[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 107 (Wednesday, June 3, 2020)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 34111-34118]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-11764]
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Proposed Rules
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 107 / Wednesday, June 3, 2020 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 34111]]
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
10 CFR Part 431
[EERE-2020-BT-TP-0011]
RIN 1904-AE62
Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Electric Motors
AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of
Energy.
ACTION: Request for information.
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SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy is soliciting public comment to
consider whether to amend DOE's test procedures for electric motors. To
inform interested parties and to facilitate this process, this document
identifies several issues concerning the current test procedures on
which comment is sought and invites public comment on any relevant
topic (including those that have not been specifically raised). While
the issues outlined in this document focus on how to address recent
industry testing standard updates and the potential clarification of
definitions and test settings for electric motors, information and data
regarding any additional topics relevant to potential test procedure
amendments are also sought, including methods to reduce regulatory
burden while ensuring the procedure's representativeness.
DATES: Written comments and information will be accepted on or before
July 20, 2020.
ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at http://www.regulations.gov. Follow
the instructions for submitting comments. Alternatively, interested
persons may submit comments, identified by docket number EERE-2020-BT-
TP-0011, by any of the following methods:
1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. Follow
the instructions for submitting comments.
2. Email: to [email protected]. Include docket number
EERE-2020-BT-TP-0011 in the subject line of the message.
3. Postal Mail: Appliance and Equipment Standards Program, U.S.
Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, Mailstop EE-5B,
1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone:
(202) 287-1445. If possible, please submit all items on a compact disc
(``CD''), in which case it is not necessary to include printed copies.
4. Hand Delivery/Courier: Appliance and Equipment Standards
Program, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, 950
L'Enfant Plaza SW, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20024. Telephone: (202)
287-1445. If possible, please submit all items on a CD, in which case
it is not necessary to include printed copies.
No telefacsimilies (``faxes'') will be accepted. For detailed
instructions on submitting comments and additional information on this
process, see section III of this document.
Docket: The docket for this activity, which includes Federal
Register notices, comments, and other supporting documents/materials,
is available for review at http://www.regulations.gov. All documents in
the docket are listed in the http://www.regulations.gov index. However,
some documents listed in the index, such as those containing
information that is exempt from public disclosure, may not be publicly
available.
The docket web page can be found at http://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2020-BT-TP-0011. The docket web page contains
instructions on how to access all documents, including public comments,
in the docket. See section III for information on how to submit
comments through http://www.regulations.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Jeremy Dommu, U.S. Department of
Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building
Technologies Office, EE-5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-9870. Email:
[email protected].
Mr. Michael Kido, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General
Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC, 20585-
0121. Telephone: (202) 586-8145. Email: [email protected].
For further information on how to submit a comment or review other
public comments and the docket, contact the Appliance and Equipment
Standards Program staff at (202) 287-1445 or by email:
[email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Table of Contents
I. Introduction
A. Authority and Background
B. Rulemaking History
II. Request for Information
A. Scope and Definitions
B. Test Procedure
1. Updates to Industry Standards
2. Temperature Rise Measurement Location
3. Rated Motor Horsepower
4. Rated Values Specified for Testing
C. Other Test Procedure Topics
III. Submission of Comments
I. Introduction
Electric motors are included in the list of ``covered equipment''
for which the Department of Energy (``DOE'') is authorized to establish
and amend energy conservation standards and test procedures. (42 U.S.C.
6311(1)(A)) DOE's test procedures for electric motors are prescribed at
Appendix B to Subpart B of 10 CFR part 431 (``Appendix B''). The
following sections discuss DOE's authority to establish and amend test
procedures for electric motors, as well as relevant background
information regarding DOE's consideration of test procedures for this
equipment.
A. Authority and Background
The Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended (``EPCA''),\1\
among other things, authorizes DOE to regulate the energy efficiency of
a number of consumer products and certain industrial equipment. (42
U.S.C. 6291-6317) Included within this authority are electric motors,
the subject of this RFI. (42 U.S.C. 6311(1)(A))
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\1\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute
as amended through America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018,
Public Law 115-270 (October 23, 2018).
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The energy conservation program under EPCA consists essentially of
four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation
standards, and (4) certification and enforcement
[[Page 34112]]
procedures. Relevant provisions of EPCA specifically include
definitions (42 U.S.C. 6311), energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C.
6313), test procedures (42 U.S.C. 6314), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C.
6315), and the authority to require information and reports from
manufacturers (42 U.S.C. 6316(a) and 42 U.S.C. 6296).
Federal energy efficiency requirements for covered equipment
established under EPCA generally supersede State laws and regulations
concerning energy conservation testing, labeling, and standards. (42
U.S.C. 6316(a) and (b); 42 U.S.C. 6297) DOE may, however, grant waivers
of Federal preemption for particular State laws or regulations, in
accordance with the procedures and other provisions of EPCA. (42 U.S.C.
