New IE5 standard raises the bar for industrial energy efficiency

For industrial sites where pumps, fans, compressors and conveyors often run continuously, the change could have a significant impact on lifecycle energy costs. WEG, the global manufacturer of motors and drives, is supporting customers through the transition with an application-led portfolio that includes motors capable of meeting or exceeding IE5 efficiency levels, alongside engineering support to assess compatibility, payback and total cost of ownership (TCO).

The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)’s revised IEC 60034-30-1 standard provides a transparent framework for motor efficiency classification across international markets, making it easier to compare different technologies and applications. By defining minimum efficiency levels across a wide range of motor types, it establishes a consistent benchmark for manufacturers, engineers and end users. 

“As industrial energy demands continue to grow, the updated IE5 standard provides clearer direction for future motor development,” said Marcio Yoshikazu Ematsu, European marketing manager at WEG. “By combining improved efficiency benchmarks with practical guidance on implementation, the IEC 60034-30-1 standard supports industry in reducing energy consumption while maintaining performance, reliability and operational flexibility.”

Clearer guidance

The new standard introduces updated efficiency tables, clearer guidance on requirements between standard power ratings and practical insight into higher-efficiency motor technologies. It also enables more consistent global classification, making it easier to compare products, meet regional performance requirements and simplify specification, procurement and system design across multiple markets.

“WEG already manufactures and supplies motors that can exceed IE5,” added Ematsu. “Our portfolio spans the full range of IE efficiency classes. This is supported by technical expertise that helps customers evaluate potential energy savings, assess compatibility with existing installations and identify the most cost-effective upgrade path.”

Technologies already available on the market that are aligned with these higher efficiency levels include WEG’s W22 induction motor range. The W22 motor range has recently been extended with the W22 Prime, which delivers IE4 and IE5 efficiency while maintaining direct-on-line (DOL) operation and compatibility with standard frame sizes, supporting straightforward upgrades without additional system complexity. 

In addition, the W23 Sync+ and W23 Sync+ ULTRA motor range uses synchronous reluctance permanent magnet technology to achieve higher efficiency and power density, reducing losses in continuous-duty applications such as pumps, fans and compressors.

Long-term performance

For industry, IE5’s impact is closely tied to long-term performance. Motors in applications such as pumps, fans, compressors and conveyors often run continuously for years, so even small efficiency gains can significantly reduce energy use and TCO. 

Compared with IE3 motors, IE4 technologies can reduce energy losses by around 15 to 20 per cent, while IE5 technologies can deliver reductions of 30 to 40 per cent, depending on the application.

The standard also highlights that the highest efficiency class is not always the most appropriate solution for every application. Factors such as duty cycle, starting requirements, installation constraints and system integration must be carefully considered to ensure optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.

“Understanding how efficiency improvements translate into real operational savings is critical, particularly in applications where motors run continuously and energy consumption represents a significant proportion of lifecycle cost,” added Ematsu. “We support customers in aligning with IEC 60034-30-1 and related standards through a combination of compliant motor technologies and application-led engineering.”

The new IE5 classification also creates a clearer basis for technical discussions between manufacturers, specifiers and end users. Because efficiency can now be assessed more consistently across power ratings, frequencies and motor technologies, customers can compare upgrade options more accurately and select motors based on the realities of their application.

www.weg.net