Challenge: Urgent replacement in a challenging environment
On board a ship operating off the coast of Brazil, a high-power-density pump drive motor suffered an unplanned failure. Due to the safety-critical function of the pump, a short-term replacement solution was urgently required. The motor originally installed did not fully meet the specific requirements for marine operation, particularly with regard to mechanical mounting, environmental influences, and long-term durability under corrosive conditions.
Consequently, the replacement motor had to comply with the regulations and certification requirements of the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) to guarantee standard-compliant and reliable operation in harsh maritime environments. The main technical challenges included adapting the design to the limited space on board, ensuring the required IP55 protection class, and designing the cooling system for continuous operation at elevated ambient temperatures. In addition, there was considerable time pressure, as the delivery and implementation time had to be reduced to a minimum in order to minimize unplanned downtime. The schedule was further tightened by the fact that the technical testing, acceptance, and certification of the motor had to be carried out on site in Brazil.
Solution: ABS conformity testing to ensure safety standards
Menzel UK modified a robust three-phase squirrel cage motor to the IM B35 design, specifically designed for use as a pump drive on board the ship. The customization of the motor housing enabled direct replacement of the existing unit and seamless integration into the existing pump system without the need for costly or time-consuming structural modifications. The motor design was specifically tailored to maritime operating conditions, whereby the motor achieved IP55 protection against dust and water jets and was designed with IC 411 cooling to ensure reliable heat dissipation and safe continuous operation. Due to the high urgency, Menzel UK implemented an accelerated manufacturing, testing, and acceptance process. This enabled the motor to be manufactured, comprehensively tested, and certified within a week. In addition, complete testing and certification was carried out in accordance with the specifications of the ABS, confirming its suitability for use in demanding offshore conditions off the Brazilian coast. This fully certified solution, which was available at short notice, minimized the ship's downtime and ensured operational continuity for the customer.
Technical Data
- Motor Type: MEBKGR355XD-04
- Rated Power: 588 kW
- Rated Voltage: 440 V
- Frequency: 60 Hz
- Rated Speed: 1,789 min⁻¹
- Number of Poles: 4
- Frame Type: IM 2001 (IM B35)
- Protection Class: IP 55
- Cooling Type: IC 411
- Weight: 2,880 kg
Our Expertise: Your Advantage
This project exemplifies how MENZEL’s deep engineering knowledge and flexible production capabilities translate directly into advantages for you as our customer. By delivering a customized, marine-ready motor that fits your existing equipment footprint, we eliminate the need for costly retrofitting onboard your vessels. Our proficiency in obtaining rapid, project-critical certifications like ABS ensures you receive a motor that not only meets but exceeds safety and operational requirements for offshore environments. The expedited manufacturing and logistics pipeline demonstrate how MENZEL prioritizes your urgent operational needs, reducing downtime so you can maintain continuous, reliable marine service.
If you require a technically specialized motor adapted to demanding environmental conditions, coupled with accelerated delivery and certification services, MENZEL is the partner who ensures your project’s success. Do you face similar marine application challenges or need a rapid, custom-engineered motor solution for critical pumps or other drives? Speak directly with our engineers today to design a solution that keeps your operations running smoothly and safely.
