Rising Energy Costs To Spur Demand For Micro Electric Drives

In Europe, motor-driven applications account for almost 65.0 per cent of energy consumed in manufacturing plants.



“To limit electricity consumption by motors, manufacturers are investing in energy-regulating devices such as variable-frequency drives,” noted Frost & Sullivan Industrial Automation & Process Control Research Analyst Raaj Thilak Raveendran. “Moreover, as energy prices spiral and regulations promoting optimal energy usage become stricter, most manufacturers are expected to upgrade their plants with energy-efficient equipment.”



Technological advances in microprocessors and insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) technology have made electric drives more compact and user-friendly. This is encouraging more OEMs to use electric drives in their machines. Evolving semiconductor technology has resulted in electric drives that are capable of withstanding high temperatures, allowing them to be directly mounted onto motors.



“Most micro electric drive manufacturers are now offering OEMs such packaged drive solutions that reduce the use of control cabinet, complex wiring and space,” explained Raveendran. “OEMs are favouring the integrated motor drive concept because it supports lower costs and project planning time.”



However, increasing commoditisation and the availability of cheaper products from Asia threaten market prospects. To offset these challenges, micro electric drive manufacturers in Europe are focusing on product and service differentiation. Enhanced life-cycle support also help in reinforcing and expanding the customer base.