Establishing and adhering to an electric motor maintenance program can ensure the longevity and efficiency of a facility's motor systems. "Any manufacturer whose machinery or facility runs on a motor system should utilize this type of plan, and proper motor maintenance should be understood by each facility manager, supervisor and/or an engineer," said a Copper Development Association (CDA) spokesperson. "A comprehensive plan helps to keep equipment working and can identify potential problems before they become disruptive."
The third installment of the CDA's Motor Management Program, "Repair Specifications, and Preventive and Predictive Maintenance," provides an outline for creating motor repair specifications and an effective maintenance plan.
"A successful motor management plan will contain three key elements: well-documented repair specifications, preventive maintenance and predictive maintenance," said Richard deFay, Project Manager for CDA's Sustainable Energy Program. "Utilizing these fundamentals can reduce overall maintenance costs for any industrial, commercial or learning institution that has a motor by eliminating breakdowns and saving energy. It is a win-win."
Reliable repair specifications help to ensure that a motor is repaired successfully and to its maximum energy efficiency. There are many technical resources available to help users develop these guidelines. Organizations like Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) provide references for motor repair, while trade organizations like the Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA) provide educational programs for members. The Department of Energy also provides a free Model Repair Specifications publication online (www1.eere.energy.gov/manufacturing/tech_assistance/pdfs/repair_specs_motors.pdf).
The next step is to develop a maintenance plan that utilizes both preventive and periodic predictive strategies to keep equipment in the best condition possible for the longest period of time. Preventive maintenance occurs while equipment is shut down and helps to keep it running. Predictive maintenance occurs while the equipment is running normally, and aims to identify potential problems before they occur.
A well-trained and informed staff is necessary to successful motor maintenance. A local electric motor service center can assist a facility in training staff or providing direct services for preventive and predictive maintenance.
The third installment of CDA's Motor Management Program is available in PDF format at www.copper.org/environment/sustainable-energy/electric-motors/case-studies/a6150.pdf. Visit copper.org to read the complete Motor Management Best Practices Series.
For more information contact:
Copper Development Association Inc.
260 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10016
212-251-7200
questions@copperalliance.us
www.copper.org