ABB Achieves IE6 Hyper-Efficiency with Magnet-Free Motors
ABB has become the first manufacturer to reach the anticipated IE6 hyper-efficiency level with its magnet-free synchronous reluctance motor (SynRM) technology. This milestone marks a significant advancement in the SynRM technology that ABB pioneered in 2011. The new motors are designed for customers looking to future-proof their operations by adopting the highest level of energy efficiency available on the market. Early adopters of these IE6 hyper-efficiency motors can expect reduced energy costs, increased productivity, and a significant step toward meeting sustainability targets.
"Motor-driven systems in industrial facilities are major users of electricity, and maximizing their efficiency offers huge potential to cut emissions and help meet climate change targets. Our new magnet-free SynRM motors, reaching efficiency levels expected for future IE6, will take energy savings to the next level," said Stefan Floeck, Division President IEC Low Voltage Motors, ABB Motion. "SynRM exemplifies the innovation at the core of our company. The IE6 SynRM motor is the same size as an equivalent IE3 induction motor, making it an easy and straightforward replacement for legacy motors. This enables customers to upgrade to high-efficiency products and future-proof their operations in a world of fluctuating energy costs."
ABB's extensive range of SynRM motors has set the standard for magnet-free design, progressing from IE4 to the IE5 versions launched in 2019. The IE6 efficiency level, though not yet specified in any official industry-wide standard, is seen as the next logical step. Each higher IE efficiency class has historically offered 20 percent lower energy losses than the previous one, a trend ABB continues with the IE6 SynRM.
SynRM motors combine the performance of permanent magnet (PM) motors with the simplicity and service-friendliness of induction motors, achieving high energy efficiency with virtually no power losses due to their rotor design, which lacks magnets and windings. This design also eliminates the need for rare earth metals, enhancing the motors' sustainability and usability, supported by the wide availability of suitable variable speed drives (VSDs).
ABB SynRM motors are part of the ABB EcoSolutions™ product portfolio, which promotes sustainable choices by providing transparency about each product’s circularity value and environmental impact. These products comply with key performance indicators defined in ABB’s circularity framework and carry an external, third-party verified environmental product declaration (ISO 14025 Type III).
The magnet-free SynRM motors are a key component of ABB’s premium portfolio of high-performance motors, reflecting over 140 years of domain expertise and a strong commitment to sustainability. Recognizing that no single technology can meet all customer needs, ABB offers a comprehensive range of hyper-efficient motor technologies, including PM and PM-assisted SynRM (PMaSynRM) motors. This hybrid technology pairs SynRM design with a permanent magnet boost, ensuring the right solution for every application-specific need.
ABB continues to lead in motor technology innovation, offering reliable and sustainable solutions to help customers achieve their energy efficiency and sustainability goals
