JJ Loughran adheres to the latest efficiency standards and regulations for electric motors and variable speed drives. The ever more prominent approach to efficiency is driving electric motor and variable speed drive companies to putting more emphasis on providing products that go above and beyond in terms of efficiency, to ensure energy can be preserved and less impact is had on the planet. As of July 2023, the legislation will expand to ensure that electric motors align with the latest efficiency standards, making then more environmentally friendly.
JJ Loughran understands the implications of these regulatory changes for machine builders and equipment manufacturers.
EU Eco-design Regulation
“Commission Regulation EU 2019/1781 setting new requirements for electric motors and variable speed drives”.
EU member countries have agreed about the new and more demanding requirements in the new regulation EU 2019/1781 repealing and replacing Regulation 640/2009. The implementation will be done in two steps on 1st of July 2021 and 1st of July 2023.
Over the years, the emphasis on efficiency improvement in electric motors has become a more vocal point for companies, to keep up with the changing regulations.
New Regulations for Electric Motors
Step 1: Starting 01.07.2021
The regulation will cover 3-phase single-speed motors 50 Hz, 60 Hz, 50/60 Hz rated for direct-onlineoperation with continuous type defined as S1, S3 ≥ 80% and S6 ≥ 80%, motors for potentially explosive atmospheres with protection types of Ex t, Ex ec, Ex d and Ex de, brake motors with external brake and also Totally Enclosed, Air Over (TEAO) motors. It is important to note that the option of IE2 + VSD ceases.
Step 2: Starting 01.07.2023
(Additions to Step 1) IE4 for 3-phase will become mandatory for 2-6 poles single speed motors between 75-200 kW. The coverage is also extended to Ex eb motors and 1-phase motors that must be of IE2.
New Regulations for Variable Speed Drives
Step 1: Starting 01.07.2021
The regulation will cover 3-phase standard drives (diode rectifier) from 0.12 kW ≤ Pn ≤ 1,000 kW. For LV AC drives, the following exclusions from the directive apply: regenerative drives, low-harmonic drives (THD < 10%), multiple AC-output drives and 1-phase drives. A drive cabinet with already conformity assessed drives module does not need to be assessed again. Several drive types are also excluded from the directive: MV drives, DC drives and traction drives.
At JJ Loughran, we understand that buyers of electric motors, especially OEM manufacturers, need to prepare for upcoming requirements in the following ways:
- Assessing our product range: We recommend taking stock of our products and designs to identify which ones contain motors subject to the new regulations. By prioritizing based on the best-selling products and the potential impact of motor changes, we can ensure a smooth transition.
- Customer engagement: We emphasize the importance of engaging with our customers early on to align expectations. Some customers may take this opportunity to improve energy efficiency beyond the minimum requirements, while others may prefer limited design modifications. By understanding their preferences, we can adjust framework agreements and plan motor purchases accordingly.
- Integrating Eco-design requirements: We can assist in identifying instances where replacing motors with more energy-efficient variants is relevant. It’s important to note that different efficiency classes, such as IE4 motors compared to IE3 motors, have varying characteristics. This may require adapting connected equipment, such as distribution boards and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), to ensure seamless integration.
- Expert advice from JJ Loughran: If our customers have any doubts or questions regarding the impact of the new Ecodesign requirements on their product designs, framework agreements, inventory needs, or any related concerns, we encourage them to reach out to us. With our comprehensive knowledge of the new regulations, we can provide tailored advice based on their specific needs.
If you would like to speak to one of our engineers for more information on the new energy efficiency regulations, please don’t hesitate to contact us at +4428 867 62295, where we will be more than happy to help.
