Conducting a Motor Survey: Key Step for Establishing a Motor Management Policy

Abstract

Roughly 70% of the energy consumed by manufacturing processes is used by electric motors. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, greater attention to motor systems management can reduce motor-related energy costs by 18%. Establishing a motor management policy is therefore an essential task for any plant manager or engineer concerned with minimizing motor (and process) downtime and reducing energy costs. In order to develop an effective motor policy, a manager needs information on the number and condition of motors in use. A targeted motor survey will collect data on a representative sample of a plant's motor population. This survey information will then provide a basis for further development of the motor policy. This paper discusses the process of conducting a motor survey. It identifies the type of information to be collected, along with a methodology for selecting appropriate sample motors for more detailed investigations.