Which NEMA design letter corresponds to high starting torque?

• A. C
• B. B
• C. D
• D. A

Answer: (A)

Starting torque is the torque a motor develops at the moment it begins to slip from standstill. NEMA design types differentiate motors by how much starting torque they provide, with some designs optimized for a strong initial push. The best choice here is the design that is specified for high starting torque, because the question asks for the option that delivers the greatest torque at the start to overcome static friction and start the load moving. This design sacrifices some efficiency or running performance to achieve that strong initial surge. The other designs favor smoother starts or better running efficiency but do not provide as much torque at start.