Induction motors are available in three-phase and single-phase power input types.
The wiring method differs depending on the power supply voltage.
- Three-phase power input type
A three-phase induction motor will rotate in the opposite direction if any two of the wires R, S, or T in Figure 1 are swapped.
Instantaneous forward and reverse rotation places a heavy load on the gears, which can damage them and shorten their lifespan.
Switch the direction of rotation only after the motor has stopped.

- Single-phase power input type
Single-phase induction motors come in three-lead and four-lead varieties. With a
three-lead motors, you can easily reverse the direction by swapping the white and red wires on the left side as shown in Figure 2.
To reverse the direction of a four-lead induction motor, swap the dark blue and light blue wires.
For this reason, connect the motor as shown in Figure 3.
With single-phase induction motors, if the inertial load is large, the direction of rotation will not change if you try to instantly reverse the direction.
Change the direction of rotation after the motor has stopped.
If you want to instantly reverse the direction of rotation while the motor is rotating, use a reversible motor.
- In the video below, you can see how a single-phase induction motor and a reversible motor work when the direction of rotation is switched while they are in operation.


https://www.orientalmotor.com/ac-motors-gear-motors/ac-motor-videos/how-wire-operate-k2-induction-motor.html
https://www.orientalmotor.com/ac-motors-gear-motors/ac-motor-videos/how-wire-operate-k2-reversible-motor.html