What Is the Most Powerful Electric Motor in the World?

July 27, 2018

In Greek mythology, Zeus was the most powerful god. His lightning bolts were both feared and revered. But could his electrical powers match those of the most powerful electric motor in the world? The U.S. Navy is giving Zeus a run for his money. The god of thunder might need electric motor repair in Columbia, TN if he ever encountered this motor mammoth!

The Most Powerful Electric Motor in the World

A high temperature superconductor (HTS) developed by Northrop Grumman Corporation and tested by the U.S. Navy holds this title. It is the world’s first 36.5 megawatt (49,000 horsepower) HTS ship propulsion motor. Its capacity surpassed the Navy’s previous test record, doubling the rating. The HTS motor performs at 120 rpm and produces 2.9 million Newton-meters of torque. It weighs in at approximately 75 metric tons.

Its Purpose

Why would anyone need an electric motor of this size? It was developed for naval ships. The coils of wire are designed to take up less than half the space of conventional motors but carry 150 times the power. As a result, ships can be not only more powerful, but more fuel-efficient and able to carry more cargo, personnel or weapons.

This powerful system was created to demonstrate HTS motors’ abilities and pave the way for this technology to power all-electric ships and submarines for the Navy. It is designed specifically for the next generation of warships for the Navy. HTS motors can also be used in commercial and merchant vessels, such as cruise ships and gas tankers.

Its Creator

The Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) funded this massive project. It was built per a contract with the Office of Naval Research.

Its Cost

Is this an expensive endeavor? Yes. More than $100 million in Navy funds has been invested in the development of this technology. Big power costs big bucks.

Its Operation

HTS motors utilize fundamental motor technology, with key advances. The standard copper rotor coils are replaced with HTS rotor coils. These rotors are not subject to the stresses that conventional electric motors experience. With previous motors, the stress and heat were too much for the machinery to handle, and often resulted in the need for electric motor repair in Columbia, TN. This new technology allows operators to achieve the necessary thermal management required to safely achieve higher power.

Where Can I Learn More About Powerful Electric Motors?

If you’d like more information on electric motors and electric motor repair in Columbia, TN, contact the professionals at Action Electric Motor & Pump Repair. We have been a premier well pump repair service for the city of Columbia and the surrounding areas since 2006. We are a local family-owned and operated business dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional service and high-quality workmanship. We specialize in residential, commercial and industrial pump repair, as well as water treatment, well conditioning and well repair and replacement. Our team is happy to answer any questions you have. Reach out to us today with any inquiries or to get started on your next project.

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