Electric Motors on the Farm

Research Branch Agriculture Canada, 1983. — 32 p.Today's farm is a highly mechanized, intensive production unit. Increased mechanization has promoted the use of electric motors on the farm for building ventilation; crop drying and preservation; handling of farm products, manure, and food; and operation of a broad range of tools. An electric motor has several advantages: it can start up very large loads and withstand a temporary overload; it is far more efficient than a gasoline or diesel engine; and it is nonpolluting, quiet, and compact. Easy to operate, an electric motor can be readily equipped with automatic controls. Its useful life can be very long, with a minimum of maintenance. The purpose of this technical bulletin is to inform the farmer about the types of motors available, their installation and maintenance, and the problems that may arise concerning their use.