ABB synchronous motor

Tests carried out on a 44 MW, 6-pole synchronous ABB motor have shown an efficiency 0.25% greater than the 98.8% stipulated, resulting in what is claimed to be the world record for electric motor efficiency. Motor efficiency is the ratio of mechanical power output divided by electric power input.

ABB’s synchronous motor is a special type of alternating current (AC) motor, measuring some 5 x 4 x 4 m in size for an output power of 44 MW. The average efficiency for this type of synchronous motor is claimed to be between 98.2 and 98.8%.

The motor’s efficiency was reached by optimising its electrical and mechanical features. If the motor is in continuous operation, the 0.25% efficiency improvement saves 1000 MWh energy per year, which is equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of 240 European households.

Typical uses of synchronous motors are for driving fans, pumps, rolling mills, mine hoists and compressors in such industries as air separation, oil and gas, chemical, marine, metals, mining, water, and pulp and paper. The motors have a robust design, with cool operation temperatures and low vibration.