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Vertical Motor Load Testing at MENZEL

MENZEL now offers vertical motor load testing: realistic, manufacturer-independent, and compliant with international standards.

Vertically installed electric motors are subject to specific mechanical and thermal loads that differ significantly from those in horizontal configurations. Gravity acts directly on the bearings, shaft, and, where applicable, the brush gear, affecting wear, vibration behavior, and thermal performance. In many applications – including pumps, mills, and marine propulsion systems – vertical installation is standard. Testing under realistic conditions is therefore essential.

To meet these requirements, MENZEL now offers vertical load testing in addition to its proven horizontal test procedures in our in-house load test field in Hennigsdorf near Berlin, Germany. Tests are carried out under actual mounting conditions and enable comprehensive evaluation of both mechanical and electrical properties – regardless of motor type or manufacturer.

⇓⇓  A video of a vertical testing at our load test field can be found at the bottom of this page.  ⇓⇓

“Previously, every V1 motor had to be converted for horizontal testing. Vertical testing eliminates the need for this complex reassembly, significantly speeding up our processes while increasing the reliability of the test results.”

Daniel Krengel, Engineering and Testing Department

Precise measurement methods and customized test adapters for the highest quality

In addition to standard electrical measurements, vertical testing includes analysis of bearing loads, bearing temperature rise, axial and radial force distribution, and vibration behavior. A key focus lies on the influence of vertical orientation on bearing performance. We manufacture all required adapters and clamping fixtures in-house, tailored to a wide range of motor designs.

Power is supplied via precisely controlled frequency converters, allowing various load conditions to be simulated. Test sequences are operated manually to ensure flexibility for different motor configurations. All measurement data is recorded, evaluated, and documented using our proprietary test software in accordance with IEC / IEEE standards – enabling transparent and traceable analysis.

Technical equipment of our test facility at a glance

  • Test voltages: up to 13,800 V
  • Power supply with frequencies up to 67 Hz
  • Electrical power: up to 2300 kVA (higher power ratings using the dual-frequency method in accordance with IEC60034-29)
  • Max. shaft power of 1800 kW for mains and system tests in the speed range from 500 to 3600 rpm

View MENZEL Test field capacities and services

Vertical Load Testing for Electric Motors: Operational Reliability Without Reassembly Effort

Vertical load testing provides reliable insights into the operational safety of electric motors, supports the evaluation of repair work, and helps prevent failures during operation. It plays a key role in quality assurance and enables targeted maintenance planning for vertically mounted drives.

In conventional test procedures, V1 motors must be reconfigured for horizontal testing and then returned to their vertical mounting position afterward. This conversion process is time-consuming, increases manual workload, and introduces the risk of assembly errors or mechanical damage. It also significantly extends testing durations, complicating overall test logistics.

By using an angle gearbox in vertical load testing, MENZEL eliminates the need for this conversion entirely. Motors can be tested directly in their actual installation orientation, saving both time and cost while delivering more realistic and reliable test results. This approach enables accurate assessment of mechanical and electrical performance under true operating conditions, without detours or compromises in the test setup.

Would you like to test your motor under real installation conditions? Contact us for individual consultation and scheduling!
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Vertical Motor Load Testing at MENZEL