Squirrelcage

A squirrelcage is a type of electrical machine rotor that consists of a cylindrical shell with conductive bars mounted around its inner surface. These bars are typically made of copper or aluminum and are connected at both ends by conductive rings, forming a cage-like structure. The squirrelcage rotor is commonly used in induction motors and generators due to its simplicity, robustness, and cost-effectiveness.

The design of a squirrelcage rotor is straightforward, making it easy to manufacture and maintain. The conductive bars and rings create a closed loop that allows for the flow of electrical current when the rotor is spun by the magnetic field of the stator. This current, known as the rotor current, induces a magnetic field that interacts with the stator's magnetic field, resulting in the mechanical rotation of the rotor.

The squirrelcage rotor's simplicity and reliability have made it a popular choice in various industrial applications, including pumps, fans, compressors, and conveyor systems. Its ability to handle high speeds and torques, along with its low maintenance requirements, contributes to its widespread use in both small and large-scale industrial settings.