Electro-mechanical power transmission supplier Vert Energy’s Leroy-Somer LSK direct current (DC) motors provide cost-effective solutions for variable speed applications. 

Leroy-Somer has a “depth of experience” with alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) variable-speed drive systems and designs its standard motors to withstand the new demands being imposed by frequency converters and variable speed operation, says Vert Energy MD Grant Robertson.

Vert Energy is the exclusive distributor for Leroy-Somer in Southern Africa.

“These motors are able to withstand frequent speed or torque changes and reversals, running at overspeed – up to 6 000 rpm for the standard four pole machine – and at lower speeds with full torque, without drawbacks like overheating, loosening of stator windings and damage to rotors or bearings.

“The major advantage of DC motors is the ease of effecting accurate speed control and LSK's advanced technology enables motors to respond to electronic controllers which place great demands on the performance of DC motors. Smooth running has been achieved by the introduction of an advanced frame design, incorporating the largest dimensioned shaft,” he says.

LSK square laminated frame DC motors, which have been designed by Leroy-Somer to the latest European standards for industrial requirements, have ratings from 2 kW to 750 kW. Leroy-Somer also produces non-standard motors, providing a range of power from 0.06 kW to 18.5 kW.

Vert Energy’s LSK DC range includes enclosed permanent magnet motors, enclosed wound motors, drip-proof wound motors and drip-proof, force-cooled wound motors.

These motors can be foot, flange or foot and flange mounted. Flanges are incorporated into the steel stator castings, giving a robust construction that eliminates vibrations. Four removable plates allow direct access to brushes for easy replacement, thus simplifying maintenance.

Leroy Somer’s advanced design of the DC motor incorporates cooling and ventilation systems that reduce wear and tear on the brush gear, by the elimination of dirty particles.

These motors, with a Class H insulation system, can operate at ambient temperatures of about 5 °C and 40 °C and are protected with a range of surface treatments that withstand harsh environments.

The quality of the winding, insulation and impregnation guarantees optimum performance, even in arduous conditions.

Optional features include flange adapters which enable the easy modification of motors to all types of situations, without the need for costly and time-consuming adjustments. Pressure switches monitor air flow to detect if the ventilation motor has stopped working.

Where there is little vertical space for installing a motor, a connection kit can be used to mount the standard forced cooling unit in an axial position. Transparent doors can be fitted to facilitate maintenance procedures like brush inspection, without having to remove inspection doors.

Leroy-Somer has developed an online configurator to assist in the selection of motors, brake motors or geared motors, combined with variable speed drives.

The modular concept of this range enables a continuous production line for the entire Leroy-Somer product range, thus reducing delivery times. Lead times for adapted motors are also significantly shortened.

Vert Energy offers a maintenance programme which ensures optimum performance of DC motors and significantly extends service life.

“Vert Energy is also the authorised sales and support partner for Allight Lighting towers, DEIF generator controls and API/Covrad GT Heat Transfer, as well as ASCO automatic transfer switches and Avtron and Froment load banks,” says Robertson.

The company’s service to the electro-mechanical power transmission sector, encompasses the supply of dependable products that combine high performance, energy efficiency, reduced downtime and extended service life, to meet the highest quality, safety and environmental standards.

A critical part of Vert Energy’s service is the availability throughout Africa, of factory and original equipment manufacturer trained technicians who cope efficiently with any electro-mechanical breakdown situation or routine preventive maintenance procedures.

Vert Energy’s new warehouse carries a substantial stockholding and also offers an assembly, spare parts, technical support and repair facility, to further strengthen the company’s service in Africa.