Nord Expands IE5+ Permanent Magnet Motor Line With Larger Frame

Nord Drivesystems has expanded its IE5+ permanent magnet motor lineup with a new 112 frame size, extending high-efficiency drive technology to higher-power applications. The synchronous motor delivers up to 15 hp and 387 lb-in of torque while maintaining efficiency levels near 95%. Using permanent magnet technology eliminates excitation losses common in induction motors, enabling consistent efficiency even at reduced loads or speeds for conveyor systems and other industrial drive applications.

Two versions of the latest SK permanent magnet motor. Image used courtesy of Nord

High-Efficiency Permanent Motors

An electric motor uses a magnetic field to transmit electrical energy into rotary energy. A typical induction motor uses a small amount of electricity to generate a magnetic field within the motor. This excitation energy reduces the motor's overall efficiency because it does not increase output power; it merely facilitates motion. Nord has developed an IE5+ motor that uses permanent magnets, so excitation energy is not required, and the rated efficiency is up to 95%. Recently, Nord announced the release of a 112-frame motor with power ratings up to 15 Hp and 387 lb-in, utilizing permanent magnet technology from the SK product line, resulting in a high-efficiency, high-torque motor.

Video of the IE5+ motor and how it is more efficient. Video used courtesy of Automation World

SK 112 Synchronous Motor

The SK line of AC Synchronous motors uses a permanent magnet instead of an electromagnet to provide rotary motion at the output shaft. Permanent magnet motors are often smaller in frame size and more compact because they lack the copper windings required to generate the magnetic field. With an electromagnet motor, the magnetic field can be adjusted in strength and moved around the stator, resulting in higher torque, larger frame sizes, and variable speed control. The latest release of the SK line is the 112 frame size, which delivers up to 15 hp and up to 387 lb-in. All SK motors can be configured with ventilated fins for improved heat dissipation, smooth bodies, or an IP69K protection class for harsh environments such as the food and beverage industries.

Additional options include absolute or magnetic encoders, various flange mountings, and compatible gear units. Each SK model also comes equipped with a standard incremental encoder.

A large facility with many powered conveyors that would typically use AC synchronous motors. Image used courtesy of Unsplash

Innovating Efficiency

In today’s energy-conservative facilities, engineers are trying to save on energy wherever they can. Nord has provided customers with a motion solution that exceeds the industry standard for electric motor efficiency. Nord can offer motors with an efficiency rating of up to 95% due to the internal 8-pole permanent magnet synchronous motor design. This increased efficiency doesn’t degrade as the load or speed is reduced; it stays the same regardless. By using these highly efficient motors across various applications, designers and engineers can help reduce a factory's overall carbon footprint.

While the SK line of electric motors may not fit every application, with the latest 112-frame size release, Nord will be able to supply highly efficient motors to more applications across multiple industries.