6316(a))
The Federal testing requirements consist of test procedures that
manufacturers of covered equipment must use as the basis for: (1)
Certifying to DOE that their equipment complies with the applicable
energy conservation standards adopted pursuant to EPCA (42 U.S.C.
6316(a); 42 U.S.C. 6295(s)), and (2) making representations about the
efficiency of that equipment. (42 U.S.C. 6314(d)) Similarly, DOE must
use these test procedures to determine whether the equipment complies
with relevant standards promulgated under EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6316(a); 42
U.S.C. 6295(s))
Under 42 U.S.C. 6314, EPCA sets forth the criteria and procedures
DOE must follow when prescribing or amending test procedures for
covered equipment. EPCA requires that any test procedures prescribed or
amended under this section must be reasonably designed to produce test
results which reflect energy efficiency, energy use or estimated annual
operating cost of a given type of covered equipment during a
representative average use cycle and requires that test procedures not
be unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6314(a)(2)) If DOE
determines that a test procedure amendment is warranted, it must
publish proposed test procedures and offer the public an opportunity to
present oral and written comments on them. (42 U.S.C. 6314(b))
EPCA, pursuant to amendments made by the Energy Policy Act of 1992,
Public Law 102-486 (October 24, 1992), specifies that the test
procedures for electric motors subject to standards are those specified
in National Electrical Manufacturers Association (``NEMA'') Standards
Publication MG1-1987 and Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers (``IEEE'') Standard 112 Test Method B, as in effect on
October 24, 1992. (42 U.S.C. 6314(a)(5)(A)). If these test procedures
are amended, DOE must amend its test procedures to conform to such
amended test procedure requirements, unless DOE determines by rule,
published in the Federal Register and supported by clear and convincing
evidence, that to do so would not meet the statutory requirements
related to the test procedure representativeness and burden. (42 U.S.C.
6314(a)(5)(B)) As noted later in this document, these industry-based
procedures have been revised a number of times and DOE has amended its
regulations consistent with these changes.
EPCA also requires DOE to evaluate its test procedures at least
once every 7 years for each type of covered equipment, including
electric motors, to determine whether amended test procedures would
more accurately or fully comply with the requirements that test
procedures not be unduly burdensome to conduct but be reasonably
designed to produce test results reflecting energy efficiency, energy
use, and estimated operating costs during a representative average use
cycle of the equipment at issue. (42 U.S.C. 6314(a)(1)) In addition, if
the Secretary determines that a test procedure amendment is warranted,
the Secretary must propose amended test procedures (published in the
Federal Register) and afford interested persons an opportunity (of not
less than 45 days' duration) to present oral and written data, views,
and arguments on the proposed test procedures. (42 U.S.C. 6314(b)) If
DOE determines that test procedure revisions are not appropriate, DOE
must publish its determination not to amend the test procedures. (42
U.S.C. 6314(a)(1)(A)(ii))
DOE is publishing this RFI to collect data and information to
inform its decision in satisfaction of its obligations under EPCA.
B. Rulemaking History
DOE established test procedures for electric motors that referenced
NEMA MG1-1993 and IEEE 112-1996. 64 FR 54114 (October 5, 1999)
(``October 1999 final rule''). The October 1999 final rule also
incorporated by reference Canadian Standards Association (``CSA'')
Standard C390-93, Energy Efficiency Test Methods for Three-Phase
Induction Motors, which DOE found to be a widely recognized alternative
that was consistent with IEEE 112-1996. Id.
On May 4, 2012, DOE amended the test procedures for electric motors
consistent with its obligations under EPCA to incorporate the NEMA MG
1-2009 and the IEEE 112-2011 into its regulations. 77 FR 26608 (``May
2012 final rule''). The May 2012 final rule also updated the
regulations to reference the most current version of CSA C390. Id.
On December 13, 2013, DOE again amended its electric motor test
procedure by clarifying the test setup requirements for certain
electric motors. 78 FR 75962 (``December 2013 final rule''). DOE
explained that changes brought about by the Energy Independence and
Security Act of 2007 (Pub. L. 110-140 (December 19, 2007)) and the
American Energy Manufacturing Technical Corrections Act (Pub. L. 112-
210, Sec. 10 (December 18, 2012)) enabled DOE to consider an expanded
scope of electric motors for regulatory coverage. Id. at 78 FR 75965.
DOE determined that the motors covered by the expanded scope could be
tested using the testing methods provided in IEEE 112 (Test Method B)
and CSA C390-10 (which were both part of DOE's test procedure
regulations) to accurately measure their losses and determine their
energy efficiency. Id. However, some of these motors required
additional testing set-up instructions prior to testing, which DOE
established in the December 2013 final rule.\2\ Id.
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\2\ A 2011 version of NEMA MG 1 was released prior to the
publication of the December 2013 final rule. The updates from the
2009 version, however, did not affect the sections of NEMA MG-1
incorporated by reference in the DOE regulations. Subsequently, DOE
declined to incorporate by reference NEMA MG 1-2011. 78 FR 75962,
75963.
