© 2006 GE ECM by Regal-Beloit
- 78 -
Indoor Blower Motors
v0.2
Even though changing tap connections does change the speed of the motor, it is
important, in theory at least, to understand that these are programmed levels of
torque. Referring to the taps as “speeds” or “speed taps” is only a problem if the you
do not understand three important points:
1. Manufacturers could program the taps in any order they choose. For example
they could put the higher cooling airflow selection on Tap 1 and the lower
heating airflow selection on Tap 2. Most manufacturers are programming the
motor starting at Tap 1 and building in torque values respectively.
2. Each tap can have a unique amount of torque programmed for a specific
purpose. For example switching from Tap 1 to Tap 2 may very well increase
the airflow but not necessarily at a specific interval like changing from low
speed to medium low speed on a PSC motor would. Even more important,
each motor has a unique program. Changing taps on one motor will most
likely have different results than any other.
3. It is not necessary to program all of the taps. If the manufacturer only needs
two functions, they may only program two taps, and so on up to five. All X13
motors will physically have 5 taps.
As long as the manufacturer’s charts are always referenced for selecting the
tap required per demand, this will not be an issue. Never simply increase or
decrease tap settings to adjust airflow without checking these charts.
Important Note: The X13 motor is programmed, by the manufacturer, with the
levels of torque required for each specific unit it is used in. Replacement
motors must be a direct replacement from the manufacturer for the exact
model and size unit. The X13 motor cannot be used as a universal replacement
motor for PSC motors or other X13 motors.
On the next page are examples of how different programs could be utilized for
different applications by the manufacturers.
Each of our examples shows an un-programmed tap. However, that does not mean
that a manufacturer could not and will not program all taps if needed for a particular
application.
Our examples also do not show a tap specifically programmed for a continuous fan
selection. This is also up to the manufacturer to decide. Depending on the
application, the heating or cooling selection may be used for continuous fan as was
done with many induction motor controls. This information is manufacturer specific,
listed in the installation instructions for each unit.
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