240V Single Phase Electric Motors

HankeMotor stocks single phase electric motors from 0.18kW (0.25HP) to 5.5kW (7.5HP) for Australian 240V power supply. All motors are in stock at our Glen Waverley, Victoria warehouse with same-day or next-day dispatch. The range covers general purpose, air compressor duty, reversible, and cement mixer motors — the most common requirements for workshops, farms, and light industrial applications across Australia.

2-Pole (2800rpm) vs 4-Pole (1400rpm): Which Speed Do You Need?

Speed is determined by the number of poles, not by voltage or power rating. This is the most common source of motor selection errors.

Air compressor replacement motors almost always require a 2-pole (2800rpm) motor. Check the compressor pump shaft size and the current motor's frame before ordering.

Understanding Single Phase Motor Start Types (CSCR, CSIR, PSC)

Single phase motors use a starting capacitor to create a rotating magnetic field. The start type determines how the motor starts and whether it can reverse direction:

If your application requires reversible operation (e.g., a hoist, winch, or conveyor that needs to run both directions), confirm the motor description says "reversible CSCR" before purchasing.

Mounting Configuration: B3 Foot, B14 Flange, B5 Flange

Single phase motors are available in different mounting configurations. Identify your existing mount before ordering a replacement:

Frame size determines the physical dimensions and shaft height. IEC frame sizes in this range: 56, 63, 71, 80, 90S, 90L, 100L, 112M. If replacing an existing motor, match the frame size to ensure the shaft height and bolt pattern are identical.

Compressor Duty vs General Purpose Motors

Not all single phase motors are suitable for direct air compressor duty. Compressor duty motors have:

Using a standard general-purpose motor on a compressor will result in premature capacitor and bearing failure. Always select a motor listed as "compressor motor" or "air compressor duty" for this application.

What single phase motor do I need for a 2.2kW air compressor pump?

A 2.2kW reciprocating compressor pump typically requires a 2.2kW–3kW 2-pole (2800rpm) CSCR single phase motor with a 24mm shaft. The motor must be rated for compressor duty (higher starting torque), not general purpose. Check your pump's shaft size — 19mm and 24mm are the two most common sizes in this power range. HankeMotor stocks both.

Can I use a single phase motor on a VFD (variable frequency drive)?

Standard single phase induction motors are not designed for VFD operation. A VFD requires a three-phase motor output. If you want variable speed from a single-phase 240V supply, the correct solution is a single-to-three-phase VFD paired with a three-phase motor — the VFD converts your single phase input to three phase output.

What is the difference between kW and HP ratings?

1 HP = 0.746 kW. Common conversions for quick reference: 0.5HP = 0.37kW, 1HP = 0.75kW, 1.5HP = 1.1kW, 2HP = 1.5kW, 3HP = 2.2kW, 5HP = 3.7kW, 7.5HP = 5.5kW. Australian electrical standards use kW; many older machine nameplates list HP. Always confirm by reading both the HP and kW from the nameplate.

Related: Variable Frequency Drives | Worm Gearboxes | Air Compressors