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DOE's test procedures for electric motors at 10 CFR part 431,
subpart B, Appendix B (``Appendix B'') currently incorporate by
reference NEMA MG 1-2009, IEEE 112-2004 Test Method B, and CSA Standard
C390-10. Appendix B also includes additional specifications necessary
for testing certain types of electric motors. 10 CFR part 431, subpart
B, Appendix B, Sec. 4.
On March 1, 2017, NEMA published NEMA MG 1-2016, Motors and
Generators. On February 14, 2018, IEEE published IEEE 112-2017, IEEE
Standard Test Procedure for Polyphase Induction Motors and Generators.
DOE subsequently proposed to amend the current test procedure
regulations for small electric motors and electric motors, which
included a full review of IEEE 112-2017. 84 FR 17004 (April 23, 2019)
(``April 2019 NOPR''). The relevant updates to the industry test
procedures (including NEMA MG 1-2016), in addition to potential
clarification of definitions and test settings for electric motors, are
discussed in the following section.
II. Request for Information
In the following sections, DOE has identified a variety of issues
on which
[[Page 34113]]
it seeks input on deciding whether amending its test procedures for
electric motors would (1) more accurately or fully comply with the
requirements in EPCA that test procedures be reasonably designed to
produce test results which reflect energy use during a representative
average use cycle, without being unduly burdensome to conduct (42
U.S.C. 6314(a)(2)); or (2) reduce testing burden. Specifically, DOE is
requesting comment on any opportunities to streamline and simplify
testing requirements for electric motors as well as information to help
inform DOE's related technical and economic analyses.
Further, DOE recently issued an RFI to seek more broadly
information on whether its test procedures are reasonably designed, as
required by EPCA, to produce results that measure the energy use or
efficiency of a product during a representative average use cycle or
period of use. 84 FR 9721 (March 18, 2019). DOE seeks comment on this
issue as it pertains to the test procedure for electric motors.
Additionally, DOE welcomes comments on other issues relevant to the
conduct of this process. In particular, DOE notes that under Executive
Order 13771, ``Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs,''
Executive Branch agencies such as DOE are directed to manage the costs
associated with the imposition of expenditures required to comply with
Federal regulations. See 82 FR 9339 (February 3, 2017). Consistent with
that Executive Order, DOE encourages the public to provide input on
measures DOE could take to lower the cost of its regulations applicable
to electric motors consistent with the requirements of EPCA.
A. Scope and Definitions
The term ``electric motor'' is defined as ``a machine that converts
electrical power into rotational mechanical power.'' 10 CFR 431.12.
Manufacturers are required to test those electric motors subject to
energy conservation standards according to the test procedure in
Appendix B.\3\ (See generally 42 U.S.C. 6314(a)(5)(A); see also the
introductory paragraph to 10 CFR part 431, subpart B, Appendix B)
Currently, energy conservation standards apply to a variety of
categories of electric motors provided that they meet the criteria
specified at 10 CFR 431.25(g). These categories of electric motors
include NEMA Design A motors,\4\ NEMA Design B motors,\5\ NEMA Design C
motors,\6\ and fire pump electric motors.\7\ See 10 CFR 431.25(h)-(j).
The detailed criteria specified under 10 CFR 431.25(g) specify that the
currently regulated motors:
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\3\ This RFI does not address small electric motors, which are
covered separately under 10 CFR part 431, subpart X. A small
electric motor is ``a NEMA general purpose alternating current
single-speed induction motor, built in a two-digit frame number
series in accordance with NEMA Standards Publication MG1-1987,
including IEC metric equivalent motors.'' 10 CFR 431.442.
\4\ ``NEMA Design A'' motor means a squirrel-cage motor that:
(1) Is designed to withstand full-voltage starting and developing
locked-rotor torque as shown in NEMA MG 1-2009, paragraph 12.38.1
(incorporated by reference, see Sec. 431.15); (2) Has pull-up
torque not less than the values shown in NEMA MG 1-2009, paragraph
12.40.1; (3) Has breakdown torque not less than the values shown in
NEMA MG 1-2009, paragraph 12.39.1; (4) Has a locked-rotor current
higher than the values shown in NEMA MG 1-2009, paragraph 12.35.1
for 60 hertz and NEMA MG 1-2009, paragraph 12.35.2 for 50 hertz; and
(5) Has a slip at rated load of less than 5 percent for motors with
fewer than 10 poles. 10 CFR 430.12.
\5\ ``NEMA Design B motor'' means a squirrel-cage motor that is:
(1) Designed to withstand full-voltage starting; (2) Develops
locked-rotor, breakdown, and pull-up torques adequate for general
application as specified in sections 12.38, 12.39 and 12.40 of NEMA
MG1-2009 (incorporated by reference, see Sec. 431.15); (3) Draws
locked-rotor current not to exceed the values shown in section
12.35.1 for 60 hertz and 12.35.2 for 50 hertz of NEMA MG1-2009; and
(4) Has a slip at rated load of less than 5 percent for motors with
fewer than 10 poles. Id.
