How does increased heat affect motor insulation?

Increased heat significantly impacts motor insulation, leading to quicker degradation of insulation materials. Insulation in electric motors is designed to withstand specific temperatures, and when exposed to excessive heat, the thermal properties of the insulation can break down. This breakdown can manifest in various ways, such as increased brittleness, reduced dielectric strength, and loss of flexibility, ultimately compromising the insulation's electrical and mechanical properties.

As insulation degrades, the risk of electrical shorts, arcing, and motor failure increases, affecting the overall reliability and lifespan of the motor. Therefore, it is crucial to manage temperature effectively to maintain the integrity of insulation and ensure motor performance. The other options, which suggest improvements, neutrality, or enhancements to insulation due to increased heat, do not reflect the reality of how heat affects the insulation in motors.