Feature

IE6 hyper-efficiency motors are ready to roll

Robert Chin, Global R&D Manager IEC LV Motors at ABB, explains that while IE5 is regarded as the current state-of-the-art in energy efficiency, motors that meet the anticipated IE6 “hyper-efficiency” level are already commercially available in the form of synchronous reluctance (SynRM) technology. They offer a simple, cost-effective and magnet-free solution for the majority of applications.

02/09/2024 16:40:10

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In October 2023, the Energy Efficiency Movement (EEM) published its guide, ‘The Case for Industrial Energy Efficiency’. It explains that doubling energy efficiency by 2030 could cut greenhouse gas emissions by almost a third compared with today’s levels, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). For industrial players, the opportunity
is immense.

One of the 10 simple measures outlined in the guide is to adopt higher-efficiency electric motors. This would yield an estimated saving of almost two billion metric tons (gigatons) of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions a year by 2025, and more than four gigatons by 2030.

Around two-thirds of an
industrial enterprise’s electricity consumption, and consequent electricity-related CO2 emissions, is most likely related to powering motors in pumps, fans, compressors, and other equipment. If the 300 million-plus industrial electric motor-driven systems operating today were replaced with optimised, high-efficiency versions, worldwide electricity consumption could be cut by up to 10 percent.

Many governments
have responded to the urgent need to reduce global emissions by introducing efficiency regulations for motors. The EU has taken a leading role with the Ecodesign Directive which, since July 2023, has required IE4 ‘super-premium’ energy efficiency for many common types of motor in the range of 75-200kW. Other countries and
regions are following the EU’s lead.

However, implementing IE4 is just one step on the road. ‘Ultra-premium’ energy efficiency IE5 SynRM motors have made a significant impact on the market since their launch in 2019, and now the anticipated IE6 ‘hyper-efficiency’ level is available through the same well-proven technology...

Read the full article in DPA's September issue

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.