Rare-Earth Mineral Supply Spurs Alternative Motor Technologies

China’s move to corner the market for rare-earth minerals (REMs) has prompted manufacturers of low voltage industrial motors to adopt alternative technologies that reduce or eliminate the use of these materials, spurring new growth in the motors market. The global market for industrial IE4 Super Premium Efficiency low voltage motors will reach an estimated $418.2 million by the end of 2015, up 153 percent from $165.4 million in 2012, according to “The World Market for Low Voltage Motors – 2013 Edition,” an upcoming report from IHS IMS Research, recently acquired by IHS Inc. Emerging lower-cost alternatives to traditional permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) that achieve IE4 levels of efficiency have added momentum to this niche market. For the full report, visit the website below: