How much current can a motor start capacitor typically handle?

A motor start capacitor is designed specifically to provide a temporary boost of electrical energy to start an electric motor. The crucial factor here is that it can handle very little current for only a short duration, as its primary function is to assist in overcoming the initial inertia of the motor during startup.

Once the motor reaches a certain speed, the capacitor is typically disconnected from the circuit. If a start capacitor were to handle a significant amount of current for an extended period, it would risk overheating and potentially failing due to its design limitations. Additionally, prolonged high current could damage both the capacitor and the motor itself because the motor does not require assistance once it is running at normal operating conditions.

Understanding this aspect of start capacitors is vital for proper maintenance and troubleshooting in electrical systems, particularly in commercial food equipment where reliable motor operation is paramount.