2 HP AC Motors
Last Updated: January 16, 2025 Reviewed by: Jon Lowy, consulting engineer
Description
HP AC Motors, specifically their 2-horsepower variants, are electric motors that convert alternating current electrical energy into mechanical energy, delivering 1.49 kilowatts of power output. These motors operate using standard electrical power supplies and are engineered to provide consistent rotational force across various speed ranges while maintaining stable temperature levels during extended operation periods.
Working Principle
These motors function through electromagnetic induction, where alternating current flowing through stator windings creates a rotating magnetic field. This field interacts with the rotor's induced magnetic field, causing continuous rotation. The 2 HP rating indicates the motor's ability to deliver sustained power at 1.49 kW, making them suitable for applications requiring moderate but consistent power output. The design typically incorporates thermal protection mechanisms and sealed bearings to ensure reliable operation.
Applications
These motors are extensively used in industrial conveyor systems, particularly in food processing facilities where consistent speed control is crucial. They're commonly found in commercial air handling units for medium-sized office buildings and retail spaces. Machine shops frequently employ them in metalworking equipment like lathes and milling machines. They're also utilized in agricultural settings for grain augers and small irrigation pumps. The printing industry relies on them for paper feeding mechanisms in medium-format printing presses.
Advantages over other AC Motors
The 2 HP AC motors demonstrate superior starting torque compared to similarly sized single-phase motors, typically achieving 200% of full-load torque during startup. They exhibit better speed regulation under varying loads, maintaining speed within 5% of rated value compared to the 10-15% variation common in lower-powered motors. Their power factor typically ranges between 0.82-0.85, higher than comparable lower-powered motors that average 0.7-0.75, resulting in more efficient power utilization.
Limitations
These motors struggle with applications requiring frequent start-stop cycles, as this can lead to excessive heat buildup in the windings. They show reduced efficiency when operating significantly below their rated load, typically dropping below 75% efficiency when running at less than 50% capacity. Altitude limitations become apparent above 3,000 meters, where power output can decrease by up to 15% due to reduced air density affecting cooling efficiency.
Considerations
Initial investment for 2 HP AC motors typically ranges from $300-$800, varying by manufacturer and specific features. Operating costs average $0.08-$0.12 per hour at full load under normal conditions. Expected service life spans 15-20 years with proper maintenance, though bearing replacement is typically necessary every 15,000-20,000 operating hours. Maintenance costs generally run $100-$200 annually, including regular bearing lubrication and electrical system checks. Installation must account for proper ventilation space, typically requiring 6-8 inches of clearance on all sides for adequate cooling.
from Hangzhou Chinabase Machinery Co., Ltd.
Y series three-phase asynchronous electric motor, as the latest series designed in China, is enclosed self-ventilation air-cooling cage A/C asynchronous electric motor. Its protective grade is IP44. The Y series electric motor has a lot of advantages including: high efficiency, large starting rotor... [See More]
- Output Power: 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 380 V
- AC Construction: Induction
- Phase: Three-phase
from Yaskawa America, Inc. - Drives Division
1/4 - 30 HP. BlackMAX inverter (Vector) duty motors offer 1000:1 constant torque (TENV). This three phase motor is designed for inverter or vector applications where up to 1000:1 constant torque speed range is required. Typical uses include: Material handling, machine tools, conveyors, crane and... [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Output Power: 2
- Phase: Three-phase
- Continuous Current: 3 to 6
from Yaskawa America, Inc. - Drives Division
1-350 HP. The BlueMAX is a totally enclosed, three phase motor designed for inverter or vector applications where up to a 2000:1 constant torque speed range is required. Typical uses include: Material handling, machine tools, conveyors, crane and hoist, metal processing, test stands, pumps,... [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Output Power: 2
- Phase: Three-phase
- Continuous Current: 3 to 6
from Yaskawa America, Inc. - Drives Division
1/8 - 10 HP; 1800 RPM. MicroMAX inverter (Vector) duty motors offer 1000:1 constant torque (TENV), 20:1 constant torque (TEFC) in a totally enclosed design. This three phase motor is designed for direct replacement of PMDC or any other variable speed applications where up to 1000:1 constant torque... [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Output Power: 2
- Phase: Three-phase
- Continuous Current: 2.9 to 5.8
from Yaskawa America, Inc. - Drives Division
1/2-30 HP, vector duty. The SyMAX ® motor is the next generation of technology in motor efficiency and performance. The SyMAX permanent magnet AC motors offer unique solutions for today ’s demanding applications. This product ’s unparalleled power density, unprecedented performance,... [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Continuous Current: 3.16 to 6.32
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 230/460
- Shaft Speed: 1800
from Hymark/Kentucky Gauge
Standard IEC metric sizes, variable AC power input options. IEC 60034-30 IE3 Premium efficiency, low vibration, low noise. Output 750W (1HP) ~ 2200W (3HP). Insulation F class [See More]
- Output Power: 1 HP; 2 HP
- Output Power: 1 to 3
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
The WSS Series stainless steel motors are 3-phase industrial grade washdown duty motors made with 300 grade stainless steel housing. These fractional HP motors come in sizes from 1/3 to 2 H.P. and are available with a double reinforced welded 56H base or without a base in the round body style. [See More]
- Output Power: 300 W; 1/2 HP; 1 HP; 2 HP
- Phase: Three-phase
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz; International Voltages
- Output Power: 0.3330 to 2
from Nidec Corporation
Widely used in industrial applications. Robust, with comparatively simple structures, and can run on industrial power. Our lineup features a wide-variety of motors from the standard series to the applied series to match with equipment in a wide variety of fields for industrial use. [See More]
- Output Power: 1/4 HP; 300 W; 1/2 HP; 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 2300V to 6999V; 120V/60Hz; 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz; 575/600V/60Hz
- AC Construction: Induction
- Phase: Three-phase
from Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc.
