Whirlpool acronym

[jeff lee]

Can anyone tell me what the " PTC" acronym stands for when referencing a compressor relay on a Whirlpool fridge?

Push That Chevy?, Pete The Cat?

Thanks in advance !

[RegUS_PatOff]

Positive Temperature Coefficient

usually refers to resistors that increase in resistance with temperature

[Rocket Man]

Positve Temperature Coeffecient (PTC). The higher the temperature, the more resistance. Usually used in Compressor circuits, to lessen the current flowing through one of the windings as it runs.

[jeff lee]

Thanks to both of you..

Please excuse my ignorance, but why would you want to reduce amperage to the comp. as temperature rises?

Excuse me again guys I Wiki'd it, am attempting to absorb the info there !

[kdog]

Used to energize start winding during start up, as the compressor gets uo to speed, the occuring heat generated by flowingcurrent through the PTC, causes the conductor to become a resistor - thereby removing the start winding from the circuit. Manufacturers use them as compressor starters because their production (including replacement sales) is cheaper than alternative starter technologies.

[KurtiusInterupptus]

The ptc relay aids In arc suppression at point of contact...limits on rush amperage to slow the inevitable degradation of contact points....

[kdog]

" PTC" compressor relay on a Whirlpool fridge?

Some common examples:

This is what a NON-PTC starter looks like: