Thanks for your question!
The diagram you shared is a Star/Delta motor starter control circuit, which is widely used in industrial motor starting methods. Let’s break down your circuit:
How your circuit works:
- Initially, the motor is connected in a Star configuration, which allows the motor to start with reduced current and torque.
- After a preset time or based on certain voltage/current conditions, the circuit switches to Delta configuration, allowing full voltage and normal running speed.
- The circuit uses contactors, timers, overload relays, and the motor windings to control this sequence safely, preventing electrical and mechanical stress on the motor.
Why it cannot be implemented in DCAClab:
- DCAClab is an electronics circuit simulator, not an industrial electrical simulator.
- It supports resistors, capacitors, diodes, transistors, op-amps, ICs, logic gates, and other basic electronics components.
- It does not include components like contactors, motor windings, overload relays, or industrial three-phase AC setups, which are essential for Star/Delta motor starters.
- Therefore, a real Star/Delta motor starter circuit cannot be directly simulated in DCAClab.
Limitations of DCAClab for your circuit:
- No 3-phase motor simulation.
- No real contactor or relay switching under AC motor load.
- Cannot simulate overload protection or motor current behavior.
How to use DCAClab for learning:
- You can emulate the logic of Star/Delta starting using logic gates, timers (555 IC), and relay emulation.
- This will allow you to understand the sequence of operations, interlocking, and timing, even though it won’t run a real motor.
- Essentially, you can reproduce the control logic, which is great for learning and testing your ideas.
Alternative software for practical simulation:
- Automation Studio – complete industrial simulation.
- FluidSIM / Factory I/O – great for automation and motor control training.
- PSIM or Multisim (industrial extensions) – can simulate motors and AC circuits.
- Siemens LOGO! Soft Comfort – perfect for logic-based motor control.