\6\ ``NEMA Design C'' motor means a squirrel-cage motor that:
(1) Is Designed to withstand full-voltage starting and developing
locked-rotor torque for high-torque applications up to the values
shown in NEMA MG1-2009, paragraph 12.38.2 (incorporated by
reference, see Sec. 431.15); (2) Has pull-up torque not less than
the values shown in NEMA MG1-2009, paragraph 12.40.2; (3) Has
breakdown torque not less than the values shown in NEMA MG1-2009,
paragraph 12.39.2; (4) Has a locked-rotor current not to exceed the
values shown in NEMA MG1-2009, paragraphs 12.35.1 for 60 hertz and
12.35.2 for 50 hertz; and (5) Has a slip at rated load of less than
5 percent. Id.
\7\ ``Fire pump electric motor'' means an electric motor,
including any IEC-equivalent motor that meets the requirements of
section 9.5 of NFPA 20. Id.
(1) Are single-speed, induction motors;
(2) Are rated for continuous duty (MG 1) operation or for duty
type S1 (IEC)
(3) Contain a squirrel-cage (MG 1) or cage (IEC) rotor;
(4) Operate on polyphase alternating current 60-hertz sinusoidal
line power;
(5) Are rated 600 volts or less;
(6) Have a 2-, 4-, 6-, or 8-pole configuration;
(7) Are built in a three-digit or four-digit NEMA frame size (or
IEC metric equivalent), including those designs between two
consecutive NEMA frame sizes (or IEC metric equivalent), or an
enclosed 56 NEMA frame size (or IEC metric equivalent);
(8) Produce at least one horsepower (0.746 kW) but not greater
than 500 horsepower (373 kW), and
(9) Meet all of the performance requirements of one of the
following motor types: A NEMA Design A, B, or C motor or an IEC
Design N or H motor.
10 CFR 431.25(g).
DOE exempted certain categories of motors from having to satisfy
any standards after determining that the referenced industry test
procedures do not provide a standardized test method for determining
the energy efficiency of these motor configurations.\8\ 79 FR 30934
(May 29, 2014); see also, 78 FR 75962, 75974, 75987-75989). The
currently exempted motor categories are:
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\8\ DOE notes that, while these motor configurations are not
currently subject to any energy conservation standards, they remain
within the Department's scope of covered equipment.
Air-over electric motors;
Component sets of an electric motor;
Liquid-cooled electric motors;
Submersible electric motors; and
Inverter-only electric motors.
10 CFR 431.25(l)
Definitions for terms related to the Federal test method for
electric motors are provided at 10 CFR 431.12. A number of these
definitions incorporate references to specific sections of NEMA MG 1-
2009 to characterize the construction and operation of different
categories of electric motors. DOE is considering revising these
definitions to update its current NEMA MG 1 references to the most
recent edition of that standard, NEMA MG 1-2016. These reference
updates would align DOE's regulatory definitions with current industry
practice and the revisions under consideration for the electric motors
test procedure at Appendix B (see section II.B.1).
Twelve definitions at 10 CFR 431.12 reference the NEMA MG 1-2009
standard, of which the following five include references to sections of
NEMA MG 1 that have not changed between the 2009 and 2016 publications
of the standard: ``electric motor with encapsulated windings,''
``electric motor with moisture resistant windings,'' ``electric motor
with sealed windings,'' ``general purpose electric motor (subtype I),''
and ``general purpose electric motor (subtype II).''
Conversely, the definitions in 10 CFR 431.12 for ``definite purpose
motor,'' ``definite purpose electric motor,'' ``general purpose
electric motor,'' ``NEMA Design A motor,'' ``NEMA Design B motor,''
``NEMA Design C motor,'' and ``nominal full-load efficiency'' reference
provisions of NEMA MG 1 that have changed between the 2009 and 2016
versions. These changes are discussed in the following paragraphs.
The definitions for ``definite purpose motor,'' ``definite purpose
electric motor,'' and ``general purpose electric motor'' at 10 CFR
431.12 reference
[[Page 34114]]
paragraph 14.3, ``Unusual Service Conditions,'' of NEMA MG 1-2009.
