December 30, 2013 - NovaTorque introduced 7.5hp and 10hp horsepower models of its PremiumPlus+ motors. The 7.5hp and 10hp versions, driven by variable frequency drives, have a motor-only rated point efficiency of over 94 percent, a full 3 point advantage over NEMA Premium induction motors. That advantage grows under partial load, as is the case in variable speed fan applications, with typical efficiency improvements ranging from 5% to 15%.
In a high duty cycle 10hp fan application in an average cost-of-power area, annual energy cost savings can exceed $300. NovaTorque Electronically Commutated Permanent Magnet motors reduce motor losses (wasted energy) by 30% to 50%. In typical variable speed fan applications that translates into a 5% to 15% energy savings when compared to NEMA Premium induction motors – and much greater savings when compared with the current installed base. Importantly, NovaTorque motors have been designed to compete on a first cost basis with induction motors, providing a rapid payback on the modest price premium. Importantly, due to its flux-focusing stator and rotor hub geometry, the NovaTorque motor produces this performance with an all-ferrite (versus rare earth) magnet design.
The cost of rare earth (neodymium) magnet material, the basis of most conventional permanent magnet motors, has risen erratically over the last several years. Further, supply of rare earth magnets is increasingly uncertain. The ability to use ferrite magnets allows NovaTorque to price its motors comparable to induction motors. This means OEMs and HVAC systems builders can now economically deliver superior permanent magnet motor efficiency with modest first cost impact and a rapid payback. NovaTorque PremiumPlus+ motors are packaged in standard NEMA frame sizes and mounting dimensions for easy substitution of AC induction motors.
NovaTorque PremiumPlus+ motors are compatible with readily available variable frequency drives (VFDs) from most leading manufacturers, including ABB, Yukawa, Mitsubishi, Siemens, Fuji, Hitachi, Toshiba, Delta, Danfoss, Schneider, Vacon and others.
