Magnets make the difference in saving energy

In all industrial sectors and markets, energy consumption is becoming a decisive criterion when selecting new systems and modernising existing ones. When pumping water from boreholes or tanks, this is also becoming one of the most important aspects along with optimal dimensioning and the reliability and quality of the system. Since the energy consumption of a pump system accounts for up to 90% of the total life cycle costs, the operating costs can be reduced considerably. This is exactly where magnets come in.

Franklin Electric has developed the High Efficiency Pump System, which enables energy savings of up to 21%. The key factor for energy savings and superior efficiency is the permanent magnet technology of the motor. Instead of a short-circuit induction type rotor, the high efficiency motor contains a permanent magnet rotor design with buried magnets with significantly improved efficiency and overall lower energy consumption compared to a standard induction motor. The Permanent Magnet Motor design eliminates electrical rotor losses resulting in lower motor amps, improved partial load behaviour and reduced temperature heat rise.

Franklin Electric has been offering the High Efficiency system for many years. Permanent magnet technology was not new when Franklin Electric developed it for the submersible application, but engineers faced unique challenges because of the diameter limitations in submersible applications. For surface applications, you can change the geometry and design larger, wider and longer. However, the application in the well with a limited diameter brought some design challenges.

Numerous installations worldwide impressively demonstrate the success of this system, where great savings could be achieved. In most cases, the system pays for itself in less than 2 years. Further practical examples can be found on the Franklin Electric website.

The High Efficiency Systems are today used in a wide variety of applications and can be found in industrial plants as well as small businesses. The savings effect naturally also increases with the size of the application. In particular, high-duty cycle applications with high loads of up to 250kW can be found in municipal waterworks and in the dewatering of mining sites. Small 4 inch systems are increasingly used by farmers for irrigation. The integrated communication platform of the supplied variable frequency converter enables remote control and maintenance.

For more technical details on savings through permanent magnet technology, watch: