Feature

Why you should upgrade to IE5 ultra-premium motor efficiency

Upgrading to a package that combines a synchronous reluctance motor (SynRM) with an IE5 ultra-premium efficiency rating and a variable speed drive (VSD) not only saves on energy and maintenance costs, but improves productivity and answers sustainability concerns – Tero Helpio of ABB Motion explains.

02/06/2021 11:26:58

While electric motors keep the world turning safely and reliably, there is a price to pay in terms of energy consumption and associated CO2 emissions. Around 70 percent of all electricity used by industry is consumed by electric motor systems.

The EU Ecodesign Regulation addresses this for low-voltage motors by establishing and enforcing International Efficiency (IE) classes defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). From July 2021, it sets IE3 as the minimum standard, including motors used with VSDs. There is also the IE5 ultra-premium rating that goes well beyond the EU Ecodesign regulation, but some manufacturers are already supplying motors compliant with it. Industrial operators can upgrade now and enjoy practical and economic advantages – as well as demonstrating their environmental responsibility.

IE5 SynRM motors can reduce energy losses by 40 percent and significantly lower energy consumption, compared to the commonly used IE3 induction motors. Exact energy savings vary with applications and conditions, but industrial case studies with SynRM motor and VSD packages have shown typical reductions in energy bills of from 14 to 25 percent, compared to the replaced motors.

If 80 percent of today’s installed industrial motors were replaced by IE5 units, the estimated annual energy saving would equate to the annual power consumption of Poland. There are also other substantial benefits to be gained from IE5 SynRM motors, including lower maintenance needs, higher reliability, longer equipment life, and better performance...

Read the full article in the June issue of DPA

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.