What happens when two power phase leads are swapped in a three-phase motor?

When two power phase leads are swapped in a three-phase motor, the motor will reverse its direction. In a three-phase system, the motor's rotation is determined by the sequence of the phases. By switching any two of the three phases, you alter that sequence, causing the magnetic field that drives the rotor to change direction. This reversal leads the motor to spin in the opposite direction compared to its original configuration.

Understanding this principle is crucial in applications involving motors, as it allows for directional control without physically changing the motor’s setup. It's commonly used in scenarios where reversing the direction of a motor is required, such as in conveyors or pumps.