ANSWERS
COVER: MOTORS AND DRIVES Michael Lyda, Advanced Energy
Motors and drives: Tips and tools for efficient motor management Webcast presenter answers more motor management questions to improve process reliability and reduce energy costs.
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otor-driven systems account for about half of all electricity generated in the world and are likely the biggest energy users at your facility. Reducing energy costs by improving these systems can be simple with improved motor management practices. In a recent Plant Engineering webcast, available in its on-line archives, Michael Lyda, motor and drive engineer, Advanced Energy Corp. shared his expertise with attendees. He discussed how to streamline motor management practices, quickly
improve process reliability and reduce energy costs. Following the presentation, Michael answered questions from the audience. Below are the questions, and Michael’s responses, that he was unable to address during the webcast because of time constraints. The audience asked about purchase specifications and lifecycle cost analyses for electric motors, and operation and maintenance best practices. Variable frequency drives (VFDs) were also covered, including basic operation, energy efficiency benefits and potential applications.
Figure 1: In a typical client witness test at Advanced Energy, clients witness testing at the lab and multiple engineers participate. Images courtesy: Advanced Energy www.controleng.com
control engineering
March 2021
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