Driving next-level efficiency in the chemical industry

Chemicals are the carbon-heavy lifeblood of global industry, and motors are the beating heart that drives their production. They power pumps, fans, compressors and many other applications. Across industry, pumping systems consume a significant amount of electricity, accounting for 10 per cent of the world’s total electrical energy consumption and approximately 20 per cent of industrial electricity usage.

 

To address the climate emergency, business leaders need to find new and better ways to power the chemical industry – without compromising on cost or performance. Right on cue and purpose-built for the challenge, ABB’s SynRM Increased Safety motors secure energy savings, reduced emissions and a brighter future for our planet. 

 

Change is essential

 

A paramount global concern for the chemical industry is to improve its energy efficiency. The reason is that according to the International Energy Agency (IEA), this sector ranks as the second-largest consumer of industrial energy and is the third-largest direct emitter of CO2. The potential for progress is evident, as technology already exists to make substantial strides towards achieving carbon neutrality within decades. Key to this journey is the replacement of outdated equipment with newer, energy-efficient alternatives.

 

The nexus of efficiency: drives and motors

 

Considering the chemical industry’s energy-intensive nature and its escalating demands, the role of motors and variable speed drives (VSD) becomes critical. ABB’s award-winning synchronous reluctance (SynRM) motor and drive packages eclipse the alternatives in achieving the highest levels of efficiency (IE5) currently attainable. The extension of the range to include the new SynRM Increased Safety motors unlocks new levels of energy efficiency within extreme environments.

 

Economic benefits and the total cost of ownership

 

The imperative to enhance energy efficiency in chemical production processes is a pivotal stride towards a sustainable future. With SynRM Increased Safety motors, customers operating in hazardous area industries where explosive gas, vapour or dust might be present can ensure safety and boost their energy efficiency. These motors have up to 40 per cent lower energy losses compared to commonly used IE3 motors, helping businesses save energy and boost productivity. Using SynRM technology can lead to substantial reductions in electricity consumption within motor-driven systems – often by 25 per cent or more. Furthermore, SynRM motors tend to run cooler, ensuring a longer life with lower maintenance needs.

 

While less efficient motors might have lower initial capital expenditures (CapEx), assessing the total cost of ownership (TCO) reveals the true story. Around 97 per cent of a SynRM motor’s TCO arises from the electricity it uses throughout its service life, with maintenance comprising just 1 per cent and CapEx only 2 per cent.