ABB Introduces Flameproof Low Voltage Motors for Use in Explosive Environment

Bengaluru, India – ABB India has introduced a new line of flameproof (FLP) motors, which are suitable for use in potentially explosive environments. These low voltage motors, which are manufactured at the company’s Faridabad facility, have a number of advantages, including low vibration levels, increased reliability for a longer lifespan, and reduced maintenance requirements for a lower total cost of ownership.

The flameproof motors can withstand extreme temperatures, corrosive dust, and humidity while still operating reliably. They meet Indian and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards, as well as the most stringent requirements of the chemical, oil and gas, and pharmaceutical industries. The motors have been certified by the Petroleum & Explosives Safety Organization (PESO), a nodal agency for regulating the safety of hazardous substances such as explosives, compressed gases, and petroleum, and are rated for ambient temperatures between –20 °C and +45 °C.

The company’s low-voltage flameproof motors have an advanced surface treatment that resists even extreme environmental conditions. For rigidity and to ensure vibration-free operation with foot-mounted applications, the motors have a strong frame with integrated feet. To ensure a safe and reliable enclosure, the machined surfaces that form the flame path are more stringent than required standards, thoroughly inspected, and protected against even minor damage. On the bolts, there are also cast shrouds that provide mechanical safety and protection.

It is critical to ensure the safe use of electrical apparatus in explosive environments. The new FLP motors can withstand the pressure generated by an internal explosion without being damaged. They are certified for gas groups IIA, IIB, and IIC and prevent flame propagation outside of the enclosure. The new range of motors in India are designed in line with FLP motors manufactured at ABB’s global factories and are offered to customers in high efficiency (IE2) and premium efficiency (IE3) classes and in small-to-mid (80-250) frame size with an output ranging from 0.18-55kW.

Furthermore, ABB provides a distinct digital advantage in flameproof motors to improve operational efficiency, predictability, and safety. Customers can use ABB Ability™ smart sensors to activate the remote condition monitoring feature in their flameproof motors. As an option, the sensors can be factory installed on the motors. This feature provides useful information on motor condition and performance, allowing customers to plan their maintenance more intelligently. They can plan maintenance based on actual needs rather than time intervals or operating hours alone. This reduces or even eliminates unplanned stops, lowering maintenance costs.

Sanjeev Arora, President, ABB Motion India, commented, “With this launch, we have set a new benchmark for safety and energy efficiency in the flameproof market segment. Our locally manufactured motors are designed with improved safety features and ensure a more energy-efficient operation for customers in India.”

Image Source: ABB