2008-11-25 - November 11, 2008 – The IEC has introduced two new standards relating to energy efficient motors. IEC/EN 60034-2-1 specifies new rules concerning efficiency testing methods; IEC 60034-30 defines new efficiency classes for motors which, in contrast to the old efficiency classes in Europe, cover almost all motors.
IEC/EN 60034-2-1: September 2007 specifies rules concerning the methods to be used for determining losses and efficiency. The methods defined in the new standard determine efficiency values more accurately. The resulting efficiency values differ from those obtained under the previous IEC testing standard, IEC 60034-2: 1996. It must be noted that efficiency values are only comparable if they are measured using the same method. ABB has announced that it will utilize the new methods defined in IEC 60034-2-1: 2007 when preparing its catalogues.
IEC 60034-30: September 2008 defines three IE (International Efficiency) efficiency classes for single-speed, three-phase, cage induction motors.
- IE1 = Standard efficiency (efficiency levels roughly equivalent to the existing EFF2 in Europe)
- IE2 = High efficiency (efficiency levels roughly equivalent to the existing EFF1 in Europe and identical to EPAct in the USA for 60 Hz)
- IE3 = Premium efficiency (new efficiency class in Europe and identical to "NEMA Premium" in the USA for 60Hz)
The efficiency levels defined in IEC 60034-30 are based on the test methods specified in IEC 60034-2-1: 2007.
IEC 60034-30 covers almost all industrial motors (standard, hazardous area, marine, brake etc.):
- Single-speed, three-phase, 50 Hz and 60 Hz
- 2-, 4- or 6-pole
- Rated output from 0.75 to 375 kW
- Rated voltage UN up to 1000 V
- Rated on the basis of either duty type S1 (continuous duty) or S3 (intermittent periodic duty) with a rated cyclic duration factor of 80% or higher
- Capable of operating direct online
The following motors are excluded from IEC 60034-30:
- Motors made solely for converter operation in accordance with IEC 60034-25
- Motors completely integrated into a machine (e.g. pump, fan or compressor) that cannot be tested separately from the machine
IEC 60034-30 stipulates that both the efficiency class and efficiency value have to be shown on the motor rating plate and in the product documentation.
Note: IEC standard 60034-30:2008 defines the new efficiency classes but does not include rules on their implementation. This is subject to a European Commission decision in the EU countries, and to national legislation outside the EU. ABB is closely monitoring the drafting of this legislation and is taking steps to ensure its products will comply with the new requirements when they enter into force.
For more information please contact:
ABB Unit:
Contact Person: Eila Nyman
Tel: +358 (0)50 33 42769
Fax: +358 (0)10 22 47372
eila.nyman@fi.abb.com
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