If a NORMALLY operating motor suddenly stops, what should you suspect?

When a normally operating motor suddenly stops, suspecting electrical overload is logical because this condition can occur when the motor is subjected to a load greater than its rated capacity. An electrical overload often causes the motor's thermal protection to engage, leading to a shutdown to prevent damage. The motor's protection system is designed to interrupt power to avoid overheating and mechanical failure, making this the most immediate and plausible reason for an unexpected stop.

In an electrical system, overload can stem from various sources, such as gear jams, increased friction, or a malfunctioning component. This creates a significant strain that the motor cannot handle, triggering safety mechanisms. Recognizing this helps in troubleshooting and allows for prompt corrective actions, ensuring the longevity of the motor.

Other potential causes, like overvoltage, worn bushes, or improper connections, are also relevant, but they may not be the most typical reasons for a sudden stop. Overvoltage would likely cause other symptoms besides a sudden halt, such as excessive heat or sparking. Worn bushings typically lead to gradual degradation in performance, and improper connections may result in intermittent operation before complete failure rather than a sudden stop. Thus, considering electrical overload as the immediate suspect aligns with common operational issues encountered in motor performance.