WEG extends the lead in energy efficiency: from IE4 to IE5
Process and Control Today, March 13, 2014WEG, a leading worldwide provider of drive technology, will present its new and highly energy-efficient permanent-magnet motors in the W22 series at Hannover this year (Hall 15, StandF11). With a rated efficiency of 96.6% and significantly lower losses than IE4 motors, they are among the first commercially available motors that conform to the recently formulated criteria for a potential IE5 energy efficiency class. With the launch of the W22 Super Premium family of induction motors in late 2012, WEG was among the first to offer a full range of motors conforming to the as-yet unratified IE4 standard. Another WEG innovation at the fair is the upgraded W22x series of explosion-proof motors, which are now available in IE4 versions on request as well as standard IE2 and IE3 efficiency classes.
For mechanical and plant engineering firms, it’s time for action because EU Motor Efficiency Regulation EC 640/2009 stipulates that starting in 2015 or 2017, IE3 induction motors, or alternatively IE2 motors driven by frequency converters, must be used in most industrial applications. As a force in the development of energy-efficient drive solutions, WEG aims to offer a full range of options. Users can comply with the regulations by opting for a high-performance W22 IE2 motor in combination with a frequency converter in the CFW 11 or CFW 11M series, or by opting for the direct approach of a W22 motor with an IE3 or IE4 rating. Highly energy-aware enterprises can now go even further and choose the new permanent-magnet motor, which has significantly lower losses than the Super Premium model and conforms to the specifications of the potential IE5 regulation.