Kinder Australia’s K-MotorShield is a simple solution for keeping motors running in dusty environments.
Motors are problematic places for dust to gather on a busy bulk handling site. They’re often close to the action and have plenty of places for dirt, debris, and dust to build up.
This can have disastrous effects on the motor’s lifespan. The fins that draw heat away from the internal components are not designed to be clogged with foreign material. Without proper airflow, temperatures can rise beyond a point that is safe for the motor and can damage the insulation in the motor windings.
This can result in short-circuiting, arcing, and other electrical faults, potentially causing serious damage to the motor.
Sean Kinder, business development manager at Kinder Australia, said protection is key to reducing the likelihood of failure.
“Covering the motor is an easy way to stop dust and debris from accumulating,” he told ABHR Magazine.
“But sometimes sites will cover the motor with whatever they have lying around.
“Often, this is a piece of rubber – which helps stop the dust from getting into the motor but also acts as an insulator. Now you have a different problem, as the heat continues to build up and the same issues start occurring again.
“Kinder Australia provides a non-insulating cover that allows heat to escape and protects the motor from dust.”
The K-MotorShield motor cover is a durable, lightweight solution that can be quickly and easily installed on a motor.
Dirt and dust particles are pushed through the fins while heavy contaminants settle on top of the cover, not in the cooling fins. This can improve airflow by 140 per cent and keep bearings, windings, and brushes on drive motors clean and dust-free.
It is constructed from a corrosion-resistant composite material, providing a long service life.
Kinder said the K-MotorShield is popular in Australian paper mills to protect the motors.
“There is a lot of water involved in paper processing and the resulting pulp is a sticky material. It can build up and turn into a large block for cooling fins if it reaches a motor,” he said.
“Mine sites also use the K-MotorShield, especially in areas where material spillage is a possibility.”
The K-MotorShield has a ‘snap-on’ design, allowing it to fit easily on top of most motors. It is standardised for any NEMA and IEC frame size and can be customised to accommodate unique situations.
Kinder said the cover is a simple solution that keeps motors clean and extends their life.
“In bulk material handling operations, motors serve as the driving force behind essential machinery, making them invaluable assets. Protecting these assets from environmental debris ensures their prolonged lifespan, reduced downtime, and enhanced safety and compliance,” he said.
“It’s an effective and innovative solution. You can see the benefits immediately.”
“Kinder staff will also visit the site to see the equipment after installation to ensure everything is working to our standards.”
This article originally appeared in ABHR magazine May-2024 edition.