8 Energy-Efficiency Improvement Opportunities In Electric Motors

Energy Saving Opportunities

When considering energy-efficiency improvements to a facility’s motor systems, a systems approach incorporating pumps, compressors, and fans must be used in order to attain optimal savings and performance.
In the following, considerations with respect to energy use and energy saving opportunities for a motor system are presented and in some cases illustrated by case studies. Pumping, fan and compressed air systems are discussed in addition to the electric motors.
Potential energy-efficiency improvements:

1. Motor management plan
2. Maintenance program
3. Using of energy-efficient motors
4. Rewinding of motors
5. Proper motor sizing
6. Using Adjustable speed drives (ASDs)
7. Power factor correction
8. Minimizing voltage unbalances

1. Motor management plan

A motor management plan is an essential part of a plant’s energy management strategy. Having a motor management plan in place can help companies realize long-term motor system energy savings and will ensure that motor failures are handled in a quick and cost effective manner.

The Motor Decisions MatterSM Campaign suggests the following key elements for a sound motor management plan (CEE, 2007):

1. Creation of a motor survey and tracking program.
2. Development of guidelines for proactive repair/replace decisions.
3. Preparation for motor failure by creating a spares inventory.
4. Development of a purchasing specification.
5. Development of a repair specification.
6. Development and implementation of a predictive and preventive maintenance program.\

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