Zest WEG phased in IE4 super-premium efficiency motors in its WEG W22 range last month at no premium on the IE3 units. According to Fanie Steyn, electric motors manager, 2021 will see local energy prices rising above R1/kWh for the first time. This makes it the ideal time for the introduction of WEG IE4-rated motors, which are available in the size range between 37kW and 375kW.
“Unlike many countries around the world, South Africa has not regulated the use of energy efficient motors at the level of IE2 or IE3,” says Fanie. “Nonetheless, we have taken the proactive step of making the IE4 level of efficiency available to customers.”
Specified under the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 60034-30-1:2014 standard, IE1 refers to standard efficiency and IE2 to high efficiency; the IE3 and IE4 ratings are for premium efficiency and super-premium efficiency motors respectively.
“The efficiency of 96.3% on an IE4-rated 110kW motor, when compared with 94.1% on an IE1-rated motor, can save users hundreds of thousands of rand in energy costs over a 10 year period,” Fanie maintains. “Not only will these IE4 motors be more cost effective to run, but they have been designed with a number of new features that bring considerable benefits.”
Efficiency is kept constant
He points out that WEG IE4 super-premium efficiency motors meet IEC efficiency levels when running on 50 to 100% of load; efficiency is kept constant, which saves energy and ensures minimal losses through various loading points. The innovative frame design also allows maximum heat dissipation.
“Motor frame design plays a crucial role in thermal performance, as it is responsible for the outward transfer of heat generated inside the motor,” explains Fanie. “Running cooler means that our motors have increased life spans, allowing Zest WEG to offer a five year guarantee on our WEG W22 electric motor range.”
The motors’ increased mechanical rigidity – achieved by integrating the front and rear feet sides – affords easier installation, higher mechanical stiffness and improved distribution of the mechanical thrust imposed by the load.
First of its kind
“As a first of its kind, our flexible terminal box mounting means reduced inventory and quicker modification,” he adds. “The terminal box can be rotated in 90° increments to facilitate supply cable connection orientated to the front, rear, top or either side of the motor.”
In addition to the benefits brought by WEG super premium efficiency motors, a substantial increase in energy savings can be reliably achieved using WEG Variable Speed Drives (VSDs), which comply with the European Extended Product standard EN50598. This ensures the system efficiency of the motor and VSD combination. As an additional feature, WEG VSDs have energy savings settings which can be user activated, achieving an automatic saving under any reduced load conditions.
For more information, please visit www.zestweg.com
