What condition in a motor is caused by a load that exceeds the full-load rating of the motor?

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The condition in a motor caused by a load that exceeds the full-load rating of the motor is known as overload. When a motor is subjected to an excessive load beyond its designed capacity, it generates more current than it is rated for, leading to increased heat generation. This situation can cause the motor to operate inefficiently and can ultimately result in mechanical failure or damage to the winding insulation.

When a motor runs under overload conditions, it may also trigger protective devices, such as overload relays or circuit breakers, designed to safeguard the motor from damage due to prolonged excessive load. By shutting down the motor when it detects overload, these devices help prevent potential catastrophic failures and ensure the longevity of the motor.

While overcurrent refers to the condition where the current exceeds the motor's maximum current rating, it is often a consequence of overload rather than a distinct condition. Overtemperature typically describes a situation where the motor's temperature rises above safe operating levels, which can be caused by overload but does not specifically define the state of exceeding the motor's rated load. Overdrive is not a standard term used in motor protection contexts and does not directly correlate with load conditions.

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