Motors
Three motor families
The choice of motor determines the efficiency, consumption and service life of an air handling unit. DEPAIR selects the technology best suited to each application.
Asynchronous motors
The most widespread in ventilation. Powered by alternating current, their speed depends on the frequency, the number of poles and the load (slip): approx. 3,000 rpm for a 2-pole at 50 Hz, approx. 1,500 rpm for a 4-pole. Their efficiency is graded in classes IE1 to IE4. Under standard IEC 60034-30-1, since 2017 an IE2 motor with speed control — or an IE3 — has been mandatory for outputs from 0.75 to 375 kW.
Permanent magnet motors
More efficient, they reach class IE4 by default. One critical point: their magnets often rely on rare earths, which are problematic environmentally. For greater sustainability at lower cost, ferrite magnets — less efficient but greener and more affordable — are gaining ground.
EC motors
Compact permanent magnet motors with integrated electronics. Long restricted to low outputs (up to 1 kW), they are now fitted to medium and large installations up to 10 kW and airflows reaching 20,000 m³/h. Their speed is controlled directly by a command signal sent to the integrated control unit.
Towards ever more efficient motors
Given the long service life of motors, the most efficient models are gradually taking over. EC and permanent magnet motors offer the best efficiencies; ferrite magnet solutions provide a sustainable, economical compromise. All in the service of controlled consumption and quiet operation.
Source: SFOE (Swiss Federal Office of Energy).
Which motor for your project?
Asynchronous, permanent magnet or EC: we advise you on the drive best suited to your installation.
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