Nord Drivesystems Adds 112 Frame Size to IE5+ Synchronous Motor Line

Electric motors remain one of the largest energy consumers in industrial systems, especially in applications that run continuously, such as conveyors, pumps, and material handling equipment. Improving motor efficiency can have a measurable impact on operating costs, especially in facilities where motors run around the clock.

Nord Drivesystems recently expanded its IE5+ synchronous motor series with the addition of a new 112 frame size, thereby extending the line's power capability to 15 hp. The addition expands the usable range of Nord’s permanent magnet synchronous motors while maintaining the high efficiency and torque characteristics that define the IE5+ family.

Nord’s IE5+ permanent magnet synchronous motors now include a 112 frame size, extending the power range up to 15 hp. Image used courtesy of Nord Drivesystems

Extending the Power Range of IE5+ Motors

The new SK 112 motor size expands the IE5+ lineup beyond the existing 71- and 90-frame sizes. With the new addition, the series now covers applications ranging from 0.5 hp to 15 hp, with torque ratings reaching 387 lb-in.

These motors use permanent magnet synchronous motor technology. Instead of relying on electrical excitation to generate the magnetic field, the rotor contains high-strength permanent magnets. Eliminating the need for external excitation reduces energy losses and allows the motor to operate with efficiencies approaching 95 percent.

For many applications, that efficiency advantage becomes most noticeable during continuous operation. Motors used in intralogistics systems, distribution centers, and automated handling equipment often run for long periods, which makes even small efficiency improvements meaningful over time.

Consistent Torque Across a Wide Speed Range

One thing that sets Nord's IE5+ synchronous motors apart from more conventional designs is their ability to maintain efficiency across a wide speed range, even at partial load or lower speeds. In practice, that means the same motor can often handle several operating conditions without requiring multiple drive variants.

Using fewer motor types can simplify operation for many facilities. Manufacturing, logistics, spare-parts inventory, and maintenance planning all become easier to manage when there are fewer variants in the system. That flexibility can also lower overall operating costs. Instead of maintaining a large mix of motors for different speeds or torque requirements, operators can often cover several applications with a smaller set of drive configurations.

Nord’s IE5+ synchronous motor and drive system demonstration highlighting high-efficiency motor operation and integration with electronic control components. Image used courtesy of Nord Drivesystems

Design Focus on Efficiency and Material Use

Efficiency improvements are not limited to electrical performance. Nord’s IE5+ motors also incorporate design features intended to reduce material usage.

The motors use an 8-pole interior permanent magnet design, reducing the number of active motor components. This approach lowers the amount of sheet metal and magnetic material required while still maintaining high power density. The stator can also be manufactured with single-tooth winding, reducing the amount of copper needed in the winding head.

Combined with the high efficiency of the permanent magnet design, these features contribute to lower energy consumption and reduced CO₂ emissions over the motor's operating life.

Ventilated and Non-Ventilated IE5+ Motors

Nord offers both ventilated (TEFC) and non-ventilated (TENV) versions of the IE5+ motors, depending on the intended environment. Ventilated TEFC models are available in all three frame sizes and use a finned housing to improve heat dissipation. These motors are commonly used in intralogistics systems where drives operate continuously.

For hygienic environments such as food and beverage production, smooth-body TENV versions are available in frame sizes 71 and 90. These motors feature corrosion-resistant surfaces that are easier to clean and can be supplied with IP69K protection, allowing them to withstand high-pressure washdowns.

Nord’s IE5+ synchronous motors with a non-ventilated, hygienic design. Image used courtesy of Nord Drivesystems

Modular Integration With Nord Drivesystems

The motors are designed to integrate with Nord’s broader drive portfolio. IE5+ synchronous motors are compatible with the company’s gear units and electronic drive controls, allowing drive systems to be configured for specific applications.

The motors ship with an incremental encoder as standard. Depending on the application, users can also add options such as a mechanical brake, different encoder types, motor connectors, or various flange-mounting configurations for attaching gear units or installing the motor directly.

The new 112 frame size pushes the IE5+ motor line into a higher-power range. Even with the added output, the motors still follow the same design approach that runs through the series. They focus on high efficiency, steady torque across a wide speed range, and easy integration with Nord's modular drive systems.