Paragraph 14.3 of NEMA MG 1 provides a list of service conditions that
may affect the construction or operation of a motor. The NEMA MG 1-2016
standard adds two conditions to the NEMA MG 1-2009 standard: ``exposure
to a coupling mass that is greater than 10% of rotor weight and/or has
a center of gravity that is beyond the shaft extension'' and ``exposure
to a coupling or coupling/coupling guard combination which could
produce a negative pressure at the drive end seal.'' DOE notes that the
regulatory definition for ``general purpose electric motor'' also
references paragraph 14.2, ``Usual service conditions,'' of NEMA MG 1-
2009, but unlike paragraph 14.3, section 14.2 remains unchanged in NEMA
MG 1-2016. Prior to June 1, 2016, DOE's energy conservation standards
for electric motors differentiated between general purpose electric
motors (for which standards applied) and definite or special purpose
electric motors (for which standards did not apply). 10 CFR 431.25(a)-
(d) and (f). For electric motors manufactured on or after June 1, 2016,
DOE's energy conservation standards no longer differentiated between
these previous broad categories of general purpose and definite or
special purpose. Consequently, DOE's standards are now differentiated
according to the criteria listed at 10 CFR 431.25(g) and NEMA and IEC
Design categories. 10 CFR 431.25(h)-(i). Therefore, the updates to
these definitions are not expected to change the applicability of test
procedures or energy conservation standards for electric motors
manufactured on or after June 1, 2016.
The definitions for ``NEMA Design A motor,'' ``NEMA Design B
motor,'' and ``NEMA Design C motor'' at 10 CFR 431.12 reference tables
of locked-rotor current in sections 12.35.1 and 12.35.2 of NEMA MG 1-
2009. NEMA MG 1-2016 revises these tables by adding a column for
``Locked-Rotor kVA Code'' and a footnote regarding a tolerance that may
be applied to the locked-rotor current values based on the associated
Locked-Rotor kVA Code.\9\ Section 10.37 of NEMA MG 1-2016 provides the
applicable range of kVA per horsepower for each locked-rotor kVA code
that would be used to calculate the locked-rotor current tolerances.
These definitions also reference other sections in NEMA MG 1-2009, each
of which remains unchanged in the NEMA MG 1-2016 standard. The addition
of the column for ``Locked-Rotor kVA Code'' is not expected to impact
the applicability of test procedures or energy conservation standards
for electric motors. Further, NEMA MG 1-2016's addition of the footnote
regarding a tolerance that may be applied to the maximum locked-rotor
current values is a clarification of the existing tolerance presented
in section 10.37 of NEMA MG1-2009, which remains unchanged in NEMA MG1-
2016, and would also not impact the scope of electric motors that are
subject to energy conservation standards and test procedures.
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\9\ Locked-Rotor kVA Code is a letter which appears on the
nameplate of an alternating-current motor to show its range of
locked-rotor kilo-volt-ampere (kVA) per horsepower. The letter
designations for locked rotor kVA per horsepower are given in
Section 10.37 of NEMA MG 1-2016. For example, the letter ``N''
corresponds to a range of locked rotor kVA per horsepower between
11.2 and 12.5.
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The definition for ``nominal full-load efficiency'' at 10 CFR
431.12 references Table 12-10 of NEMA MG 1-2009, which provides a list
of nominal efficiencies and associated minimum motor efficiencies based
on a 20 percent loss difference. Table 12-10 in NEMA MG 1-2009 lists
nominal efficiency ratings ranging from 50.5 to 99.0, while Table 12-10
in NEMA MG 1-2016 lists nominal efficiency ratings ranging from 34.5 to
99.0. The nominal efficiency ratings (and associated minimum
efficiencies) in the range of 50.5 to 99.0 did not change between the
NEMA MG1-2009 and NEMA MG1-2016 versions of the standard. The nominal
full-load efficiency requirements specified by the energy conservation
standards for electric motors at 10 CFR 431.25 are efficiency values
ranging from 74.0 to 96.2; therefore, the addition of nominal
efficiency ratings ranging from 34.5 to 50.5 in the NEMA MG 1-2016
version of Table 12-10 will not impact the applicability of test
procedures or energy conservation standards for electric motors.
Issue 1: DOE requests comment on the 2016 updates to NEMA MG 1 that
relate to the electric motor definitions in 10 CFR 431.12.
Specifically, DOE requests information on how these revisions would
impact the applicability of test procedures and energy conservation
standards for electric motors.
Issue 2: DOE requests comment on whether any other definitions
should be modified or added to 10 CFR 431.12 to provide additional
detail or direction in the application of the test procedure for
electric motors.
DOE also notes that IEC standard 60034-12, published on November
23, 2016, allows the use of a new nomenclature for certain electric
motors that are already covered by DOE's current standards. As an
example, IEC Design N and IEC Design H motors that meet a ``premium
efficiency'' attribute are permitted to be designated with an ``E''
(i.e. ``NE'' and ``HE''). The ``premium efficiency'' attribute
generally aligns with the current DOE standards prescribed at 10 CFR
431.25. In DOE's view, these ``NE'' and ``HE'' motors are already
addressed by the definitions and standards that DOE currently has in
place regarding ``N'' and ``H'' motors. See 10 CFR 431.12 (defining the
terms ``IEC Design H motor'' and ``IEC Design N motors'') and 10 CFR
431.25(g)-(i) and (l) (establishing the efficiency standards related to
Design N and H motors and their applicable scope). This view is also
held by NEMA, which asserted in separate communications to DOE that
``E''-designated motors are drop-in replacements for their ``non-E''-
designated counterparts. See Letter from NEMA to DOE (March 26, 2018)
and Supplemental Letter from NEMA to DOE (August 23, 2019). (Both
letters have been filed in the docket.) To ensure the accuracy of its
understanding, DOE is seeking comment as to whether its understanding
of the new nomenclature is correct.
