European guidelines

Summary of the new European guidelines for the efficiency factor of standard motors, pumps and wet rotor circulation pumps

In the next few years, the European Union is introducing three new guidelines in stages, to increase the efficiency factor of standard motors, pumps and wet rotor circulation pumps. One of these stipulates an increase in the efficiency of standard motors (IE1 to IE3), the second ensures that only pumps can be sold that demonstrate a minimum efficiency index (MEI), and the third guarantees that wet rotor circulation pumps do not exceed a specific energy efficiency index (EEI). All these new measures serve one objective – decreasing energy consumption by increasing the efficiency of equipment.

To counteract the increasing use of energy and the CO2 emissions associated with this, the EU has analysed which devices in particular use a large amount of energy. The items of equipment identified in this study use a significant amount of total energy. The EU is thereby endeavouring to improve the efficiency of this equipment via new standards and guidelines. This also includes standard motors and pumps.

Standard motors (IE1, IE2, IE3)

The new international standard, IEC 60034-30-2008, defines the efficiency factor of standard motors. In Europe, regulation (EU) no. 640/2009 applies. The new efficiency factor categories run from IE1 to IE3. The factor IE2 was introduced as mandatory on 16/06/2011. IE3 will apply from 01/01/2015, or an IE2 motor with frequency converter is to be used. From 01/01/2017, the specification of motors that must fulfil IE3 will be extended downwards. Motors from 0.75kW will therefore have to demonstrate IE3 efficiency factors.

IEC 60034-30-2008
EU Regulation 640/2009

This graph clearly depicts approximately which efficiency factor categories correspond to one another. In Europe the categories are EFF and IE, while in North America the NEMA categories apply.

Looking at this graph, you may think that the differences are not great. Viewed across all motors used in Europe, however, there is a huge savings potential, which corresponds to the output of several AKWs.

Pumps (MEI)

In the near future, water pumps will have to exceed a minimum efficiency index (MEI). This regulation will be tightened up in two stages. However, the deadlines shown in the graph are not yet definitive. This working sheet concerns standard rotary pumps, block pumps, inline pumps, high pressure pumps and underwater pumps.

Working Document on with regard to ecodesign requirements for water pumps

Wet rotor circulation pumps (EEI)

From 01/1/2013 the energy efficiency index (EEI) of external wet rotor circulation pumps must not exceed a value of 0.27.
From 01/08/2015 the energy efficiency index (EEI) of external wet rotor pumps and wet rotor circulation pumps integrated into products must not exceed a value of 0.23.

Drinking water circulation pumps do not come under the eco-design guidelines. However, Biral already offers high-efficiency, energy-saving pumps for this purpose.

Regulation (EU) no. 641/2009
Guideline 2005/32/EU

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