Electricity + Control September 2016

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ROUND UP
New benchmark for IE3 energy-efficiency compliance in Africa
Energy efficiency and sustainability are becoming more and more
important in the development and re-engineering of industry prod-
ucts, especially due to stricter legal requirements. On 1 January
2015, the second stage of Regulation 640/2009 came into effect,
stipulating increased energy efficiency in asynchronous ac motors.
This meant that all two-, four- and six-pole asynchronous motors
with a power rating of 7,5 kW to 375 kW introduced into the Euro-
pean Union, Switzerland andTurkey must meet the requirements
of energy-efficiency class IE3. Less energy-efficient asynchronous
motors are no longer permitted for this power range, with a few
exceptions. On 1 January 2017, the IE3 requirement will come into
effect for all asynchronous motors with a power rating of 0,75 kW
to 375 kW.
While South Africa does not face the same regulatory pressure
as the EU, SEW-EURODRIVE has decided to raise the benchmark
locally by launching its new DRN series as its standard range of
electric motors. “We also have to take into account our customers
across our borders. For example, if we supply an African OEM
carrying out an overseas project from SouthAfrica, the IE3 require-
ment has to be met.We not only supply the local market, but have
to take our export obligations into account as well,” National Sales
Manager Norman Maleka comments. “The approach we have
adopted with our customers is to highlight the energy-efficiency
component.”
The challenge for SEW-EURODRIVE was to develop an IE3 motor
that can replace an IE2 motor without any problems, high cost or
effort.This meant reducing energy losses while retaining the same
motor frame size. The solution was the DRN series, which is as
small, light and compact as the comparable DRE series.The weight
and dimensions of the IE3 motors have only changed marginally,
while the entire brake portfolio, unique built-in encoders and all
additional features are all still available.The new IE3 motors comply
with all global design specifications and standards.
“In South Africa, we will basically bring the DRN series in as a
complete range, and not present the option of the earlier range. It
will be a standard. If a customer purchases our gearmotor, the mo-
tor itself will be IE3 compliant.This means we will set the benchmark
once again,” Maleka explains.
“What is equally important is the fact that the DRN series is
downward compatible with our previous motors, regardless of
the energy class. It fits right onto our gearboxes, which means no
additional effort on the part of our customers.” Another feature
providing extra benefits for customers is the development of a
global stator. “The new IE3 series will be beneficial to us from a
stockholding point of view. It also fulfils our mandate of bringing
in the latest, most energy-efficient products into the local market.
We are looking forward to seeing how the local market will receive
the new range.”
Enquiries:Visit
Motor protection relay brand now with IEC 61850
The Reyrolle Rho-C type 7SR17 Motor Protection Relay provides comprehensive,
configurable motor protection with enhanced functionality and performance through
a user friendly interface.There is no limitation to the size of 3-phase induction motor
that the Rho-C can be applied.
Current and optional voltage inputs may be supplied with this unit which provides
for a comprehensive, integrated protection and metering solution. Prevailing tough
economic conditions can cause mines to operate modern motors close to thermal
limitations.
The Rho-C thermal algorithm has therefore been optimised to match the thermal
overload characteristics of all types of motors and cooling systems. In addition, IEC
61850 has recently been added to the suite of supported protocols for integration into
modern substation automation systems.
Enquiries: Marcel Kelly.Tel. +27 (0) 11 457 1600
or email
DRIVES, MOTORS + SWITCHGEAR
The new DRN series will be launched officially at Electra
Mining Africa 2016 from 12 to 16 September 2016, at the SEW-
EURODRIVE stand in Hall 6 J20. The companywill unveil a range
of new products under its ‘The Future Starts Now’ campaign.
SEW-EURODRIVE
National Sales Manager,
Norman Maleka.
Electricity+Control September ‘16 20