Issue 3: DOE requests comment on whether a Design NE or Design HE
motor is distinguishable in performance (aside from energy efficiency)
from a Design N or Design H motor, respectively, such that the ``E''-
designated motor merits treatment as a separate motor type. If so, why?
If not, why not?
B. Test Procedure
1. Updates to Industry Standards
DOE has reviewed each of the industry standards that are currently
incorporated by reference as test methods for determining the energy
efficiency of electric motors. Since publication of the December 2013
final rule, IEEE 112-2004 and NEMA MG 1-2009 have been revised, and CSA
C390-10 has been reaffirmed, as listed in Table II-1. The following is
a review of the relevant revisions to IEEE 112-2004 and NEMA MG 1-2009.
[[Page 34115]]
Table II-1--Updated Industry Standards
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Existing reference Updated version Type of update
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IEEE 112-2004.......................... IEEE 112-2017.................. Revision.
CSA 390-10............................. CSA 390-10 (R2015)............. Reaffirmed.
NEMA MG 1-2009......................... NEMA MG 1-2016................. Revision.
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a. IEEE 112
In the April 2019 NOPR DOE proposed to incorporate by reference
IEEE 112-2017 for both small electric motors and electric motors. 84 FR
17004. Specifically, for electric motors, DOE has proposed to
incorporate IEEE 112-2017 Test Method B as an alternative to IEEE 112-
2004 Test Method B, and requested comment on this proposal. 84 FR
17004, 17011-17012. DOE tentatively determined that this proposal would
harmonize the permitted test methods under subpart B of 10 CFR part 431
and align measurement and instrumentation requirements with recent
industry practice. 84 FR 17004, 17011-17012.
b. NEMA MG 1
The test procedure for electric motors specified at Appendix B
requires that efficiency and losses be determined in accordance with
NEMA MG 1-2009, paragraph 12.58.1, ``Determination of Motor Efficiency
and Losses.'' The text of paragraph 12.58.1 was modified in the
subsequent revisions to NEMA MG 1-2009. Notably, paragraph 12.58.1 in
the 2016 revision of MG 1 specifies an additional industry standard,
IEC 60034-2-1, for calculating the efficiency of horizontal polyphase
squirrel-cage motors rated 1 to 500 horsepower. Further discussion on
IEC 60034-2-1 is provided in the following section II.B.1.c of this
RFI.
c. IEC 60034-2-1
In a November 2017 notice, DOE sought comment regarding petitions
from NEMA and Underwriters Laboratory (``UL'') requesting that DOE
incorporate IEC 60034-2-1:2014 Method 2-1-1B \10\ as an additional
alternative test method to those already referenced in DOE's
regulations for determining the energy efficiency of certain electric
motors and small electric motors. 82 FR 50844 (November 2, 2017). With
regard to the electric motors test procedure, NEMA and UL's petition
requested that DOE incorporate IEC 60034-2-1:2014 Method 2-1-1B as an
alternative to IEEE 112-2004 Test Method B and CSA C390-10, which are
currently referenced in Appendix B. (NEMA, Docket EERE-2017-BT-TP-
0047,\11\ No. 28.2 at p.1; UL, Docket EERE-2017-BT-TP-0047, No. 29.1 at
p.1)
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\10\ IEC 60034-2-1:2014 Method 2-1-1B (2014), ``Rotating
Electrical Machines--Part 2-1: Standard methods for determining
losses and efficiency from tests (excluding machines for traction
vehicles),'' ``Summation of losses, additional load losses according
to the method of residual loss.''
\11\ Docket EERE-2017-BT-TP-0047 is available at https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2017-BT-TP-0047.
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DOE reviewed Method 2-1-1B from the IEC 60034-2-1:2014 standard in
the April 2019 NOPR and initially concluded that the standard would
provide comparable energy efficiency results to the current required
test standards (IEEE 112 and CSA C390). 84 FR 17004, 17013.
Accordingly, in the April 2019 NOPR DOE proposed to incorporate by
reference IEC 60034-2-1:2014 Method 2-1-1B as an alternative to the
currently incorporated industry testing standards IEEE 112-2004 Test
Method B and CSA C390-10, and requested comment on this proposal. Id.
