October 2020

Focus on: Drives, Motors & Controls Energy, the Environment & Water when properly sized, provides an energy cost reduction of up to 80% and average water savings of 22%. While the current regulation states that IE2 motors must be used with a VSD, this has been difficult to enforce across industry. This explains why the regulations are becoming stricter. As of July 1, 2021, three phase motors will need to meet IE3 standards, regardless of any VSD additions. The 2021 changes are also holding VSDs to higher standards, assigning this product group IE ratings too. They will be expected to meet an IE2 standard, although an IE2 drive does not represent the equivalent efficiency of an IE2 motor — these are separate rating systems. Make full use of VSDs Installing a VSD is one thing, using it to its full potential is another. Many VSDs are packed with useful features that plant managers don’t know exist. Pump applications are a good example. Fluid handling can be turbulent, between leakages and low fluid levels, there’s a lot that can go wrong. Built-in control enables more effective use of motors based on production demands and fluid availability. Automatic broken pipe detection in the VSD can identify fluid leakage zones and adjusts motor performance accordingly. Additionally, dry pump detection means if fluid runs out, the motor is automatically deactivated and a dry pump alert is issued. In both cases, the motor reduces its energy consumption when less energy is required to handle available resources. If using multiple motors in the pump application, jockey pump control can also optimise the use of different sized motors. It may be that demand requires just a small motor to be in use, or a combination of a small and large motor. Pump Genius gives increased flexibility to use the optimal sized motor for a given flow rate. VSDs can even perform automatic cleaning of the motor impeller, to ensure deragging is carried out consistently. This keeps the motor in optimal condition which has positive effects on energy efficiency. If you’re not happy to pay 30 times the motor price in energy bills over a decade, it’s time to make some of these changes. They won’t happen overnight, but a strategic plan that targets your most inefficient pain points will result in significant energy efficiency benefits.