As the new Ecodesign Directive comes into force throughout Europe in the summer of 2021, the energy efficiency of standard asynchronous motors, in particular those designed for continuous operation, will have to improve. To make the transition a success, Lenze has started by compiling easy-to-understand basic information as well as a complete checklist for original equipment manufacturers and machine operators. The Source: Lenzespecialist in drive and automation technology is also launching a new motor platform with the m500 series.

The m500 motor platform is designed to be future-proof as a drive solution that can be used worldwide and which is primarily intended to be combined with Lenze gearboxes of the g500 family and the i500 inverter series. Lenze will be making a software tool available as of this summer to streamline the switch to the new generation of motors.

The modular three-phase AC motors include IE2 high-efficiency motors (m550-H) covering the power range 0.12 to 0.55 kW, and IE3 premium-efficiency machines (m550-P) covering the power range 0.75 to 22 kW. Connections can be made via a terminal box or plug connectors for fast commissioning.

From 1 July, 2021, the Ecodesign Directive will impose new minimum efficiency levels for electric motors, as well as reducing the number of exceptions. Electric motors used in machines sold in Europe will have to meet the higher efficiency requirements.

The directive will apply to induction motors without carbon brushes, commutators, slip-ring or electric rotor connections, designed for operation at a sinusoidal voltage, that also:

• Have two, four, six or eight poles;
• Have a rated frequency of 50 Hz or 60 Hz, or 50/60 Hz;
• Have a rated voltage of 50 V to 1 kV;
• Have a nominal output power ranging of 0.12 kW to 1 MW;
• Are designed for continuous operation; and
• Are intended for operation on the public power grid.

Lenze has compiled a dossier of information on the directive and a checklist for OEMs and machine operators. Its Ecodesign webpage includes information such as fact sheets on efficiency requirements for different countries, and FAQs on the directive.