2. Temperature Rise Measurement Location
The test method for measuring electric motor nominal full-load
efficiency prescribed under Appendix B specifies that efficiency and
losses are determined in accordance with paragraph 12.58.1 of NEMA MG1-
2009, and either CSA C390-10 or IEEE 112-2004 Test Method B. See 10 CFR
part 431, subpart B, Appendix B, Sec. 2. CSA 390-10 and IEEE 112-2004
both require the motor to be loaded to the rated full load and operated
until thermal equilibrium is reached. See CSA C390-10, Sec. 7.1.3 and
IEEE 112-2004, Sec. 5.8.4.4. This segment of the efficiency test is
known as the ``heat-run test.''
Section 7.1.3 of CSA C390-10 provides the test instructions for the
heat-run test, and states that the temperature used to establish
thermal equilibrium is determined using the temperature measurement
devices specified in section 7.1.2 of that standard. Section 7.1.2.2 of
CSA C390-10 explicitly specifies the permissible locations for
installing the temperature measurement devices when conducting the
heat-run test.
Section 5.8.4.4 of IEEE 112-2004 specifies how to terminate the
heat-run test. These instructions provide that the motor is operated
until the temperature rises are constant, but unlike CSA C390-10, IEEE
112-2004 does not explicitly indicate the locations where these
temperatures must be measured. Instead, Section 5.8.4.3 of IEEE 112-
2004 provides a list of locations on the motor at which temperature
measurement devices must be equipped, but does not specify which
temperature measurement device must be used to establish the condition
of thermal equilibrium in the heat-run test. The same requirements are
provided in Section 5.9.4.4 of IEEE 112-2017, the latest version of the
industry standard.
Issue 4: DOE requests comment on whether the test instructions in
IEEE 112-2004 Test Method B and/or IEEE 112-2017 Test Method B provide
sufficient detail regarding placement of temperature measurement
devices for establishing thermal equilibrium in the heat-run test.
Specifically, DOE seeks comment, including comment based on testing
experience, regarding potential locations for measurement to establish
thermal equilibrium. DOE is also interested in detailed information on
any testing burden, including cost, associated with measuring at the
various locations.
3. Rated Motor Horsepower
Nominal full-load efficiency, the metric for energy conservation
standards for electric motors, is defined as a representative value of
efficiency selected from the ``nominal efficiency'' column of Table 12-
10 of NEMA MG 1-2009, that is not greater than the average full-load
efficiency of a population of motors of the same design. See 10 CFR
431.12. ``Average full-load efficiency'' is defined as ``. . . the
ratio (expressed as a percentage) of the motor's useful power output to
its total power input when the motor is operated at its full rated
load, rated voltage, and rated frequency.'' Id. Typically, a rated load
represents a power output expected from the motor (e.g., a horsepower
value on the nameplate or a manufacturer declared rated motor
horsepower). The industry testing standards discussed in section II.B.1
of this RFI do not provide a method to determine the full rated load of
the tested unit. Rather, the standards rely on a manufacturer-specified
output power, which is
[[Page 34116]]
usually listed on a motor's nameplate in terms of horsepower (i.e., the
rated motor horsepower).
Rated motor horsepower is generally not an intrinsic, observable
motor property, and motors are usually capable of operating both above
and below the rated motor horsepower. For example, a motor that is
rated at 1 hp is also capable of delivering 0.75 hp, but likely with a
different speed, torque, and efficiency than those of when it is
delivering at its rated 1 hp. The output power of the motor depends on
the load and the design of the motor. Therefore, the load point (or
horsepower) at which the motor must be tested is not an intrinsic
parameter to the motor, but rather a parameter that must be defined or
specified. The test's load point (or horsepower) is relevant to
efficiency testing because the efficiency of an electric motor varies
according to load.
While the ``nominal full-load efficiency definition'' relies on the
definition of ``average full-load efficiency'' (and in turn, ``rated
load''), DOE regulations do not explicitly address how to determine the
rated load and rated motor horsepower of an electric motor.
Accordingly, as part of the test procedure evaluation, DOE is
considering whether to define the term ``rated motor horsepower'' and
whether defining the term would provide for more accurate comparisons
of similarly rated motors from different manufacturers. In addition,
DOE is considering additional changes to address the relationship
between the term ``rated motor horsepower'' to ``rated load,'' as
discussed in section II.B.4.b of this RFI.
