How to Decide Whether to Repair or Replace your Electric Motor?

In the EASA report “The Effect of Repair/Rewinding on Motor Efficiency”, a special section at the end is devoted to the question of whether it is better for you to repair or replace your existing electric motor. 

Here are 6 high-level questions you can ask to quickly decide which option might be best for you.

The “Repair-replace” Business Model

The process kicks-off the moment a motor fails.

Question #1 – Is the motor suitable for the application in which it failed?  If the answer is no then investigate replacing it with a suitable motor and you are done.  But if the answer is yes, then….

Question #2 – What is the condition of the stator core?  If the answer to that question is that there is significant damage or high losses, then ask yourself if the cost to repair is greater than the cost to replace? 

a) If that answer is no, then repair and you are done.  If the answer is yes, then ask yourself if replacement funds and motors are available, and if the replacement lead times are acceptable?  If those answers are no then you should repair.  If those answers are yes then you should replace.  You are done. 

b) But if the answer is that the condition of the stator core is OK, then...

Question #3 – Has a catastrophic failure occurred, or is there evidence of prior catastrophic failure?

a) If the answer is yes, then repeat #2a above and you are done. 

b) If the answer is no, then….

Question #4 – Is the rotor damaged, or is there severe damage to other mechanical parts? 

a) If the answer is yes, then repeat #2a above and you are done. 

b) If the answer is no, then….

Question #5, is it an EPACT/EFF1 motor? 

a) If the answer is yes, then repeat #2a above and you are done. 

b) If the answer is no, then….

Question 6, is the return on investment of EPACT/EFF1 acceptable?

a) If the answer is yes, then replace the motor.

b) If the answer is no, repair the motor

Ready to Repair an Electric Motor?

Be prepared.  Our team of experts are motor-only focused, assuring the highest quality repair work.  Click here to learn more.

Is Replacing Your Motor the Answer?

Be prepared. Our team of experts are well-versed in motor selection and configuration for a wide array of applications, featuring in-stock OEM motors up to 2000 HP from Baldor/ Reliance and Toshiba available for delivery 24/7/365.  Click here to learn more.

Need Assistance?

Of course, there may be other mitigating factors to consider and that is why RSAW stands ready to assist you 24/7 with the resources and expertise you need to get your operations up and running quickly, and keep them running.  Contact us today.