ABB has introduced the world’s first IE6 Hyper-Efficiency motor certified to ATEX and IECEx requirements for use in hazardous areas. The new IE6 Increased safety motor is based on ABB’s magnet- and rare earth-free synchronous reluctance (SynRM) technology and offers up to 60 per cent lower energy losses than the IE3 induction motors commonly used in Zones 1 and 2.

The motor enables operators to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in industries where gas, vapour or dust may be present, including chemicals, marine, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverage.

The IE6 SynRM Increased safety motor is certified for use with variable speed drives (VSDs), allowing accurate control and high efficiency across the full speed range, including partial loads. It is positioned as an upgrade for standard IE3 induction motors used in pumps, fans and compressors.

Over a typical 20-year service life, switching one motor to IE6 can deliver energy savings of €87,520, with an eight-month payback period and 157,540 kg of CO2 avoided. This is equivalent to 37 petrol-powered passenger cars driven for a year.

“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 IEC LV Motors, 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.”

The new IE6 SynRM Increased safety motor covers ratings from 110 kW, while IE5 versions are available for up to 90 kW. Along with improved reliability and reduced maintenance, SynRM technology enables a more cost-effective installation.

In Zone 1, cooler operation can allow the use of an Increased safety SynRM motor where a Flameproof motor with a special enclosure would traditionally be used. In Zone 2, the improved loadability of SynRM motors enables more power from the same size as an equivalent induction motor, which could allow a smaller, lower-cost motor to perform the same duty.

ABB’s IE6 and IE5 SynRM technology forms part of its broad portfolio of IEC LV motors for hazardous areas, with induction alternatives available up to IE4 efficiency level. These motors combine robust construction, high energy efficiency and reliable operation to deliver certified safety in demanding environments.