MR-J4 family of products leverages cutting edge technology to provide a high functionality, high performance solution with the most flexible amplifier in the Mitsubishi Electric lineup. This family of products has been designed with the user experience, machine performance, and the environment in... [See More]
- Output Power: 1/4 HP; 300 W; 1/2 HP; 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- Shaft Speed: 2000 to 3000
- Output Power: 0.0670 to 29.48
- Features: Brake (optional feature)
from Thor Power Corporation
Our Permanent Magnet Alternating Current (PMAC) three-phase power device is slotless, sensorless with permanent magnet rotor, providing smooth variable speed over the complete rpm range from start-up to 30,000rpm, unlike the ratcheting trapezoidal step function of a Brushless Direct Current (BLDC). [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- AC Construction: Synchronous
- Commutation: Brushless
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 120V/60Hz; 208-230/240V 60Hz; International Voltages; 400Hz / Aerospace
from Johnson Electric Group
The Johnson Electric Universal motor series is an industry benchmark for many applications including home technologies, personal care and power equipment. The Quattro Pole product line sets a new performance standard by providing a 30% improvement in power density. This range of Universal and... [See More]
- Output Power: 1/2 HP; 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 120V/60Hz; 208-230/240V 60Hz
- AC Construction: Quattro Pole
- Phase: Single-phase
from Westinghouse Electric Corporation
A premier line of industry-leading AC and DC motors and generators that drive innovation in industries from petroleum and paper to mining and marine propulsion. [See More]
- Output Power: 300 W; 1/2 HP; 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- Phase: Single-phase (optional feature); Three-phase (optional feature)
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 120V/60Hz (optional feature); 208-230/240V 60Hz (optional feature); 460/480V/60Hz (optional feature)
- Output Power: 0.3300 to 2000
from WorldWide Electric Corporation
2-300 HP. 1800, 3600 RPM. 208-230/460 volt (2-100 HP). 460 volt (125-300 HP). TEXP enclosure. 1.15 service factor. Class F insulation. C-face - rigid base. Premium efficiency (2-200 HP). High efficiency (250-300 HP). Inverter duty, 5:1 CT / 10:1 VT (1-200 HP only). Three normally closed winding... [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Output Power: 2
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz
- Continuous Current: 2.8
from Techtop Industries, Inc.
Three Phase-Aluminum-NEMA EPAct-TEFC [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Phase: Three-phase
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz
- Output Power: 2
from Toshiba America, Inc.
