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Md Jony Islam Author
Md Jony Islam
CalculatorToolsProjectExpert
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Małgorzata Koperska, MD Steven Wooding
Last updated: October 21, 2025

Star Delta Control and Power Wiring Diagram for 3-Phase Motor

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3 Phase TP MCB 32A

3 Phase TP MCB 32A

Triple Pole Miniature Circuit Breaker

Single Phase Contactor

Single Phase Contactor

Electromagnetic switch designed for controlling single-phase electrical loads

3 Phase Motor Overload Relay

3 Phase Motor Overload Relay

Protective relay that trips when motor current exceeds safe limits

3 Phase Motor 2Hp

3 Phase Motor 2Hp

Three-phase electric motor with 2 horsepower

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star-delta Transformer Connection Circuit

Learn the Star Delta control and power wiring diagram for 3-phase motors, including starters, timers, contactors, and overload protection for safe motor operation.

star delta wiring diagram for 3 phase motor

The Star Delta wiring diagram demonstrates how to safely start a 3-phase motor with less starting current with Star and Delta contactors, a timer, and overload protection.

3 phase motor star delta control wiring:

Star Star-Delta starter is applied to the start of an induction motor that has a lower starting current (3-phase). The Star Delta control and power wiring diagram illustrates the method of connecting three contactors (Star, Delta, and Main), an overload relay, a timer, and control switches to start and stop the motor safely. The motor is first wired in star so that it may have less voltage and less starting current. The timer then causes the motor to go into delta configuration to operate at full voltage after a predetermined period. The correct wiring of all the controls consists of contactor coils, control circuit, start/stop push buttons, and protection devices to avoid damage to the motor. This is done to follow the diagram to maintain smooth operation, prevent surplus current, and guard the motor against faults. This arrangement is common in industrial applications such as pumps, conveyors, and compressors.

Work & Installation (Input → Output,)

  • Power Supply: Connect 3-phase line to the main contactor.
  • Control Circuit: Install start and stop push buttons connected to the main contactor coil.
  • Star Contactor: Energizes during initial start to connect motor in star configuration.
  • Timer: Switches from star to delta after preset delay.
  • Delta Contactor: Energizes to connect motor in delta configuration for full-speed operation.
  • Overload Relay: Installed in series with motor to protect against overcurrent.
  • Wiring Checks: Ensure all coil, contactor, and overload connections are correct.
  • Earthing: Proper earthing of motor and control panel.
  • Testing: Verify start, star-delta transition, stop, and overload protection.

Testing & Final Adjustments

Supply voltage may be applied, and the start button pressed after wiring. Ensure that the star contactor is energized at the beginning of the motor, enabling it to start with a lower voltage. Ensure that the timer switches to the delta contactor when the preset delay is reached, allowing full-speed operation. Check the stop button so that the motor can be stopped. Heat the relay to test the relays and the protection of the motor. Check all terminals to ensure that they are tight, insulated, and in proper sequence. Label everything that is in contact with each other to make it easy to maintain. The repeated test cycles will give a good start, clean star-delta breakover, and correct overload protection. Correct testing will avoid any damage to the motors, decrease the stress in starting current, and ensure the safety of the process in industries.

Frequently Asked Questions - star-delta Transformer Connection Circuit:

What is a Star Delta starter?

A method to start 3-phase motors at reduced current using star then delta connection.

Why use Star Delta starter?

To reduce starting current and avoid voltage dips.

How many contactors are used?

Three contactors: Main, Star, and Delta.

What is the timer for?

To switch from star to delta after a preset delay.

Is overload protection needed?

Yes, an overload relay protects the motor from overcurrent.

Can it be used for all motors?

Generally for 3-phase induction motors only.

How is control wiring done?

Start/stop buttons control main contactor and star/delta sequence via timer.

What happens if delta energizes first?

Motor will start at full voltage causing high current and possible damage.

Can this be automated with PLC?

Yes, PLCs can control the star-delta sequence automatically.

Where is Star Delta starter used?

In pumps, conveyors, compressors, and industrial machinery.

Md Jony Islam

Md Jony Islam

CalculatorToolsProject

Founder of Earthbondhon.com

a free online tools website designed to make everyday and engineering-related calculations easier for students, professionals, and hobbyists. The site offers a wide range of basic calculators across key categories, including Electrical Calculators, Electronic Calculators, and Time & Date Calculators.