SynRM and VSD packages from ABB
Company offering IE4 motor efficiency and advanced control technology in a single package
ACCORDING to ABB, the balancing of energy-efficiency improvements with process control requirements is eliminated with their synchronous reluctance motor (SynRM) and variable-speed drive (VSD) packages.
An innovative synchronous reluctance motor that combines all of the energy-saving benefits of permanent magnet technology together with the service-friendliness of an induction motor platform, paired with an ABB industrial drive and advanced software, offers a complete package for end-users and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
ABB’s motor has no rotor windings in the traditional sense. The rotor, therefore, suffers virtually no power losses and its temperature remains lower than conventional rotors, delivering losses typically 40% less than its induction motor counterpart.
The motor is available in two distinct packages: the first has the same physical size as a standard IE induction motor but operates at IE4 efficiency levels; the second is called ‘High Output’ (HO), which is typically two frame sizes smaller for the same equivalent power compared with induction motors while still maintaining IE3 energy efficiency levels.
These two variants help achieve better power density and higher energy efficiency. In addition, lower temperatures mean longer bearing life and longer re-greasing intervals, which extends the time between maintenance interventions. Compared with permanent magnet motors, the SynRM is lighter, less expensive and easier to repair, yet gives the same performance levels.
A variable-speed drive (VSD) is required to control ABB’s SynRM motor and come in variants targeted at certain industry sectors: the drive for water and waste-water applications, the ACQ810, is available in 0.37 to 500kW power ratings; the ABB industrial drive is the ACS880 with rated power from 0.55 to 2,800kW; and the ABB machinery drive is the ACS850 with a power range from 0.37 to 560kW.
According to ABB, these VSDs have a range of in-built features designed to deliver accurate and reliable process control, such as: direct torque control, designed for highly accurate motor torque and speed; safe torque-off, to allow for reliable isolation for maintenance; built-in safety features to comply with the 2006/42/EC Machinery Directive; and advanced programming tools for fine-tuning the drive to meet specific process requirements.
A SynRM and VSD package can be specified by an ABB engineer or one of the company’s authorized providers across the UK, to ensure the right package is installed and commissioned according to exact end-use requirements and duty cycles.
