How to Read a Vibration Motor Nameplate

A vibration motor nameplate is the best starting point when identifying an installed motor. It brings together information that helps distinguish one electrical and mechanical variant from another, even when the motors look almost identical.

You do not need to interpret every marking before making an enquiry. A sharp photograph of the complete plate often saves more time than copying a few familiar numbers and leaving the rest out.

Photograph the plate before transcribing it

Take a straight, well lit photograph that includes the edges of the plate. Check the image at full size to make sure letters, slashes and decimal points remain readable. If reflections hide part of the text, take a second photograph from a different angle.

Access the plate only when the machine is safely isolated where necessary. Include a wider photograph showing the motor and its mounting position. This helps relate the nameplate to the actual installation.

Model code and serial number

The model code identifies the motor type and variant. Suffixes can matter, so record the whole line rather than stopping at the main series name. The serial number provides a separate reference that may help the manufacturer trace the unit.

Do not assume that model numbering works the same way across brands. A number that represents one characteristic in an OLI designation may have a different meaning in an Invicta or Friedrich designation. Use the manufacturer’s data to interpret it.

Voltage and connection information

The voltage field describes the rated electrical supply conditions. A three phase motor may show more than one voltage with corresponding connection symbols. These values must be read together with the connection diagram and supply details.

For example, a plate showing 230/400 V with delta/star symbols describes a particular voltage and connection relationship. It should not be interpreted as permission to connect the motor in either arrangement on any supply. Have the electrical arrangement confirmed against the exact documentation.

Frequency speed and current

Frequency is normally marked in hertz, or Hz. Check whether the plate gives separate information for 50 Hz and 60 Hz operation. Read each rating as part of its corresponding set rather than combining values from different columns.

Speed is normally expressed in rpm. Current is expressed in amperes, often shown as A. Rated current is not the same as a measurement taken during a fault, and it is not a complete instruction for setting the machine’s protection equipment.

Power and centrifugal force

Power is commonly shown in kW. Centrifugal force, where included, may be shown in newtons, kilonewtons or a manufacturer’s stated force convention. These are different quantities and should be copied with their units.

Not every nameplate includes the complete force information or the current eccentric weight setting. If either is missing, consult the technical sheet and installation record. Never substitute the motor’s physical weight for its force rating.

Other markings worth recording

Duty designation, enclosure protection, insulation class and temperature information can all affect suitability. Where special environmental certification is required, photograph the complete marking and retain the associated documents.

A cropped photograph containing only the main model number may omit precisely the information that distinguishes a standard unit from a special version. Send the whole plate even if some of the markings seem unfamiliar.

What the nameplate cannot tell you

The plate does not establish the condition of the mounting structure, the spring arrangement or the material being handled. It may also predate changes made to the machine.

Combine it with fixing dimensions, application details and any service history. Our replacement vibration motor guide explains how to turn those details into a complete purchasing enquiry.

Send us the details

If you are unsure which motor is installed, send Spiral Elevators a readable nameplate image and a description of the equipment. Browse our vibrator motor range to see the brands available, then ask us to review the full specification before ordering a replacement.