Electric motor disconnect/overload sensor.

[Jamnanc]

Is there a way to install some sort of overload protection on a cord for an ac electric motor? In particular, a motor that could get bound or stopped then burn itself out.

[Sparky]

Yes.

[Jamnanc]

Tell me it's not just a fuse. And if it's that cheap and easy, why don't manufacturers supply them on electric motors.

[Sparky]

A lot of it depends on the size of the motor. Typically you need a disconnecting means and a motor control center with the appropriate overloads. Can be pretty expensive.

[PSS]

Here's an inexpensive solution rated for 1 HP for an example.
http://www.superbreakers.net/2510fg2...7HtRoCLj7w_wcB

[PSS]

Quite a few single phase motors do include thermal overload protection built into the motor. What's the specifics of the motor in question? Overloads have to be sized according to the full load current of the motor.