Integral-horsepower shunt motors, are used where the primary load requirements are for minimum speed variation from full-load to no-load and/or constant horsepower over an adjustable speed range at constant potential. Shunt motors are suitable for average starting torque loads.

Typical applications include individual drives for machine tools, such as drills and lathes, and centrifugal fans and blowers which are regulated by means of the discharge opening.