Baldor Electric Company Introduces New Cooling Tower Motor and Drive System

Baldor Electric Company introduces a new adjustable speed direct drive cooling tower system that improves reliability, reduces maintenance, runs quieter and saves energy. By combining the technologies of the field-proven, laminated finned frame Baldor Reliance RPM AC motor with a high-performance permanent magnet rotor design, this power-dense motor and power-matched adjustable speed drive replaces the right-angle gearbox and jack shaft installation found in many conventional industrial process cooling towers.

The fan couples directly to the motor and is controlled by the ABB ACS880 cooling tower drive to provide optimal variable speed performance that runs quieter with reduced energy consumption. This drive offers specific cooling tower parameters, allowing for easy configuration and start-up. The ABB cooling tower drive also provides a “quick start assistant” specifically for cooling tower applications making start up simple and straightforward.

The totally enclosed air over (TEAO) RPM AC cooling tower motor provides the right solution for operation inside a tower’s hot and humid environment and requires only minimal maintenance. An Inpro/Seal bearing isolator and slinger prevents water ingress along the shaft, and condensation drains relieve any moisture that may collect inside the motor. The electrical insulation system is manufactured using a vacuum pressure impregnation (VPI) process that ensures long motor life even in the most extreme conditions.