April 24, 2006: Ultra-efficient Motors With Copper Rotors Enter U.S. Market
NEW YORK - A practical die-cast copper rotor for electric motors has been the "holy grail" for motor manufacturers for many years, says the Copper Development Association. Last year, Siemens AG, Munich, Germany, optimized the revolutionary rotor design and recently introduced three new product lines to the North American market through its U.S. operating company, Siemens Energy & Automation Inc. The company claims its unique die-cast copper rotor design is one of the key elements that enable its Ultra Efficient motors to exceed NEMA Premium® standards.
The new copper rotor technology is the result of several years of research and development by the Copper Development Association (CDA) and the International Copper Association, both headquartered in New York City. Dr. John Cowie, CDA project manager of the research program, congratulated Siemens on successfully bringing the new technology to the U.S. market. He noted that Siemens has been an important partner in determining the economic feasibility of commercializing the copper die-casting technology. "Siemens has raised the bar on electrical motor efficiency, and we look forward to more manufacturers adopting the technology. The use of die-cast copper rotors reduces energy requirements, allows motors to run cooler, extends motor life, and reduces overall weight and/or size."