Most pumps and fans operating in commercial and industrial applications are currently driven by AC induction motors. “ACIM”, which means “alternating current induction motor”, can be an asynchronous type of motor that relies on electric current to carefully turn the rotor. Torque is produced by electric energy in the rotor. The electric current is generated through electromagnetic induction from the magnetic field of the permanent magnet synchronous motor stator windings. Within an ACIM, the rotor at all times rotates at a lower speed compared to the magnetic field. A “PMSM”, which stands for “permanent magnet synchronous engine”, relies on magnets to carefully turn the rotor, which spins at the same rate as the PMSM’s inner rotating magnetic field.

There are a few key differences among AC induction Motors and Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors.