ABB has become the world’s first manufacturer to offer an IE6 Hyper Efficiency SynRM motor certified to ATEX and IECEx requirements for use in hazardous areas, with up to 60% lower energy losses.
The new increased safety motor is designed to help operators in energy-intensive industries reduce operating costs and carbon emissions while improving performance in demanding environments.
Based on ABB’s synchronous reluctance (SynRM) technology, the motor is free from magnets and rare earth materials. The company says it delivers up to 60% lower energy losses than standard IE3 induction motors widely used in Zones 1 and 2 hazardous areas. Target applications include pumps, fans and compressors operating in sectors such as chemicals, marine, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverage.
The IE6 SynRM motor is certified for use with variable speed drives, enabling efficient operation across the full speed range, including at partial loads. ABB said replacing a single IE3 motor with the new IE6 version could save €87,520 in energy costs over a 20-year operating life, while avoiding 157,540 kg of CO2 emissions. The company added that this could provide a payback period of approximately eight months.
“In its Energy Efficiency report 2025, the IEA highlights the pressing need to make sustainable technology available as an affordable choice. And that is central to ABB’s own Engineered to Outrun philosophy,” said Stefan Floeck, president of IEC LV Motors at ABB. “With the world’s first IE6 Hyper Efficiency SynRM motor for hazardous areas, we now have the ideal solution for customers who must drive down their operating expenses while meeting stringent sustainability targets.”
ABB said the new motor range starts at 110 kW, with IE5 versions available up to 90 kW. The company added that cooler running temperatures and improved loadability could also lower installation and maintenance costs in hazardous environments.
