ABB Launches IE6 Motor for Hazardous Industrial Areas

11 May 2026 CW Team

ABB has introduced what it claims is the world’s first IE6 Hyper-Efficiency motor certified for hazardous industrial environments under ATEX and IECEx standards.

The new Increased Safety motor is based on ABB’s synchronous reluctance (SynRM) technology and is designed without magnets or rare earth materials. According to the company, the motor reduces energy losses by up to 60 per cent compared to standard IE3 induction motors commonly used in hazardous areas.

The motor is intended for use in industries such as chemicals, marine, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals and food and beverage, where explosive gases, vapours or dust may be present.

ABB said the motor is certified for use with variable speed drives, enabling high efficiency across varying load conditions and making it suitable for pumps, fans and compressors.

Stefan Floeck, President IEC LV Motors, ABB, said the launch addresses growing demand for energy-efficient technologies that can help industries reduce operating costs and meet sustainability targets.

The new IE6 SynRM Increased Safety motor range starts from 110 kW, while IE5 variants are available up to 90 kW. ABB stated that the technology also offers lower maintenance requirements and improved operational reliability.

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