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Novel multi-phase motor `could lift profits`

01 June, 2003

Novel multi-phase motor `could lift profits`

A prototype of a novel high-starting-torque motor-drive made its global public debut at this month`s Drives & Controls Show in Birmingham, UK. The Chorus Meshcon drives are based on motors with a novel multi-phase winding said to harness harmonic energy which normally goes to waste.

At the show, a 1.1kW Chorus motor was demonstrated (as shown above) running head-to-head with a conventional induction motor and drive.

Chorus Motors, which has been developing its technology for several years, is now selling prototypes in three sizes - 1.1kW, 15kW and 150kW - for evaluation by potential licencees. The company hopes that commercial production will start by the end of this year.

Chorus is tempting potential licencees with the claim that its motor-drives will deliver much higher profit margins than traditional motor designs. "Chorus Meshcon`s expected reduction in drive cost of over 60% in a highly commoditised market will allow licenced motor and drive manufacturers to offer a quality product while restoring or enhancing their profit margins," says Chorus Motors` president, Isaiah Cox.

The new technology, "gives customers the best of both worlds," he adds. "They can use a substantially smaller, lighter and cheaper motor and drive for the same high start-up torque, without sacrificing high-speed operation."

The Chorus motor is manufactured using conventional techniques but with a novel winding structure. The power silicon components used in its dedicated controller cost up to 70% less than those in a conventional drive with a similar output, says Chorus. The controller simulates high-speed operation, allowing it to output maximum current and voltage to the motor at low speeds.

The Chorus drive can be produced in sizes from less than 1kW to several megawatts, and is aimed especially at duties where the motor needs to be started and stopped frequently under load. Potential applications range from car starter-alternators to conveyors, robots, hoists and locomotives.

Chorus Motors is the subsidiary of a Canadian mining company, with headquarters in Gibraltar, and development laboratories in North America.




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