Which measure helps reduce startup overheating in centrifugal air compressors?

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Starting unloaded is the best approach because it minimizes the work the machine has to do during acceleration. When a centrifugal compressor is starting under load, the motor must drive both the rotor up to speed and the downstream pressure against the system, which means higher torque and a larger current draw. That combination generates more heat in the motor and bearings, increasing the risk of overheating.

By unloading during startup, the compressor spins up with little or no resistance from the downstream system. The motor current is lower and heat generation is reduced as speed increases. Once the rotor is up to speed, load is gradually applied, allowing the compressor to handle the compression task without excessive heat build-up.

Starting with higher voltage isn’t a reliable way to control heat and can stress insulation, and starting at full speed or starting loaded would place unnecessary stress and heat on the motor and compression system.