In an induction motor, the stator and the rotor are two essential components that work together to create the rotating magnetic field necessary for the motor's operation. Here's the difference between the two:
Stator:
The stator is the stationary part of the induction motor. It consists of a core made of laminated steel sheets and a set of evenly spaced coils, usually made of copper wire, wound around the core. These coils are connected to the power supply, and when alternating current (AC) flows through them, they generate a rotating magnetic field. The stator's primary function is to create this magnetic field that induces currents in the rotor, causing it to rotate.
Rotor:
The rotor is the rotating part of the induction motor, located inside the stator. It is typically made up of a cylindrical core with slots to hold conductors. The conductors can be either copper or aluminum bars, and they are often connected to form a closed loop or squirrel-cage configuration. When the rotating magnetic field generated by the stator cuts across the conductors of the rotor, it induces currents in the rotor bars. These induced currents interact with the magnetic field, creating a force that causes the rotor to turn. The rotor's movement is what produces mechanical output, making the motor useful for various applications.
In summary, the stator creates the rotating magnetic field necessary for the motor's operation, while the rotor responds to this field by rotating, which in turn drives the mechanical load attached to the motor. This interaction between the stator and rotor is the fundamental principle behind the functioning of induction motors.