Big Single-Phase Motors Solve Power Supply Problems

Big Single-Phase Motors Solve Power Supply Problems ENERGY Alternative Fuels “We are the only company in the world that makes large horsepower single-phase motors ” says Ben Morris Single Phase Power Solutions SPPS in Cincinnati Ohio “Our 15 to 100 hp motors are ideal for farmers and ranchers without access to 3-phase power They are a more economical alternative to large stationary diesel propane or natural gas-powered motors ”     Ronnie Barber co-inventor of the company’s “Written-Pole” technology describes it as adding a layer of permanent magnets around the rotor surface They are magnetized as the motor comes up to speed Once it reaches full speed the motor runs as a permanent magnet motor This reduces energy loss in the motor to zero making it more efficient than a 3-phase motor even if 3-phase power is available     Morris points out that when 3-phase power is not available bringing it in can typically cost $30 000 or more per mile In addition a 3-phase motor has its own costs     Barber explains that induction motors single or 3-phase can require from 6 to 8 times the running current at start-up That can create a voltage sag or flicker in the neighborhood and result in extra demand fees from the utility     “Our Written-Pole motors require a starting current that is less than 2 times running current ” says Barber “That allows us to put larger horsepower motors on line than you could with any induction motor design ”     High horsepower 3-phase motors can run on single-phase lines with a Variable Frequency Drive VFD or with phase converters that imitate 3-phase power Both create harmonic distortion on the utility line which can destroy electronic equipment on the line     “Increasingly utility companies are requiring a harmonic filter be used with a VFD or phase converter ” says Morris “That can add $10 000 to the cost of a $3 000 phase converter Some co-op utilities won’t even allow them to be installed due to the harmonic distortion     “Our motors with their synchronous mode of operation actually absorb harmonics off the line ” he adds     Diesel-powered generators can cost $12 an hour to run without counting maintenance time and cost “Our motors can save up to 70 percent what a diesel will cost ” says Morris “They are also more dependable ”     He cites a Texas customer’s 40-hp motor that was under 10 ft of floodwater for 7 days when the Red River flooded in 2015     “When it dried out we sent him a new control card for the panel and he turned it on ” says Morris “It ran and has been going strong ever since ”     In addition to dependability Morris notes that Belle motors have instant restarts after a momentary power interruption They are capable of sustained starting conditions for greater duration than conventional motors without overheating     SPPS sells its motor with a proprietary control panel as a system Morris says the motors in their cast iron frame are designed to take a beating     “Our motor is one your son will still be running years from now ” he says “Motor and control panels are designed for outdoor use as well as indoor ”     SPPS Belle motor systems are priced from $11 000 for a 30 hp motor to $26 000 for a 100 hp motor Maintenance consists of twice a year greasing of bearings     Contact: FARM SHOW Followup Single Phase Power Solutions 5460 Muddy Creek Rd Cincinnati Ohio 45238 ph 513 399-6263; toll free 877 430-5634; sales@sppowersolutions com; www sppowersolutions com

To read the rest of this story, download this issue below or click here to register with your account number.