Advanced Energy Releases Report on Raser's FlexMod
System
Tests demonstrated up to 10% system efficiency
improvement for HVAC systems; recommends advising
motor manufacturers of the potential impact of the
technology
Executive Summary |
Introduction
| Conclusion
Executive Summary
Most of the electricity generated in the United
States is used in an electric motor. In U.S.
industry, there are more than 13 million motors.
Many of these are operating inefficiently because of
changing loads or less than optimum control schemes.
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that
improved system controls including variable speed
drives could save nearly 15,000 gigawatt-hours per
year and potentially $900 million per year in energy
savings in pump, fan and compressed air systems
alone.
Therefore, there is a market need for an
efficient, modular motor controller capable of
operating with a range of motor sizes and types. The
wide applicability and low cost could result in
substantial energy savings in industry, residential
and hybrid vehicle markets. The overall objective of
this project was to develop and evaluate such a
controller.
Symetron FlexMod Controller
Under this project, Raser Technologies
developed the FlexMod controller using Symetron
technology. This motor controller design uses
adaptive tuning to optimize performance based upon
unique motor characteristics. The prototype drive
can use various power modules and different IGBT
designs. The modular construction methods should
reduce manufactured costs.
EC Dynamometer with 20 hp Motor
Advanced Energy tested the FlexMod controller and a
comparable, commercially available controller on a 5
hp and a 20 hp AC induction motor. The tests
produced a system efficiency map over 300 to 1800
rpm and 25% to 125% rated torque. The tests
demonstrated that the FlexMod design was 2 to 10%
more energy efficient on average.
The results of this project should be provided to
major motor manufacturers and the utility industry
in order to reduce energy costs in the industrial,
residential and hybrid vehicle markets.
more...
Executive Summary
|
Introduction |
Conclusion
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