Description
ABB’s IE5 ultra-premium efficiency motor range features Synchronous Reluctance (SynRM) technology, offering power ratings from 0.75 kW up to 450 kW (with some variants up to 1,000 kW) and frame sizes 90-315. These magnet-free, IE5-compliant motors reduce energy losses by up to 40% compared to IE3 models. ABB IE5 SynRM (Synchronous Reluctance) motors generally operate at nominal speeds of 1,500 rpm (4-pole) or 3,000 rpm (2-pole) at 50Hz, with wider operating ranges (e.g., 2100/3000 rpm) possible depending on the drive configuration. These, "ultra-premium efficiency" motors are designed for variable speed applications, providing precise control, and are available in various power ratings from 0.75 kW to 600 kW.
Specifications
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View our servicesIE5 Efficiency Motors overview
IE5 ultra-premium efficiency motors from ABB use synchronous reluctance (SynRM) technology. The rotor has no magnets and no cage, so rotor losses are almost eliminated. ABB states IE5 SynRM motors have up to about 40% lower losses than IE3 motors.
What makes SynRM different
- Magnet-free: no rare-earth materials, simple and robust rotor.
- Cooler running: lower winding and bearing temperatures, which extends bearing and insulation life.
- Must run on a VFD: SynRM motors cannot be started direct-on-line. ABB supplies them as a motor-drive package (for example with ACS580, ACQ580, ACH580 or ACS880) for best results.
- High part-load efficiency: efficient across a wide speed range, ideal for pumps and fans.
Is IE5 worth it?
IE5 pays back best on variable-speed, long-running loads such as pumps, fans and compressors where you are installing a VFD anyway. The combined motor + drive package can reach very high system efficiency classes (IES2 per IEC 61800-9-2). Send us the duty profile and we will compare IE3 + VFD, IE4 + VFD and IE5 SynRM + VFD.
Typical applications
- Variable-speed pumps in water and wastewater
- Fans and blowers in HVAC and process plants
- Compressors
- Conveyors and extruders on VFD
- Energy-efficiency retrofits with new drives
Selection tips
- Always pair SynRM IE5 motors with a compatible ABB VFD.
- Select the motor and drive together as a package.
- Prioritise loads that run long hours at varying speed.
- Check frame size and shaft height against the existing motor for retrofits.
IE5 Efficiency Motors: frequently asked questions
Can an IE5 SynRM motor run without a VFD?
No. Synchronous reluctance motors need a variable frequency drive to start and run.
How efficient are IE5 motors compared with IE3?
ABB states up to about 40% lower losses than IE3 motors, which typically means several percentage points higher efficiency.
Do IE5 SynRM motors contain magnets?
No. ABB's SynRM motors are magnet-free, which avoids rare-earth materials.
Which ABB drives work with SynRM motors?
ABB all-compatible drives such as ACS580, ACQ580, ACH580 and ACS880 support SynRM control. We supply matched motor-drive packages.
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