The Motors & Drives division offers a full range of low and medium voltage motors and adjustable speed drives. These products, hallmarked for quality, performance, and durability, can be customized to meet the most demanding applications. TIC entered the electric motors market in 1970 and has... [See More]
- Output Power: 1/2 HP; 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- Phase: Single-phase
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 230 - 4160 Volts; 120V/60Hz; 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz; 575/600V/60Hz
- Output Power: 0.5000 to 5000
from Kollmorgen Corporation
The KBM ™ Series is designed to be directly embedded in your machine, using the machine ’s own bearings to support the rotor. With a huge selection of standard motors —plus our ability to quickly and cost-effectively incorporate co-engineered modifications —you can choose an... [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz
- Commutation: Brushless
- Output Power: 1.21 to 26.94
from Boston Gear
Overview. Boston Gear offers a wide range of ODP (open drip proof) AC motors, including brake motors. These motors are offered in C-Face models for mounting to our enclosed gear drives, and they are available in 1/6 - 20 HP and cover voltage ranges from 115 VAC to 460 VAC. These motors are ideally... [See More]
- Output Power: 1/4 HP; 300 W; 1/2 HP; 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- Output Power: 0.1667 to 20
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 120V/60Hz; 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz
- Units: English
from Demag Cranes & Components
The Demag KB conical-rotor brake motor provides you with a brake motor that utilizes a unique operating principle: The brake is not separately controlled, but firmly connected to the rotor, i.e. integrated. This means that motor start-up and brake release as well as motor switch-off and brake... [See More]
- Output Power: 1/4 HP; 300 W; 1/2 HP; 1 HP; 2 HP
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz; 575/600V/60Hz (optional feature); International Voltages (optional feature)
- AC Construction: Induction
- Phase: Three-phase
from GE Power Conversion
Setting the standard with powerful features. IEEE 841 X$D Ultra ® motors meet or exceed the IEEE 841-2009 standard. With an advanced bearing system and class H inverter duty insulation, a test report of each motor to ensure performance, five-year warranty, and all the advanced features that come... [See More]
- Output Power: 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- Output Power: 0.7371 to 295
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 200V - 690V; 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz; 575/600V/60Hz
- Shaft Orientation: In-line; Single-ended
from Wolong Electric Industrial Motors
Designed for use in blowers, fans, pumps, conveyors, material handling, compressors and other inverter duty applications. Features and Benefits. Standard features. Infinity: 1 CT speed range CH to 90 Hz. IGBT Compatible. N/C thermostat. Opposite DE mounting face and stub shaft for tach mounting. [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- AC Motor Features: Multi-speed
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz; 575/600V/60Hz
- Output Power: 1.5 to 300
from WorldWide Electric Corporation
2-100 HP. 3600, 1800 and 1200 RPM. 208-230/460 volt. TEXP enclosure. 1.15 service factor. Class F insulation. Class B temperature rise. C-face - rigid base. Premium Efficiency. NEMA Design B. Suitable for 50 hz operation with 1.0 service factor. Inverter duty, 4:1 CT (Constant) / 10:1 CT... [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Output Power: 2
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz
- Continuous Current: 3
from Techtop Industries, Inc.
Three Phase-Aluminum-NEMA Premium-TEFC [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Phase: Three-phase
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz
- Output Power: 2
from Boston Gear
Overview. Boston Gear offers a wide range TEFC (Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled) AC motors. These motors are offered in both C-Face for mounting to enclosed gear drives and in rigid base models. These NEMA design B motors are available from 1/6 - 75 HP and cover voltage ranges from 115 VAC to 575 VAC. [See More]
- Output Power: 1/4 HP; 300 W; 1/2 HP; 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- Output Power: 0.1667 to 75
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 120V/60Hz; 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz; 575/600V/60Hz
- Units: English
from Demag Cranes & Components
Our Z cylindrical-rotor motors perform a wide variety of industrial drive tasks – reliably and effectively. They are suitable for a broad range of applications, offering outstanding performance: motor output up to 72 HP (45 kW). inverter-fed drives for travel applications, line-fed travel and... [See More]
- Output Power: 1/2 HP; 1 HP; 2 HP
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz; 575/600V/60Hz (optional feature); International Voltages (optional feature)
- AC Construction: Induction
- Phase: Three-phase
from Wolong Electric Industrial Motors
GE has been manufacturing premium efficient motors since the late 1970s. The latest Energy Saver design meets EISAct (Energy Independence & Security Act 2007) efficiency levels (which are based on NEMA Premium ® MG1 table 12-12). Other standards and certifications include CSA-Motors and... [See More]
- Output Power: 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- Output Power: 1 to 250
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz; 575/600V/60Hz; International Voltages (optional feature)
- Units: English
from WorldWide Electric Corporation
1-250 HP. 3600, 1800 and 1200 RPM. 208-230/460 volt (1-125 HP). 460 volt (150-250 HP). TEXP enclosure. 1.15 service factor. Class F insulation with Class N varnish. Class B temperature rise. Rigid base. Premium Efficiency, meets or exceeds EISA 2007 requirements defined in NEMA MG-1 table 12-12. [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Output Power: 2
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz
- Continuous Current: 3
from Techtop Industries, Inc.
