Induktionsmaskiner

Induktionsmaskiner, often referred to as induction machines or asynchronous machines, are a type of AC electric motor or generator. Their operation relies on the principle of electromagnetic induction. In a motor, a rotating magnetic field is produced by the stator windings, which induces a current in the rotor. This induced current creates its own magnetic field, which then interacts with the stator's field, causing the rotor to turn. The speed of an induction motor is slightly less than the synchronous speed of the rotating magnetic field, hence the term "asynchronous."

The most common type is the squirrel-cage induction motor, characterized by a rotor constructed with conductive bars short-circuited at both ends by rings, resembling a squirrel cage. Wound-rotor induction motors, less common, have windings on the rotor connected to slip rings, allowing for external resistance to be added for speed and torque control. Induction machines are widely used in industry and household appliances due to their robustness, reliability, and relatively low cost.

As generators, induction machines can convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. They typically require an external source of reactive power to establish their magnetic field. When driven above their synchronous speed, they can feed power back into the grid. Their application as generators is often found in wind turbines and some hydroelectric power plants.