HAZARDOUS AREAS n Replacement explosionproof extruder motor is delivered in just two weeks End-users wanting large explosionproof motors typically have to wait several months before they can be delivered because most suppliers build such machines from scratch. This was the dilemma faced by a plastics producer when it had to replace an existing extruder motor with ignition protection type Ex d (flameproof encapsulation) urgently. One of the few suppliers that could provide a suitable machine at short notice was the family-run German business, Menzel Elektromotoren. Working with the plastics company, it found that a size 1000 motor with type Ex ec (increased safety) ignition protection would satisfy the application’s hazardous zone requirements. Menzel chose a suitable three-phase squirrel-cage motor and adapted for the task and the installation site. The project hinged on upgrading the motor for zone 2 hazardous area operation with potentially explosive gas atmospheres, and getting it the necessary Atex certification. The motor was labelled II 3G Ex ec IIC T4 Gc. Its shaft height was 630mm lower than the original machine, so it was brought up to the correct centre height using a welded base. Because the new motor has four winding systems instead of the two of the old one, Menzel also made electrical modifications to allow it to operate with the existing frequency converter. It took only two weeks from the order for the new motor being placed, to its installation at the customer’s site. The replacement extruder motor was customised and certified in a fortnight
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