Three Phase-Cast Iron-NEMA EPAct-TEFC [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Phase: Three-phase
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz
- Output Power: 2
from Boston Gear
Overview. Boston Gear offers a wide range of TENV (totally enclosed, non-ventilated) AC motors that are ideal for environments where dirt or dust would contaminate a TEFC model motor. They are available in both C-face, for mounting on our enclosed gear drives, or in rigid base models. The NEMA... [See More]
- Output Power: 1/4 HP; 300 W; 1/2 HP; 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- Output Power: 0.1667 to 10
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 120V/60Hz; 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz; 575/600V/60Hz
- Units: English
from Wolong Electric Industrial Motors
GE has been manufacturing premium efficient motors since the late 1970s. The latest Energy Saver design meets EISAct (Energy Independence & Security Act 2007) efficiency levels (which are based on NEMA Premium ® MG1 table 12-12). Other standards and certifications include CSA-Motors and... [See More]
- Output Power: 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- Output Power: 1 to 300
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 200; 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz; 575/600V/60Hz; International Voltages (optional feature)
- Units: English
from WorldWide Electric Corporation
1-300 HP. 3600, 1800 and 1200 RPM. 208-230/460 volt (1-100 HP). 460 volt (125-300 HP). TEXP enclosure. 1.15 service factor. Class F insulation. Rigid base. Premium efficiency (1-200 HP). High efficiency (250-300 HP). Inverter duty, 5:1 CT / 10:1 VT (1-200 HP only). Three normally closed winding... [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Output Power: 2
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz
- Continuous Current: 2.9
from Techtop Industries, Inc.
Three Phase-Cast Iron-NEMA Premium-TEFC [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Phase: Three-phase
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz
- Output Power: 2
from Wolong Electric Industrial Motors
The XSD Ultra ® family of products ranges from 1-300 HP and is built to the highest standards to maximize your return on investment. XSD Ultra is a complete cast iron motor exceeding NEMA Premium ® Efficiency standards. The Six Star Bearing System ™ ensures long bearing life and is... [See More]
- Output Power: 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- Phase: Three-phase
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz; 575/600V/60Hz; International Voltages
- AC Motor Features: Reversible (optional feature)
from WorldWide Electric Corporation
1/3 - 2 HP. 1800 RPM. 115/230 volt - 60 Hz. TEFC enclosure - IP54 degree of protection. High torque. 1.15 service factor. Class F insulation. VPI copper windings. Rigid base - 56H. Capacitor start / induction run (1/3 - 1 HP). Capacitor start / capacitor run (1.5 - 2 HP) for reduced amperage and... [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Output Power: 2
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 120V/60Hz
- Continuous Current: 19.6
from Wolong Electric Industrial Motors
The XSD Ultra ® family of products ranges from 1-300 HP and is built to the highest standards to maximize your return on investment. XSD Ultra is a complete cast iron motor exceeding NEMA Premium ® Efficiency standards. The Six Star Bearing System ™ ensures long bearing life and is... [See More]
- Output Power: 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- Phase: Three-phase
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz; 575/600V/60Hz; International Voltages
- Output Power: 1 to 300
from WorldWide Electric Corporation
2-10 HP. 1800 RPM. 208-230 Volt. Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) Enclosure. IP55 Protection. 1.15 SF. Class F Insulation. Rigid Base and C-Face with Feet. With Manual Overload. Shaft Seals on Both Ends of the Motor [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Output Power: 2
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz
- Continuous Current: 7.8
from Wolong Electric Industrial Motors
The XSD Ultra ® family of products ranges from 1-300 HP and is built to the highest standards to maximize your return on investment. XSD Ultra is a complete cast iron motor exceeding NEMA Premium ® Efficiency standards. The Six Star Bearing System ™ ensures long bearing life and is... [See More]
- Output Power: 1 HP; 2 HP; 5 HP / 3.6 KW
- Phase: Three-phase
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz; 575/600V/60Hz
- AC Motor Features: Reversible (optional feature)
from WorldWide Electric Corporation
1/3-2 HP. 3600 and 1800 RPM. 115/208-230 volt. TEFC enclosure. 1.15 service factor. Class F insulation. C-face - removable base. Capacitor start / induction run (1/3-1 HP). Capacitor start / capacitor run (1.5-2 HP) for reduced amperage and high torque. Shaft slinger to keep moisture and... [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Output Power: 2
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 120V/60Hz
- Continuous Current: 9.8
from WorldWide Electric Corporation
Rigid Base: 1/2 - 2 HP; 1800 RPM. 1/3-3 HP. 3600 and 1800 RPM. 208-230/460 volt. TEFC enclosure. 1.15 service factor. Class F insulation. C-face - removable base. Shaft slinger to keep moisture and contaminants from the drive-end bearing. Inverter duty. Suitable for 50 hz operation with 1.0 service... [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Output Power: 2
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 208-230/240V 60Hz; 460/480V/60Hz
- Continuous Current: 2.9
from WorldWide Electric Corporation
1/3-2HP. 3600 RPM. 115/208-230 volt. TEFC enclosure. 1.15 service factor. Class F insulation. C-face - removable base. 304 stainless steel threaded shaft. Capacitor start / induction run (1/3 - 1 HP). Capacitor start / capacitor run (1.5 - 2 HP). for reduced amperage and high torque. VPI copper... [See More]
- Output Power: 2 HP
- Output Power: 2
- AC Voltage & Frequency: 120V/60Hz
- Continuous Current: 8.5