Calculating Motor Speed:

A squirrel cage induction motor is a constant speed device. It cannot operate for any length of time at speeds below those shown on the nameplate without danger of burning out.

To Calculate the speed of a induction motor, apply this formula:

Srpm = 120 x F
            P

Srpm = synchronous revolutions per minute.
120   = constant
F       = supply frequency (in cycles/sec)
P       = number of motor winding poles

Example: What is the synchronous of a motor having 4 poles connected to a 60 hz power supply?

Srpm = 120 x F
            P
Srpm = 120 x 60
            4
Srpm = 7200
             4
Srpm = 1800 rpm