If a 3-phase motor is running incorrectly in reverse rotation, what should you do?

In cases where a 3-phase motor is running in reverse rotation, the most effective solution is to swap two of the phase connections. Three-phase motors operate by creating a rotating magnetic field generated by the three phases of power supplied to them. The direction of this magnetic field— and thus the rotation of the motor— depends on the order in which the three phases are connected.

When two of the phase wires are exchanged, the sequence of the electrical supply to the motor changes, causing the magnetic field to rotate in the opposite direction. This is a straightforward and effective method for correcting the rotation direction of the motor without needing to physically alter the motor itself or replace components.

Other options might not resolve the issue effectively. For example, simply checking the wiring diagram may help ensure the proper wiring configuration but won't directly rectify the reverse rotation. Replacing the motor is unnecessary when the issue can be remedied by adjusting connections, which would represent a significant additional cost and effort. Adjusting the motor speed setting would not correct the direction of rotation and is irrelevant to the problem at hand. Swapping two phase connections is a direct and efficient method to achieve the desired outcome.