Oil-free drum motor

It was in 2010 that Interroll introduced its first oil-free drum motors. Since then, thousands have been installed, in particular in the food industry. The latest additions are drum motors based on the new and improved Interroll Drum Motor Platform that has been on the market since 2017.

Interroll says synchronous oil-free drum motors are by nature very efficient, which means less heat loss and a much higher power density.

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 said to be stronger and better performing. However, they require a frequency inverter, and speed and torque are slightly reduced compared to a standard synchronous motor lubricated with oil. High-speed applications are still possible if the belt pull force is sufficient. This is also true for low-speed applications. Typical oil-free motor applications include transportation and packaging of lightweight goods such as candy, chocolate or pralines.

No leakage issues

Food manufacturers who have to comply with certain restrictions regarding food contamination benefit 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, the drum motors have no leakage issue. The oil-free drum motor helps make 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, Interroll says the European Hygienic Engineering and Design Group (EHEDG) recommends the use of oil-free motors.