Advantages and Disadvantages of a DOL Starter: Full Guide!

A Direct On Line (DOL) starter is a common type of electrical starter that is used to start electric motors. It is a simple and cost-effective solution for controlling the starting and stopping of motors in a variety of industrial and commercial applications. However, like any electrical equipment, a DOL starter has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will explore the key benefits and drawbacks of using a DOL starter.

Advantages of DOL Starter

The benefits of a DOL (direct online) starter are:

• DOL starter has the shortest starting time compared to other starting methods.
• It is a cheap solution. Because it does not require so many components.
• It is very easy to implement.
• Troubleshooting a DOL starter is very easy.
• It provides 100% torque at starting. If the high starting current does not affect the power supply system and the machinery will stand the high starting torque, then full-voltage starting may be acceptable.
• It is compact in size.
• Smaller sizes of DOL starters are manually operated; larger sizes use an electromechanical contactor to switch the motor circuit.
• Only one set of cables is required from the starter to the motor.
• The on-off switches can be installed away from the motor.
• It reduces the time to reach a steady state.

Disadvantages of DOL Starter

The drawbacks of a DOL (direct online) starter are:

• The starting current is very large, normally 6 to 8 times the rated current.
• A high starting (inrush) current causes a voltage drop in the power supply, which can cause interference in other equipment connected to the same installation.
• It has a high starting torque. It could cause heavy wear & tear on couplings, gearboxes, etc.
• The only possible way to stop the motor is to make a direct stop. The direct stop may not be preferred in pump and conveyor systems.
• Magnetization peaks can occur. (up to 20 times the rated current)
• It could oversize cables and contactors compared to other starting methods.
• Limitation in the number of starts/hours.
• Only suitable for motors of rating less than 5…10 kW

In conclusion, a Direct On Line (DOL) starter is a widely used and cost-effective solution for controlling the starting and stopping of electric motors. Its advantages include a short starting time, easy implementation, and easy troubleshooting. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as a high starting current and torque, which may cause wear and tear on equipment, and limitation in the number of starts per hour. Therefore, when selecting a starter for an electric motor, it is essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of a DOL starter against other starting methods and the specific requirements of the application.

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