Analysis of the payback period of a modernized pump unit with induction electric motors of advanced energy efficiency classes

Abstract

Aim. The comparative analysis of energy consumption, electricity costs during lifetime cycle and payback period of a pump unit with 90 kW 2-pole induction motors, belonging to various energy efficiency classes, feeding directly from power grid. Methods. The examined operating modes aligned with a typical operating cycle of a pump unit with approximately constant flow rate of 75-110 % of the rated flow. The calculations were based on the pump and induction motors nameplate data, which, in their turn, were based on the manufacturers’ experimental data. Results. The calculations of energy consumption, electricity costs and payback periods of a pump unit with 90 kW 2-pole induction motors, feeding directly from power grid have been performed in the article. The application of induction motors belonging to IE2, IE3 and IE4 energy efficiency classes has been discussed. Practical value. It has been demonstrated, than in case of replacement of an induction motor of energy efficiency class IE2 due to planned retrofit, payback period for an IE4 induction motor is 2.18 years, energy savings within a calculated 20-year operating period are 268MW·h, which makes €41110 in money terms. Under the same conditions, the replacement of an induction motor of energy efficiency class IE2 with an induction motor of energy efficiency class IE3 will allow to save 88 MW·h within a calculated operating period, which, expressed in monetary terms, is €13500 and the payback period is 5.11 years. Thus, the article proves that despite a higher initial price, the choice of an induction motor of energy efficiency class IE4 tends to be more economically advantageous.

Keywords

• centrifugal pump
• energy efficiency
• energy efficiency class
• induction motor
• throttling control
• energy saving
• payback period
• lifetime cycle