Electric motors, taken together, make up the single largest end-use of electricity in the United States. In the U.S. manufacturing sector, electric motors used for machine drives such as pumps, conveyors, compressors, fans, mixers, grinders, and other materials-handling or processing equipment account for about 54% of industrial electricity consumption[1]. Additional energy is consumed in HVAC and refrigeration equipment. Electric motors provide efficient, reliable, and long-lasting service and most require comparatively little maintenance. However, despite these advantages, they can result in energy waste and excess energy costs if not properly specified and maintained.
Energy-efficient operation of industrial motor and drive-systems requires attention not just to individual pieces of equipment and components, but to the system as a whole. A “systems approach” takes into account how the individual components interact, thereby shifting the focus from individual components to total system performance.
Top Five Energy Efficiency Measures for Motors and Drives
- Assess motor and drive system operating conditions
- Establish a motor management program (repair/replace, purchasing, inventory & tracking motor life)
- Provide proper maintenance as specified by the manufacturer
- Select the right motor for different applications
- Use variable speed control for motors with variable demands
You can read related TIP SHEETS AND PUBLICATIONS to improve performance and save energy, accumulated over time by the DOE Advanced Manufacturing Office.
Learn more with the MOTOR SYSTEM INFO CARD, explore additional resources specific to Better Plants partners and connect with the motors-subject matter expert below.
[1] Improving Motor and Drive System Performance: A Sourcebook for Industry. Second Edition, February 2014.
