Reliable Short-Term Operation and Safety Must Take Precedence over Efficiency

Abstract

Introduction

This document explains the common position shared by CEMEP and NEMA regarding the reliable operation and safety of electric motors.

The position strongly held by both organizations is that safety and reliable operation should never be compromised as a result of striving for higher electrical efficiency.

Motor safety concerns should always take precedence.

Reliability is a safety concern when loss or diminished operation can result in injury or death.

There are applications such as fire pump motors, which infrequently run, where reliable operation is critical.

In these applications, the limited energy savings based on motor efficiency should not be considered a higher priority than the potential loss of life or property.

Failure of other types of motors such as smoke extraction motors, brake motors, and motors used in explosive atmospheres, can lead to extreme hazards if they do not operate when needed or fail unexpectedly.