Motors are the driving force behind a lot of the equipment in commercial and industrial facilities. Optimize your operations using these low-cost strategies to improve the efficiency and performance of your motors.
Minimize voltage unbalance
Voltage unbalance can be detrimental to motor performance. It occurs when the voltages in the three phases of a three-phase motor are not equal. An unbalanced system — anything outside 1% — increases distribution system losses and reduces motor efficiency. You can minimize voltage unbalances by balancing any single-phase loads equally among all three phases or segregating any single-phase loads that disturb the load balance.
Maintain power quality
The quality of input power affects motor performance considerably. Fluctuations in voltage and frequency much larger than standard values can negatively impact motor performance. Keep motor voltages as close to the nameplate value as possible. Because voltage decreases with distance from the step-down transformer, all voltage measurements should be taken at the terminal box.
Eliminate distribution losses
Check for bad connections, poor grounding and shorts to ground regularly, as well as thrown breakers. These problems are common sources of energy loss and may reduce motor reliability. Qualified technicians using monitoring equipment and infrared cameras can identify these types of problems in your facility.
Preventative maintenance pays off
Never underestimate the value of preventative maintenance. Regular inspections, cleaning and appropriate adjustments will help keep motors running at peak efficiency.
By combining low-cost operational strategies with preventative maintenance measures, you can improve motor performance and save money without a big financial investment.