Assessment and optimization of induction electric motors aiming energy efficiency in industrial applications

A methodology for assessment and optimization of induction electric motors, devised to achieve energy conservation, is described. This methodology works by means of replacing high-efficiency motors for older ones. The electric motor is an end-use equipment which is strongly present in industry, being subject to replacements that may have satisfactory results when the diagnosis is carried out in a consistent way, in accordance to coherent validation procedures. The adopted motor replacement methodology included an initial study, by means of measurements of electrical parameters. Afterwards, by using a particular simulation software, operating conditions of the electric motor and the expected savings accruing from the use of high-efficiency motors were estimated. When necessary, the motor resizing analysis provides the best rated power for the drive. The motor substitutions carried out in this motor drives efficiency improvement program resulted in yearly savings amounting to 720 MWh.