Improving energy efficiency, increasing equipment reliability, and meeting sustainability expectations are key priorities across today’s industrial landscape. In response, ABB’s Synchronous Reluctance (SynRM) motors offer a technically sound and energy-efficient alternative to traditional motor technologies.

The SynRM range supports a broad spectrum of industrial applications and is available in configurations tailored to the mining sector, including specifications that meet the operational demands and compliance standards of Australian mine sites.

Rotor Design and Operating Principle

At the core of ABB’s SynRM motors is a rotor design that contains no windings, magnets, or rare earth materials. Instead, it uses a precisely shaped laminated steel structure to guide magnetic flux along the path of least resistance. This design eliminates rotor losses entirely, improving overall efficiency and reducing internal heat.

Certified to IE5 ultra-premium efficiency, SynRM motors deliver up to 40% lower energy losses than IE3 motors, resulting in lower energy consumption, reduced heat generation, and less stress on surrounding components. Their mechanically simple design also means fewer parts subject to wear and maintenance.

Key Operational and Engineering Benefits

By combining the simplicity of an induction motor with the performance of a synchronous machine, SynRM motors offer a well-balanced solution for demanding operations. Notable advantages include:

• High energy efficiency, supporting reductions in operating costs
• Cooler operating temperatures, contributing to longer service life
• Quiet running characteristics, ideal for enclosed or noise-sensitive environments
• Extended maintenance intervals, lowering downtime and servicing effort
• Stable performance under continuous-duty conditions

Mining-Ready Options Available

While ABB’s SynRM motors are used across a range of industries, mining-specific options are available to suit site and compliance requirements. These include:

• RAL2011 orange paint for visibility on mining sites
• IP ratings up to IP66 for protection against dust and moisture
• Custom mechanical options such as reinforced bearings and anti-condensation heaters
• IEC frame compatibility, simplifying integration or replacement

These features support consistent performance in environments where mechanical stress, abrasive conditions, and reliability expectations are high.

Strategic and Environmental Considerations

The SynRM design not only delivers technical performance but also avoids the use of rare earth materials, which are increasingly scrutinised for their environmental impact and supply chain risk. Combined with lower energy consumption and reduced emissions, these motors offer a practical pathway to supporting sustainability targets while maintaining reliability.

Explore how ABB’s SynRM motors can support your next project. Visit www.ipd.com.au or contact your local IPD representative today.