New labels for describing electricity consumption

The A+, A++ and A+++ class scale is disappearing, and the previously used, clearer energy labelling scale (ranging from A to G) is being restored. QR codes are also being introduced which, once scanned, will direct consumers to the EU EPREL database, where they can find additional information about the product.

The answer to today’s changes in refrigeration is the use of EC motors from AiFO Components. Our range includes fan motors and fans in EC technology for commercial refrigeration equipment (for many applications).

WHAT IS AN EC MOTOR?

An EC motor (electronically commutated motor) is a direct current motor without a mechanical commutator and brushes. In technical terminology, such motors are also called brushless motors (BLDC – brushless DC electric motor). Electronic commutation has eliminated wearing parts such as the brushes and the commutator. This increases the reliability and service life of these motors, but these are not their only advantages.

Advantages of EC motors compared to AC motors:

  • Higher energy efficiency and torque.
  • Lower energy consumption.
  • Speed control almost independent of motor torque.
  • Smaller motor design for the same power.
  • Quieter operation across the entire speed range.
  • Much lower operating temperature of the rotor windings.
  • A combination of many features and advantages of AC and DC motors.

EC motors from AiFO Components (MOTOR ADVANTAGES):

  • ATEX certified and compliant with the essential requirements for products intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.
  • Suitable for systems using R290 refrigerant, which has a low GWP of 3 and is therefore environmentally neutral.
  • Available supply voltages: 120V AC 50/60Hz; 230V AC 50/60Hz; 12, 24 or 48VDC.
  • IP 55 (higher on request).
  • Operating range from 500 rpm to 2100 rpm.
  • All the necessary certificates: CCC, CE, RoHs, VDE, UL, Ex.
  • Much cheaper to operate than conventional motors.
  • Quick connectors can be fitted on the leads.
  • Dedicated cable harnesses can be used to connect motors and fans.

Electronically commutated motors are designed for use in condensers and evaporators of commercial refrigeration equipment.

Our range includes two families of EC motors, SKW-ECY-… and SKW-ECO/EX, as well as WT-EC axial fans with various performance ranges.

ECY MOTOR MODELS ARE AVAILABLE IN THE FOLLOWING VARIANTS:

  • ECY-01 – single motor speed
  • ECY-02 – two speed modes: high and low speed setting; on request, reverse operation on demand or for a defined time.
  • ECY-03 – variable speed using pulse width modulation (PWM).

EXAMPLE: ECY series motors can be supplied with fully assembled fan rings and blades (ø154mm ~ ø254mm), with imperial or metric fixings, with a European standard mounting plate (ø3.5 mm fixing screws) or a US standard mounting plate (ø 4.2 mm fixing screws).

The power cable of ECY series motors can be supplied in the length preferred by the customer, complete with connectors and moulded plugs already fitted for quick connection in the final application.

AXIAL FANS:

✔️ WT-EC… – axial fans equipped with electronically commutated motors. Variable speed (PWM, Tacho) available as an option.

SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Supply voltage 100–240 V 50/60 Hz.
  • ATEX version on request – WT-EC120x38BHL fan as standard.
  • IP54 (higher on request).
  • 75% lower energy consumption than conventional axial fans.
  • Power consumption: from 4.5 W to 9.5 W.
  • Airflow: from 66 m³/h to 210.6 m³/h.
  • Bearing type: ball bearing.
  • Rotational speed: 3500 rpm.
  • Operating temperature: - 30…+ 70 ºC.
  • Connection: 2.8x0.3 mm connectors.
  • Ready-made cable harnesses can be used to connect the fans.
  • Certificates: CE RoHs UL and EX (on request).

FAN ASSEMBLIES FOR REFRIGERATION

SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Built on EC motors.
  • Steel or plastic fan ring.
  • Aluminium or plastic blade.
  • IP rating: IP55 (higher on request).
  • Precision sealed ball bearings.
  • Nominal bearing life: 40,000 hours at an ambient temperature of 40 ºC.
  • Certificates: CE TUV RoHs UL and EX (on request).

DIAMETERS: Ø154 mm, Ø172 mm, Ø200 mm, Ø230 mm, Ø254 mm, Ø300 mm

ACCESSORIES: BLADES, GUARDS, RINGS

SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Guards made of galvanised steel or steel painted grey or black.
  • Rings made of grey-painted steel.
  • Blades made of aluminium or white plastic.
  • Suction (SWS) or blowing (SWT) version.

BLADE DIAMETER: Ø154 mm, Ø172 mm, Ø200 mm, Ø230 mm, Ø254 mm, Ø300 mm

In summary, EC technology is increasingly used in commercial refrigeration, which has reduced energy consumption by 70% (compared to conventional shaded-pole motors). EC motors offer a significant increase in efficiency, reliability and a longer service life, which is crucial for manufacturers of refrigeration and low-temperature equipment as well as for their customers. In addition, speed control means that one motor model can be used for several applications, reducing the range of materials held in stock.

If energy efficiency is a key goal of the equipment you are designing, EC fans and motors from AiFO Components can give you the best solution at the most competitive price on the market.

Thanks to new technological processes and changing consumer habits, the estimated cumulative savings will amount to 38.1 TWh/year. That is the average annual consumption of a country such as Hungary. We therefore encourage you to contact our advisors, who will help you choose suitable, energy-efficient solutions. If you already know what you need, we also recommend our B2B shop.