Interroll launched a renewed version of its oil-free drum motors, first introduced by the company back in 2010. The new version of the oil-free drum motor is based on the improved Interroll Drum Motor platform, that has been on the market since 2017.
Synchronous oil-free drum motors are by nature very efficient, which means less heat losses and a much higher power density, as opposed to asynchronous oil-free drum motors which are prone to overheating and power reduction and therefore loss in torque. Compared to standard drum motors, the oil-free motor’s performance is only minimally impacted by the different type of lubrication. Also, compared to a standard asynchronous motor, oil-free synchronous motors are stronger and better performing. But they require a frequency inverter and speed and torque are slightly reduced compared to a standard synchronous motor lubricated with oil. However, high-speed applications are still possible if the belt pull force is sufficient. This is also true for low-speed applications.
Oil-free motors are a proven solution for many applications, in particular the food industry, for example for transportation and packaging of lightweight goods such as candy, chocolate or pralines. Food manufacturers who have to comply with certain restrictions regarding food contamination benefit indeed from this new option. Oil-free drum motors can be used for any application where the belt moves slowly (i.e., when the production process is in steps and accuracy is of paramount importance, like portioning and cutting for instance).
When installed correctly, Interroll Drum Motors have no leakage issue, an essential requirement in sensitive production processes. The oil-free drum motor makes the entire production flow safer as it eliminates any potential risk of oil contamination. It works well in cool temperatures, which are often a requirement in the food manufacturing sector. In certain industries such as fish processing, the European Hygienic Engineering and Design Group (EHEDG) recommends the use of oil-free motors.