ABB: New water-cooled motor a next-generation design

The HydroCool XT is equipped with provisions for ABB Ability smart sensor condition monitoring. Photo: ABB

ABB introduced the Baldor-Reliance HydroCool XT motor, which represents a new generation of water-cooled motors the company developed in response to market demands for improved technical features.

According to ABB, the HydroCool XT offers customers the combination of flexible design, low maintenance and reliable performance in tough environments. Aggregates and mining are among the ideal applications for the motor, the company says.

“The power- and torque-dense design of the HydroCool XT reduces its size, and since the cooling is built into the frame, there is no need for extra space around the motor for airflow,” says Matt Felt, global product manager at Baldor-Reliance Navy & Marine Motors. “The motor is quieter than comparable air-cooled motors, and it’s able to achieve high-efficiency ratings. These features result in a smaller physical footprint and lower overall operating costs when compared to similarly powered motors.”

The HydroCool XT is quiet, versatile and available with induction or permanent magnet rotor technology, ABB adds. It can achieve the highest level (IE5) efficiency rating for energy savings.

As ABB describes, water-jacket cooling offers higher thermal conductivity than air cooling, helping to extend motor life while eliminating the need for fans or air filters.

The HydroCool XT is available in four frame sizes – from 60 to 1,250 hp. Cooling efficiency is maintained even at lower speeds, ABB says, allowing the HydroCool XT to operate directly on line or as a variable-speed motor without derating or power loss. It’s ideal for constant torque applications, the company adds.

Additionally, the HydroCool XT is equipped with provisions for ABB Ability smart sensor condition monitoring to provide instant information on the health and performance of the motor.