Cast iron vs Aluminium
Cast iron vs Aluminium
(OP)
Hello,
I would like to know which are the differences between cast iron and aluminium squirrel cage motors in terms of performance, environment withstand,...
When should be a cast iron motor used and not an aluminium motor?
Thanks.
I would like to know which are the differences between cast iron and aluminium squirrel cage motors in terms of performance, environment withstand,...
When should be a cast iron motor used and not an aluminium motor?
Thanks.





RE: Cast iron vs Aluminium
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(2B)+(2B)' ?
RE: Cast iron vs Aluminium
RE: Cast iron vs Aluminium
You will find aluminium motors are generally only in smaller frame sizes. I haven't seen one much larger than 3kW. They are usually a bit cheaper and easier to install (because they are lighter). However, they will corrode like crazy if left outdoors (they are made out of the cheapest scrap aluminium you can get - it tends to oxidise and then flake and go brittle). Seem to last pretty long if indoors. Don't expect to repair them - in fact, it's really not worth repairing anything small (under 30kW) anymore anyway (unless you are in a developing country where labour is cheaper).
Cast iron motors don't have any of these problems. Their frames are much stronger, but they are heavier and harder to install. They will last a lot longer if exposed to the elements, which is the main thing really.
Check the fan cowl on the motor - a lot of cast iron motors will have a tin or aluminium fan cowl and these only last about 5 years outdoors (well, longer in dryer areas). Here in Australia we can get what we call a "mine spec" motor, which has a cast iron fan cowl (amongst other things).
Oh, and don't put aluminum motors in a salty environment. Very small lifespan.
RE: Cast iron vs Aluminium
Keith Cress
kcress - http://www.flaminsystems.com
RE: Cast iron vs Aluminium
RE: Cast iron vs Aluminium
Acids in the Beverage industry, not just in the cleaning but in the drinks (e.g. Coca cola) will not only have a damaging result but also for the hygiene level (if important) due to the rough surface created on the motor.
And these applications are indoors usually.
However, this would also be true for cast iron, so the use of motors with the necessary coating is important.