Motors and generators from all manufacturers are subject to aging. Factors such as network harmonics, tough starting conditions, corrosive atmospheres, short circuits, and vibrations all have a negative impact. Eventually the motor or generator needs to be replaced in order to secure safe operation and reduce the risk of breakdown. Equipment owners often request that the foundation, terminal box and other interfaces are implemented so as to minimize site work. ABB’s expertise in these areas makes it the optimum partner for owners of motors and generators who are planning to upgrade their equipment.
Motor and generator upgrades
ABB can upgrade older motors and generators with completely new designs. A unit with the same power as the existing equipment can often be fitted in a smaller frame size, leaving space for an intermediate base. In this way the foundation can be kept as it is. Interfaces such as the main terminal box and auxiliary boxes are designed so that as much of the older installation as possible can be re-used. We undertake this kind of work for older motors and generators originally supplied both by ABB and by other manufacturers.
In some special cases ABB may also be able to provide an identical motor or generator as a direct replacement for the original unit.
Component upgrades
Components are subject to aging. Component upgrades will extend the lifetime of the motor or generator. ABB offers a turnkey service for component upgrades, ensuring that the latest technology is used to deliver improved motor or generator performance in terms of efficiency, reliability and safety.