Energy-efficient explosion-proof motors

Special applications – including explosion-proof motors – are currently exempt from the motor efficiency regulations and this series, which combines reliable explosion protection with maximum efficiency, is now one of the most energy efficient series available on the market.

According to Detlef Wortmann, business development manager at WEG energy-intensive industries such as chemical, oil/gas or mining, where very large facilities with, in some cases, thousands of motors often operating 24/7, energy efficiency is a decisive factor for reducing operating costs and CO2 emissions. “Energy costs for electric motors account for 95 to 97% of total life-cycle costs, depending on the application,” he said. “ This means that investments in energy-efficient drives usually have a very short return on investment. Thanks to the low operating costs, companies with explosion-proof motors in the W22Xd series can reduce their costs by 20 to 40% compared to conventional approaches.”

To make this energy-saving drive solution available for hazardous areas, WEG utilised the housing design of the W22 standard induction motors. The W22Xd housing design features a cooling system with an aerodynamic concept that reduces noise levels and improves heat dissipation. The housing, with integrated mounting feet, allows the explosion-proof motors to be deployed in even the demanding applications while also minimising vibration and noise emissions.

Motors in the W22Xd series are designed to withstand the harsh ambient conditions in explosion hazard areas. Standard integrated thermistors additionally protect the motor winding in the event of overload and heaters in the interior prevent condensation, helping increase the service life of the winding insulation, prolonging the lifetime of the motor.