The demand for energy-efficient and efficiency-optimized drives is increasing worldwide. The international standard IEC 60034-30 "Efficiency classifications of three-phase squirrel-cage motors (IE code)" uniformly regulates the efficiency classes and the legal requirements for the energy efficiency of low-voltage three-phase motors (0.75-375 kW, 50/60Hz, 2/4/6-pole). The standardized energy efficiency classes refer to three-phase asynchronous motors with squirrel-cage rotors. The standard specifies the following five energy efficiency classes. They are marked with IE = International Efficiency.
- IE1 standard efficiency
- IE2 High efficiency
- IE3 Premium efficiency
- IE4 Super Premium
- IE5 Ultra Premium
The classification depends on the efficiency and nominal load and is listed on the nameplate.
According to ErP 2011, all newly manufactured motors should meet at least IE2. With ErP 2017, motors with a rated output power of 0.75-375k W must meet at least IE3, IE2 motors may only be used in combination with speed control or special applications.