Implications of using larger motor starter?

[biofueler]

Is there anything inherently wrong with using a motor starter that is larger than required? For example, say a 1hp motor requires a 00 starter, but I have an extra size 1 starter laying around. Assuming I use the correct thermal elements sized according to the 1hp motor, I imagine it would work fine, but is this considered bad practice or prohibited by code?

 

[fsmyth]

Absolutely nothing. Assuming that you can find
the correct heaters
<als>

 

[jraef]

Aslo pay attention to the Short Circuit Protective Device (SCPD) in the starter. If it is fses, just replace them with the size appropriate for your load. If it is a circuit breaker, it may need to be changed because the lowest settings may be too high for that motor.

"Our virtues and our failings are inseparable, like force and matter. When they separate, man is no more." Nikola Tesla
Read the Eng-Tips Site Policies at faq731-376
Member, [blue]P³[/blue]

 

[aolalde]

As far as you adjust the overload and short circuit protection properly, it will work and probably last for many more years than the specified size, cost is the difference.

 

[ScottyUK]

If we extend this discussion to DC contactors, using an oversized contactor can have a detrimental effect if the contactor employs a magnetic blow-out on the poles. These contactors use the magnetic field generated by the load current to help break the arc - if the contactor is hugely oversized then the magnetic field generated by the current is weaker than the contactor was designed for and the arc extinguishing capability of the pole is reduced.



----------------------------------

One day my ship will come in.
But with my luck, I'll be at the airport!