Three-phase electric motors

Find out the transition requirements for new Regulations coming in 2023

MEPS covers New Zealand new three-phase cage induction electric motors and three-phase cage induction electric motors incorporated into machines with:

• rated output ≥ 0.73kW & < 185kW,
• in 2, 4, 6 and 8-pole configurations, and
• voltages rated up to 1,100V (AC).

MEPS do not apply to:

• motors that are designed to operate submersed in a liquid (not including motors which are water proof),
• motors integral with the equipment that cannot be separated, for example some gear motors. If the motor is operable when removed, then it is considered to be within the regulations (electric motors in compressors and pumps may be included, please send EECA a cross section diagram of the compressor or pump),
• motors that run on different speeds by using switchgear to reconfigure the connection of windings (variable or multi-speed motors, that do not use frequency or voltage to control the speed),
• motors rated ‘S2’ (under IEC 60034-12) for short duty applications, such as hoists and roller doors, or
• rewound motors (except when the supplier claims it meets one of the efficiency levels in the standard)
• torque motors.

The MEPS requirement for three-phase electric motors is a minimum efficiency under test conditions.

The MEPS levels are listed in appendix A and appendix B in AS/NZS 1359.5:2004.

• AS/NZS 1359.5:2004: Rotating electrical machines—General requirements—Three-phase cage induction motors—High efficiency and minimum energy performance standards requirements.
• Test method A or test method B in AS/NZS 1359.5:2004: Rotating electrical machines—General requirements—Part 5: Three-phase cage induction motors—High efficiency and minimum energy performance standards requirements.

There are two distinct test methods, test method A or test method B in AS/NZS 1359.5:2004 specified in the regulations:

• Method A: As per requirements of AS/NZS 1359.5:2004 where measured in accordance with sections 5 to 7 of AS/NZS 1359.102.3:2000 or sections 4 to 6 of IEC 61972 or test method B in IEEE 112:2004.
• Method B: As per requirements in clauses 1,3 and 5 of AS/NZS 1359.102.1.1-1997 or sections 5,6 and 8 of IEC 60034-2-1.