DRIVES & CONTROLS
Power delivered
WEG claims it has broken through the current level barrier and set new standards : IE6 and beyond
Paul Moore reviews some developments in the drives and motors space from MINExpo plus homes in on some specific innovations in the sector
The urgency to transition to more sustainable energy sources is increasingly evident , and the drives and motors industry plays a crucial role in this process . Brazilheadquartered WEG , a global leader in electrical technologies and automation , says it is at the forefront of this movement with the launch of what it says the most efficient industrial motor ever created . Facing the challenge of balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility , the company presents a forwardlooking solution “ that redefines standards of efficiency and sustainability .”
The highest established efficiency level , IE5 , is an evolution with 20 % lower losses than its predecessor , IE4 . With the W23 Sync + Ultra , WEG claims it has broken through the current level barrier and set new standards : IE6 and beyond , meeting 20 % lower losses than IE5 . In addition to setting a new performance standard for the industry , it says this line represents a significant step towards a more sustainable industrial operation .
Added to its unparalleled energy efficiency , the W23 Sync + Ultra contributes significantly to avoiding carbon emissions and driving the energy transition . “ By raising the efficiency standard and minimising energy waste , this solution represents a decisive step towards a more conscious and sustainable operation . With this initiative , WEG reaffirms its commitment to environmental protection and building a positive legacy for future generations .”
With the launch of the W23 Sync + Ultra , not only are new efficiency standards set in the industry , but WEG argues that it also inspires other organisations “ to follow its example and commit to building a more sustainable and prosperous future for all .”
Strategic move by WEG in Türkiye
In a major move in southeast Europe , WEG has agreed to acquire Volt Electric Motors , a Turkish manufacturer of industrial and commercial electric motors , and a subsidiary of the Saya Group , for US $ 88 million . Founded in 1987 , Volt is a vertically integrated company with a production capacity of a million motors per year . The company has a strong presence in the Turkish market , with mining a major focus , but also exports to several countries , mainly in Europe , the Middle East , and Central Asia .
With the agreement , WEG will assume full control of Volt , which has a 27,000 m 2 ( 290,000 ft 2 ) factory dedicated to the design and manufacturing of industrial and commercial electric motors , with output power up to 450 kW . WEG will also incorporate a team of 690 employees .
According to Rodrigo Fumo , Managing Director of Industrial Motors at WEG , the acquisition aligns with WEG ’ s growth strategy for the industrial and commercial motors business , as it will expand its presence and product offerings in
highly competitive and strategic markets . “ Volt has a strong presence in Türkiye , where we started our own operation in 2022 , in addition to proximity to regions with potential demand for our products and services , such as Eastern Europe , the Middle East , Central Asia , and North Africa ”, he states .
Moreover , Volt ’ s location in Izmir , Türkiye , will facilitate WEG ’ s access to these markets , both by land and sea . “ Izmir has two large ports that will enable significantly faster transit times for any WEG operation in this region , which represents an important logistical advantage ", explains Fumo .
Customised solution for Serra Azul mine
WEG also says it is ready to provide innovative , high-quality solutions to ensure the efficiency and reliability of mining operations . A recent example is a partnership with ArcelorMittal , which was looking to expand its ore processing capacity at the Serra Azul mining company in Brazil . To meet the customer ’ s specific needs , WEG , in collaboration with Metso , the original equipment manufacturer , developed a customised solution .
This solution includes M-line motors , with a 500 frame , 2,000 kW power , 4 kV and 4 poles . These motors power large rollers for comminution of ores . The crusher operates by compressing the material between the rotating rollers , generating intense pressure that transforms the feed material into the desired grain size . To support these efforts , the bearings have been carefully designed to ensure strength and durability even under high axial loads of up to 33.2 kN in both directions .
“ The robustness of WEG motors and strengthened bearings minimise the occurrence of failures , ensuring greater reliability and availability of the crushers . Reduced maintenance downtime means more operating time and a greater volume of ore processed , boosting the mining company ' s productivity . In addition , WEG equipment guarantees more efficient crusher operation , optimising energy efficiency and reducing operating costs .”
The supplied motors for ArcelorMittal ' s crushers consolidates the strategic partnership between WEG and Metso . WEG says its expertise in developing customised , high-performance solutions makes it an important player in meeting this complex market .
Bosch Rexroth showcases latest innovations at MINExpo 2024
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18 International Mining | NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2024