No Nonsense; What the new EU Legislation on Motors Means for You!
What the new EU Legislation on Motors Means for You! Changes are on the horizon as the European Union (EU) gears up to implement the fifth part of their MEPS legislation which aims to enhance the efficiency of motors. As such energy-efficient motors must cover the power range of 0.12 kW to 1000 kW, and variable speed drives must meet energy efficiency standards for the first time. This development holds significant implications for companies that heavily rely on motors. In this article, we will break down the key updates and explore how they will impact businesses to help you gain a better understanding of these EU legislation changes.
Stricter Energy Efficiency Requirements:
The new regulations introduce higher energy efficiency standards. Manufacturers will be required to adhere to stricter efficiency classes and minimum performance criteria for motors produced or imported into the UK. As engineers, we need to ensure compliance by evaluating our existing motors and considering the adoption of more efficient models. This has the added benefit of reduced operational costs and increased reliability/overall equipment efficiency.
What does the legislation apply to?
- Single phased motors 0.12 kW and above must meet IE2
- The legislation only applies to safe area motors rated between 75kW and 200kW and is inclusive of 2,4 and 6 poles.
- IE3 is still OK to use for motors below 75kW, above 200kW and all ‘Ex’ machines
- If you are replacing a 75 – 200kW Motor within a safe area, it must conform to the new legislation.
Benefits of Improved Efficiency
The adoption of more efficient motors will lead to significant energy savings, translating into lower electricity bills and improved operational efficiency. Secondly, by reducing energy consumption, companies can contribute to environmental sustainability efforts by lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Lastly, energy-efficient motors generate less heat, reducing the need for additional cooling and potentially prolonging the lifespan of associated equipment.
Considerations for Companies
Upgrading motors or procuring new ones may require upfront investments, and a thorough assessment of the economic feasibility is essential. Additionally, ensuring compliance with the updated regulations may necessitate coordination with suppliers and potential adjustments to existing processes. Therefore, careful planning and collaboration among engineering, procurement, and management teams will be crucial.
Q & A, The most Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use my existing Motor Stock?
- You can use your existing motor stock as long it was bought before 1/7/23 or meets the minimum requirements of EU MEPS, however this could be less energy efficient than the modern equivalent.
- Any motors placed into UK stock before 1/7/2023 can still be purchased and sold.
Can I still get my Motors Rewound?
- You can still get your existing motors rewound; however this will make them less energy efficient, and raise the running cost of your motors.
How does the legislation apply to second-hand Motors?
Second hand / rewound motors are not affected so can continue to be sold. Likely, they would have been placed on the market for the first time well before legislation came into force anyway. However, second hand motors are inefficient and therefor cost more to run. The graph below shows the efficiency of different product classes of motors.
Resources and Support
To aid companies in navigating the changes brought by the EU legislation, various resources and support systems are available. Industry associations, governmental organisations, motor manufacturers and suppliers such as Quantum can provide guidance on compliance and best practices. If you cannot afford to replace a new motor in accordance with the guidelines, Quantum hire out motors on a short- and long-term basis.
How do I Order a New High Efficiency Motor 24/7?
Our Motors online ordering systems makes it simple to order your new energy efficient motor. Accessing new motors from stock has been a problem in the UK for a long time. Quantum Controls has partnered with one of the UK’s leading logistics companies, to provide UK industry with instant access to ABB & WEG motors any time, day or night, for the first time in the UK. All motors have drawings and data sheets for your convenience.
Our simple 4 step guide makes it easier than Amazon to order your motor.
Quantum’s new motor solution ensures that you as an engineer can have a market leading, high efficiency ABB or WEG motor in transit within 30 minutes, any time day or night, 365 days a year.
Order your motor today . If you need more information about what type of Motor, you need call us on 0330 9000 247 where our team will be happy to provide you with support.