Date
November 29, 2023
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Motors 101

Temperature's Impact on Motor Life Expectancy

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Electric motors are ubiquitous in our daily lives. They power everything from industrial machinery to household appliances. We depend on them to do a lot. There are a number of factors in how long we can expect an electric motor to last. But one of the biggest is temperature, which can significantly impact motor life expectancy.

Understanding the relationship between temperature and motor life is crucial for efficient operation. This relationship is also an important indicator for knowing when a motor needs maintenance.

Tempature VS Life Curves

IEEE Standards And Temperature Impact On Motor Life

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) sets industry standards. These standards provide valuable insights into how temperature affects the expected life of electric motors. According to IEEE standards, the winding design life of a motor approximately doubles with a decrease of 10°C in temperature rise. Conversely, a 10°C increase will halve the winding design life of a motor.

To put this into perspective, consider an insulation system operating at its thermal limit with a design life of 20,000 hours. That's roughly equivalent to 2.3 years. The standard thermal limits for Class F motors have a temperature limit of 155°C. Combine this with Marathon's design practice of 130°C total temperature rises under load, and you get a remarkable difference. Marathon provides an astounding 100,000 hours of winding life, which is five times the industry standard.

This remarkable durability is a key reason why Marathon's horizontal motors continue to operate reliably in countless applications even today.

Leeson's Reputation For Durable Motors

Temperature plays a pivotal role in determining the expected life of electric motors. Leeson's commitment to temperature management has set them apart in the industry. By adhering to the principles of Class B and Class F temperature rises, Marathon motors can withstand a wide range of conditions, ensuring longevity and reliability.

Adhering to IEEE standards allows for a better understanding of how temperature directly impacts motor life. This also emphasizes the importance of temperature control in motor applications. Marathon motors have earned their reputation for durability and continue to power industries and homes alike with unmatched performance and longevity.

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