FAQ ON SOMAR
How does Integra Work?
In simple terms Integra works by matching motor torque to load torque by sensing the motors load and reducing the motors terminal voltage to a level where the motor produces the correct torque requirement for the driven load. This has the effect of reducing the motors iron (magnetising) losses (Kvar) and saving energy. The soft start feature within the Integra Compact and PML range works by steplessly increasing the terminal voltage to the motor until the motor provides enough torque to accelerate the load to full speed. This has the effect of drastically reducing the motors starting current, usually by 50%.
Can Integra be fitted too more than one motor at a time?
Integra is an intelligent device which calculates the torque needed by the motor to do the work its doing. This means that it needs clean direct signals from the motor it is driving. So the answer is no you cannot connect more than motor to Integra for optimisation.
You can however connect more than one motor to a Integra as a soft starter, where you are simply wanting to start the motors but the total Kw of all motors must be added and a Integra selected according to the total.
Which types of motor can benefit from Integra?
An AC induction motor
What are the parameters for energy saving?
Applications should be constant speed and variable load and run for at least 8 Hrs per day. Typically, the motor should run at 50% load or less for at least 50% of the time to achieve good savings. For further details see document; Taking and Proving Measurements
Can Integra be fitted to a slip-ring motor?
Yes, the slip-ring motor is part of the AC Induction motor family. In most cases the existing method of starting must be retained. For further details see document; Installing Integra on Slip Ring Motors
Which types of motor cannot benefit from Integra?
- Integra cannot be fitted to the following types of motor:
- Any DC Motor
- Universal Motors, which is motors fitted with a commutator and brushes.
- Stepper Motors.
- Switch Reluctance Motors.
- Variable Voltage Motors.
- Synchronous Motors.
Can Integra be fitted on motors with individual power factor correction capacitors?
Yes, Integra will still provide a soft start feature. However, it is very unlikely Integra will provide further savings as motor power factor will already be high. Most modern systems have power factor correction at the common point of coupling, that is where the supply is metered not at the moto
Will Integra meet the CE directives?
Yes, Integra meets both the EMC and Low Voltage directives
Can Integra be fitted to high efficiency motors
Integra can be fitted to high efficiency motors however, the level of savings will be less than a standard cage motor due to the motors inherent higher efficiency. The impact of the motors iron losses will always be less on a high efficiency Motor. However Integra will accept the fixed savings and reduce the iron loss even further as the load decreases.
What happens if Integra fails
In the rare circumstances of unit failure Integra can be bypassed using a switch or contacto
Will Integra work on poor power supplies?
We presently have Integra units performing arduous tasks in many African countries as well as India and Pakistan without undue problems.
What is the present range of Integra units?
The Integra Compact is available in 10 models ranging between 2.2 and 55kW at 208 to 440V. The Integra PMLV2 is available ranging between 75 and 1450kW at 208 to 1100V.
How is Integra sized?
To accurately size Integra the following information is needed.- Motor kW Rating.
- Supply Voltage and Frequency.
- Motor Current in Amps.
- Ambient Temperature.
