New ATEX-certified geared motors

Louise Davis

WEG has unveiled new ATEX-certified geared motors in the WG20 series with output power up to 30kW and energy efficiency class up to IE3. The geared motors are certified in accordance with Directive 2014/34/EU as explosion-proof for zone 2 (gas; groups IIA, IIB and IIC) or zone 22 (dust; groups IIIA, IIIB and IIIC).

Explosion-proof WG20 geared motors are presently available with rated output power from 120W to 30kW. They are designed for voltages up to 690V, in frame sizes from IEC 63 to IEC 200. With the ongoing expansion of the WG20 series of geared motors to 18,000Nm, explosion-proof geared motors for the entire power range up to 75kW will be available in the near future. All these ATEX geared motors can be built with protection rating up to IP66 and are suitable for an ambient temperature range of -20 to +40°C. Another significant advantage is that the motors can also be operated with variable speed drives, subject to compliance with the specified driver parameters. The range of accessory modules, such as explosion-proof brakes and encoders, is constantly expanding.

Previously, explosion-proof geared motors were produced in the WEG Group by fitting IEC adapters and installing flange-mount motors (IEC B5) on the adapters. Now the motors are mounted directly. That creates technical advantages and eliminates the need for an adapter. Along with improving efficiency, it makes the geared motors physically shorter, saving valuable space. Along with explosion-proof geared motors, Watt Drive also modifies WEG IEC standard motors (design B3, B5 and B14) for use in ATEX zones 2 and 22.