CONCLUSION

Specify NEMA Premium motors for improved energy savings, reliability, and compatibility with adjustable-speed drives. Add adjustable-speed drives to variable torque loads for significant savings. Evaluate the cost of energy-efficient motors based on life-cycle cost, rather than first cost. Further reduce equipment-upgrade costs by taking advantage of rebates from utility companies and federal tax incentives.

Easy steps to energy efficiency also include:

• Evaluate motors based on life-cycle cost, rather than initial price.

• For continuous-duty applications, specify NEMA Premium efficient motors.

• Consider upgrading to PM-rotor motors for even greater efficiency.

• System-efficiency upgrades, such as the installation of adjustable-speed drives, are possible to maximize potential gains.

• Consider grooved high-efficiency V-belts.

• Use fan-system analysis tools from the DOE.

• If possible, specify three-phase motors.

REFERENCE

1. Information bulletin

   (2008, December). Available at www.fmmi.at/uploads/media/Europump-Dezember08.doc

The AC- and DC-motor product manager for Baldor Electric Co., John Malinowski is a senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), a member of the IEEE Industry Applications Society, and Baldor's representative to the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Premium, Motor Decisions Matter, Energy Star, and Standards for Energy Efficiency of Electric Motor Systems (SEEEM) programs. He has authored several articles on motor efficiency, maintenance, and application. George Weihrauch is a medium-AC-motor product manager for Baldor. His work includes application of specialized motors to meet specific needs for energy efficiency, longevity, and performance.