• SKF India Limited

Drive Solution, Oil & Contact Free

SKF has launched a new magnetic system, an oil- and contact-free Drive Solution for centrifugal compressors in chillers. Combining a high-speed permanent magnet motor and active magnetic bearings with integrated controls, the magnetic system can operate with variable speed drives from various manufacturers to deliver energy savings of at least 10% versus conventional centrifugal compressor designs. In addition, the system’s vibration- and nearly friction-free performance capabilities enable extremely quiet operation. Electromagnets levitate the compressor shaft, allowing it to rotate without contact. By eliminating the mechanical contact and the losses that occur with oil-lubricated bearings, the magnetic system from SKF reduces energy use and costs significantly. By eliminating the need for oil lubrication, the system also improves heat transfer efficiency in the evaporator and condenser. The permanent magnet motor at the heart of this SKF solution is more energy-efficient than induction motors at full and partial loads, and offers a higher power factor/lower current draw. It also operates with a smaller size variable speed drive than induction motors.