotation is the Blue,Yellow,Red.

The second thing that we must know is which area we can change the phase sequence for motor rotation. It is at the main contactor or delta contactor or from the incoming power supply for the star delta circuit? The answer is the incoming power supply for the star delta circuit.

Clockwise or Anti-Clockwise rotation?

We can change the phase of the power supply at the incoming of the main breaker for forward or reverse rotation that is connected to the main, star, and delta contactor. The important key is just to switch only the phase between RED and BLUE. The yellow phase just remains in the middle position.

Understanding the direction of rotation—clockwise or anti-clockwise—is crucial in many applications, from operating motors to tightening screws or bolts. But how do you determine which direction is needed, and why does it matter? Let’s dive into the basics.

• Clockwise (CW): Movement in the same direction as the hands of a clock.
• Anti-Clockwise (ACW): Movement opposite to the clock hands, often referred to as “counterclockwise” in American English.

Why Rotation Direction Matters

1. In Motors and Fans:
   • Motors must rotate in the correct direction to drive machinery effectively.
   • Fans designed for specific airflows may become inefficient if the direction is reversed.
2. In Screws and Bolts:
   • The standard “righty-tighty, lefty-loosey” rule applies—turn clockwise to tighten, anti-clockwise to loosen.
3. In Electrical Systems:
   • Three-phase motors may need to switch between CW and ACW depending on the wiring or application.

How to Determine Rotation

• Visual Observation: Look at the movement from a fixed perspective.
• Testing Motors: Swap any two phases of a three-phase motor to reverse the direction.
• Markings: Many machines and tools include arrows indicating the correct direction.

Pro Tips

• Always double-check the intended rotation before starting a motor or machine.
• Incorrect rotation can damage equipment or reduce efficiency.

Understanding and applying the correct rotational direction ensures safety, efficiency, and prolonged equipment life. Whether you’re dealing with machines, screws, or motors, knowing whether to go clockwise or anti-clockwise makes all the difference.

So that is the simple, easy, and perfect way how to change rotation for Star Delta Starter. I hope it can help all of you when facing problems of how to change motor rotation.