Rockwell to develop high-efficiency motor-drives with Infinitum

Published: 15 September, 2023

Rockwell Automation and Infinitum, the Texas-based creator of high-efficiency air-core motors, have signed an exclusive agreement to jointly develop and distribute a new class of high-efficiency, integrated low-voltage drive and motor technology that, they say, will “significantly” save energy and cut costs for industrial customers, while helping them to become more sustainable.

Rockwell will combine its PowerFlex drive technology with Infinitum’s high-efficiency Aircore EC motor system. This package will help users to reduce their carbon footprints with a motor system that is 50% smaller and lighter, uses 66% less copper, and consumes 10% less energy than traditional iron-core motors.

The integrated motor-drives will be available in late 2024 exclusively via Rockwell and its partners.

“We’ve long recognised the benefits of Infinitum’s integrated motor and drive system because of its class-leading energy efficiency, sustainability, and ease of operations,” says Barry Elliott, vice-president and general manager of Power Control at Rockwell. “We’re excited about the powerful impact that our new joint solution will have on improving sustainability, energy-efficiency, and productivity for our customers around the world.”

Infinitum’s patented air-core motors with PCB stators offer superior performance in half the weight and size, at a fraction of the carbon footprint of traditional motors, making them the world’s most efficient for their weight. The motors open up sustainable design opportunities for smaller, lighter and quieter machines, while also saving energy and reducing waste.

Rockwell and Infinitum have collaborated since 2021, when Rockwell made an initial investment in Infinitum as part of the company’s Series C funding.

An exploded view of Infinitum’s high-efficiency air-core motor technology

“We’re excited to extend our successful partnership with Rockwell Automation,” says Infinitum’s founder and CEO, Ben Schuler. “This agreement opens new customer channels for our sustainable motors that can power the world with less.

“Working with Rockwell will enable a direct and widespread impact on industrial companies, reducing electricity consumption and increasing sustainability for this energy-intensive sector,” he adds.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), electric motors consume around 40% of the electricity consumed globally, and nearly 70% for industrial companies.

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