Maintaining industrial and commercial machinery requires many tasks. One of the most significant responsibilities is inspecting, maintaining and repairing electrical motors. You need to ensure facility tools meet safety standards and efficiency requirements, and choosing a suitable electric motor is a key part of that job.
Electric motors power numerous industrial and commercial applications and support many functions, like powering machine compressors, pumps and tools.
However, not all electric motors are equal, and some suit specific applications better than others. Considering factors like speed, torque, duty cycle, load compatibility and maintenance requirements can help you select a compatible electric motor for your industrial facility.
Suitable torque is necessary for driving electric motor startup and acceleration speeds. Applications require varying amounts of force to start up and accelerate load to a specific rate in a set time. You’ll need to consider a piece of equipment’s torque requirements when choosing an electric motor to ensure it can operate without excessive strain.
Your electric motor’s output speed must be compatible with your needs. Some electric motors suit high-speed applications, while others are better for moderate- to low-speed processes. Your application might also require adjustable controls that accommodate specific increments. Understanding different motor designs and output capabilities is vital for selecting a suitable range for your applications:
Do you need an AC or DC motor? Selecting a suitable power source is vital for running your equipment effectively. DC motors allow for fine speed control since their rpm output is directly affected by the amount of voltage supplied. AC motors require a variable frequency drive for speed variation but offer greater efficiency. An AC motor tends to excel in low- to medium-speed operations, while DC performs better when higher speeds are needed.
Does the motor offer different speed ranges and control settings? Some applications require a definite operating speed, while others need adjustable rates. You can add a controller or drive to your DC or AC electric motor to manage torque and rotation. A controller can also regulate different application speeds, weights and loads.
The motor’s operating lifetime determines the life span of a product or tool. Consider how long you’ll need the motor to last and how much time and money you plan to put into maintaining it. Brushless DC and stepper motors have fewer wear components and tend to last longer, while brushed DC motors deteriorate more quickly.
The duty cycle determines how long the motor can run over production cycles. You might run applications continuously or over short periods. A longer run time will require a motor with a higher duty cycle to ensure you don’t lose power. You can use a smaller motor if you only need it intermittently and it will have enough rest time to return to ambient temperature.
The environmental temperature will affect a motor’s duty cycle, as the objective behind limiting run time is preventing overheating and any resulting damage.
The enclosure ranking depends on the conditions a motor must operate under. Consider the environment surrounding the installation — will the motor be exposed to moisture, dirt, debris or extreme heat? Neglecting to provide proper protection during installation is one of the most common causes of motor failure.
You’ll need suitable protection for your motor depending on your working conditions. For example, food and beverage industries might need stainless steel castings to protect machinery motors from spills, corrosion and wear.
Some electric motors can run on batteries or a power outlet. Depending on the facility, you’ll need to decide if you’ll connect a motor to the power grid, inverter or batteries. The voltage must be compatible with your motor if you use a wall socket or outlet. Smaller tools and lower power applications can use standard voltage, but you will likely need to draw more power for industrial motors.
Depending on your working conditions, a motor can require climate protection. Consider the temperature of the facility. Is it a hot or cold environment? Understanding the climate will help you select a motor with suitable materials or coverings.
Some applications require both backward and forward rotation. Some motors do not have multiple reverse or rotation capabilities, so be sure to choose a motor that can do everything your tasks require.
Electric motor capacity and size will impact operational efficiency. An electric motor must offer sufficient torque for your application’s load without generating more heat than the insulation present can handle.
A key factor in selecting motor size is whether you will be installing it permanently or in a system you plan to move often. You can get a bigger motor for equipment that will remain in one place, like a large lathe in an industrial building. Anything you need to transport often will call for careful consideration.
Whether noise is a concern will depend on where you’re using the motor. You might select a model geared for noise reduction if the installation will be in a public area like a hospital.
Motors have different maintenance requirements. Consider the motor type and if you can maintain and repair it yourself or need professional services. DC motors tend to be more challenging to maintain and require expert knowledge.
Having a way to collect data on motor performance can enhance your applications. With encoders or sensors, you can get feedback on how well the motor works and adjust speed and other settings for better performance. Data components offer diagnostic capabilities to indicate wear or damage so you can schedule maintenance, preventing breakdowns and downtime.
A motor’s operating costs depend on its life span, maintenance requirements and initial price. You’ll need to decide which model will offer the best value for your money or return on investment. Weighing potential costs is necessary before selecting an electric motor for your commercial facility.
Deciding on an electric motor for your industrial or commercial facility requires you to look at many complex factors. If you want to ensure you select the best model based on your unique circumstances, it’s best to consult a professional. Industrial Electrical Company specializes in various electric motor services, including installations, preventive maintenance and repairs.
Our certified technicians are experts in their craft. We’re also committed to delivering exceptional customer service, and we’ll answer your calls 24 hours a day. Whether you want us to evaluate trouble signs with an existing motor or assess your requirements and help you choose a new model, our team will make sure you have everything you need.
Contact us to learn more about our electric motor services.
Manufacturers are increasingly contemplating the question of energy efficiency. A greener and more environmentally friendly economy is one of the objectives of the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference which many States committed to. But it is above all in order to limit consumption and for savings that industry has been acquiring more energy-efficient equipment in recent years. According to a study by the European Commission, motors account for 65% of industrial energy consumption in Europe. Taking action when it comes to motors is therefore an important step in order to reduce CO2 emissions. The Commission even predicts that it is possible to improve the energy efficiency of European-made motors by 20 to 30% by 2020. The result would be 63 million tonnes less CO2 in the atmosphere and 135 billion kWh saved.
If you also want to integrate energy-efficient motors and get savings while contributing to the planet, you will first need to look at the energy efficiency standards for motors in your country or geographical area. But be careful, these standards do not apply to all motors, only to asynchronous AC electric motors.
International standards
In Europe
The EU has already adopted several directives aimed at reducing the energy consumption of motors, including the obligation for manufacturers to place energy-efficient motors on the market:
In the United States
In the United States, the standards defined by the American association NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) are in force. Since 2007, the minimum level required has been set at IE2.
The same classification applies to Australia and New Zealand.
Asia
In China, the Korean MEPS (Minimum Energy Performance Standard) standards have been applied to small and medium-sized three-phase asynchronous motors since 2002 (GB 18693). In 2012, MEPS standards were harmonized with IEC standards, moving from IE1 to IE2 and now to IE3.
Japan has harmonized its national regulations with IEC efficiency classes and included IE2 and IE3 electric motors in its Top Runner program in 2014. Introduced in 1999, the Top Runner program forces Japanese manufacturers to constantly offer new models on the market that are more energy efficient than previous generations, thus forcing emulation and energy innovation.
India has had a comparative efficiency label since 2009 and a national standard at an IE2 level since 2012.
Comments
Please Join Us to post.
0