Possible to Rervese the Rotational Direction of a Single Phase Electric Motor?

[Woodsaw]

Is it possible to reverse the rotational direction of a single phase electric motor? I know this can be done easiely with 3 phase motor by switching a pair of wires. But how about a single phase AC motor?
Ideas are greatly appreciated:wsmile:.

Qui

 

[Bryan S]

You can do it but I cant remember how. Depending on how the motors wound is how. Look on the motor nameplate and it should show you.

 

[Alan in Little Washington]

Depends on the motor. Some are CW only, some CCW only, and some will rotate either direction by swapping a few wires- it should say on the motor ID plate what the rotation is, and if it is bi-directional, should show how to wire it for each direction. You are right, it is not like a 3 phase motor.

 

[Woodsaw]

Right now the motor turns CW.

Thanks.

 

[jerrye]

If all else fails, gears. Just two of them.

 

[Gotcha6]

Most single phase motors of particular frames can be reversed. Look on the nameplate & it should tell you which leads to change out. I did a couple of metal lathe motors this way with a Grainger reversing switch. The switch has contacts in it that change current flow to connected wires relative to their position - fwd - off - rev. Have an electrician look at the motor. If you're not sure you can do it, you're $$ ahead to pay him.