Starter Motors

What are Starter Motors?

These are devices used to crank the engine to initiate its operation. Once the car key is turned in the ignition, the engine turns and cranks. Cranking is initiated by the air flowing into the engine and is achieved by creating suction. If the engine does not turn, it means there is no air hence, fuel can’t combust. The starter motor aids in turning the engine during ignition and initiating other processes.

Types of Starter Motors

There are three types of starters- hydraulic, electric and pneumatic. Electric starters are the most common and are used on small diesel and gasoline engines. Modern electric starters either have a series-parallel or permanent magnet wound around a direct current electric motor and a starter solenoid mounted. When direct current from the starting battery is applied to the solenoid, it engages a lever that pushes out the drive pinion. The starter requires heavy electric current to start operation and is usually drawn from the battery. A solenoid is used to allow safe operation of the electromagnetic circuit. Pneumatic starters are used on diesel engines like large trucks. Since the trucks use air brakes, the starter is responsible for supplying compressed air to the brake system. Gas turbine engines also use pneumatic starters. Pneumatic starters offer the advantages of reliability, high torque and mechanical simplicity. They also eliminate the need for handling large, heavy storage batteries, especially in prime mover electrical systems. Hydraulic starters are mainly designed for marine pumping engines, remote generators and lifeboat engines.