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ROUND UP
DRN asynchronous motor series sets new benchmark for IE3 compliance in Africa
Stricter international regulations have meant that, as of the begin-
ning of last year, all two-, four- and six-pole asynchronous motors
with a power rating of 7,5 kW to 375 kW must meet the require-
ments of energy-efficiency class IE3 in the European Union (EU).
At the beginning of next year, IE3 will become applicable to 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 OEM in Africa carrying out
a project in the US, the IE3 requirement 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.
In terms of South Africa, SEW-EURODRIVE will offer the DRN
series as a complete new range. “It will set the standard. A customer
who buys a gearbox or drive from us will automatically have an
IE3-compliant motor,” 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, for example, which
means no additional effort on the part of our customers.” Another
feature is a global stator, which boosts both parts availability and
stockholding.
Commenting on the benefit of using energy-efficient motors
such as the new DRN series, Maleka points out that the total cost
of ownership of the equipment is reduced significantly over the
long term. “Not only do we inform our customers about these
benefits, but we also advise on application requirements. Our aim
is to offer a total solution, as opposed to simply being a component
supplier. Our expertise and experience stands us in good stead in
this regard, with SEW-EURODRIVE celebrating its 85th anniversary
this year,” Maleka stresses.
Enquiries:Visit
High speed motor design
Technology progress in high speed motor
design has led to ever-increasing rotating
speeds for electric machines, enabling them
to shrink in both volume and weight—ulti-
mately leading to high power density and
savings in energy consumption. But the
surge in speed incurs in a number of design
challenges, namely for mechanical rotors,
bearings, and for thermal stability due to high
frequency losses, among others.
According to Gerald Masson, business
development, new technologies and licens-
ing manager at Moving MagnetTechnologies
(MMT), high speed motor adoption has been
a trend in Europe in the automotive industry
and lately it has also been considered for
applications in several other areas as well.
“We specialise in designing brushless dc
motor technologies and we have developed
a specific technology for high speeds—mean-
ing speeds higher than 20 000 rpm,” he says.
“In fact, we have some prototypes running
at 100 000 to 200 000 rpm. Very, very high
speeds. For such velocities, we need some
very specific and fitting design, while keeping
it simple to manufacture.”
Enquiries: Email
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