As with a recent proposed amendment to the test procedure for small
electric motors, DOE is considering defining rated motor horsepower to
be based on the breakdown torque of an electric motor, which is a
directly measurable quantity. See 84 FR 17004, 17014-17015. Breakdown
torque is defined in section 1.50 of NEMA MG 1-2016 as the maximum
torque that the motor will develop with rated voltage and frequency
applied without an abrupt drop in speed,\12\ and is typically measured
in accordance with Section 7, ``Other performance tests,'' of IEEE
Standard 112-2017.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\12\ In concept, breakdown torque describes the maximum torque
the motor can develop without slowing down and stalling. The maximum
torque over the entire speed range could occur at a different
condition (e.g., the motor start-up, zero speed condition) than the
breakdown condition. Therefore, breakdown torque corresponds to a
local maximum torque (on a plot of torque versus speed) that is
nearest to the rated torque. NEMA MG 1-2016 does not quantify what
would constitute ``an abrupt drop in speed,'' but the phrase
corresponds to the expectation that the motor will slow down or
stall if the load increases and indicates that minor reductions in
speed observed due to measurement sensitivities are not considered.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
NEMA MG1-2016 requires that the rated horsepower be established by
identifying the horsepower that corresponds to the appropriate value of
breakdown torque, established in section 12.37 and section 12.39 of
NEMA MG1-2016, for general-purpose polyphase 2-digit frame (e.g. 56-
frame) size electric motors and Design A, B, and C polyphase 3- and 4-
digit frame size electric motors, respectively (e.g. 215). While
section 12.37 applies to general purpose polyphase 2-digit frame size
electric motors as written, DOE is considering whether section 12.37 of
NEMA MG 1-2016 could apply to all 2-digit frame size electric motors
within the DOE scope (as detailed in section II.A of this RFI) such
that DOE can define rated motor horsepower based on breakdown torque,
as defined in NEMA MG 1-2016. DOE would need to consider how rated
motor horsepower should be determined in the cases of special purpose
and definite purpose 2-digit frame size electric motors within the DOE
scope.
Issue 5: DOE requests comment on how industry currently determines
rated motor horsepower of an electric motor. Specifically, DOE requests
comment on whether the methods described in sections 12.37 and 12.39 of
NEMA MG1-2016 reflect how industry currently determines rated motor
horsepower of an electric motor.
Issue 6: DOE requests comment on the whether there is a need to
define the term ``rated motor horsepower,'' and the feasibility of
establishing such a definition. DOE requests comment and data regarding
how rated motor horsepower determined as contemplated in the preceding
discussion would compare to the rated motor horsepower currently
declared by manufacturers. Additionally, DOE requests comment on how to
determine the horsepower of a special or definite purpose motor with
breakdown torque that is not expressly characterized by Table 10-5 of
NEMA MG 1-2016. DOE also requests comment on any other method that may
be used to verify the manufacturer declared horsepower of an electric
motor. DOE is also interested in detailed information on any test
burden, including cost, associated with the method as contemplated by
DOE, or other methods as may be suggested.
4. Rated Values Specified for Testing
DOE is evaluating whether clarifying several other values used for
testing electric motors is warranted. As noted previously, the
definition of average full load efficiency at 10 CFR 431.12 specifies
that the full load efficiency of a motor is determined when the motor
operates at the rated frequency, rated load, and rated voltage.
Additionally, industry standards refer to ``rated'' values, which are
expected to be known or provided (e.g., on the nameplate). However,
``rated frequency,'' ``rated load,'' and ``rated voltage'' are not
defined in subpart B of 10 CFR part 431. Similar to proposed amendments
to the test procedure for small electric motors, DOE is considering
whether additional instruction regarding these terms could improve
clarity and further ensure all motors of a given specification are
tested using the same settings. See 84 FR 17004, 17017-17018.
a. Rated Frequency
``Rated frequency'' is a term commonly used by industry standards
developed for testing electric motors (e.g., section 6.1 in IEEE 112-
2004, and section 6.1 in CSA C390-10). The test procedures and energy
conservation standards established under EPCA apply to motors
distributed in commerce within the United States. Within the United
States, electricity is supplied at 60 hertz (``Hz''). However, electric
motors could be designed to operate at frequencies in addition to 60 Hz
(e.g., motors designed to operate at either 60 or 50 Hz, which is used
in other parts of the world).
Some electric motors subject to 10 CFR 431.16 are marketed as
capable of operating at either of these two frequencies and could
include in their marketing information data regarding motor performance
at both frequencies (e.g., 60 and 50 Hz). In this case, it could be
unclear at which frequency the test should be performed. DOE is
considering defining the term ``rated frequency'' as 60 Hz to expressly
specify this test requirement.
b. Rated Load
The term ``rated load'' \13\ is used in industry standards to
specify a loading point at which to test a motor (e.g., sections 5.6
and 6.1 in IEEE 112-2004, and section 6.1 in CSA C390-10). Typically, a
rated load represents a power output expected from the motor (e.g., a
horsepower value on the nameplate or a manufacturer declared rated
motor horsepower). The rated load
[[Page 34117]]
will have a corresponding rated speed and rated torque. DOE is
considering defining the term ``rated load'' as ``the rated motor
horsepower of an electric motor'' to clarify this test requirement.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\13\ Also referred to as ``full rated load,'' ``rated full-
load,'' or ``full-load.''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
c. Rated Voltage
The term ``rated voltage'' is used in industry standards to specify
the voltage supplied to the motor under test (e.g., section 6.1 in IEEE
112-2004, and section 6.1 in CSA C390-10). The test procedures
referenced in Appendix B require a basic model to be tested at the
rated voltage, without specifying what to do when a manufacturer
includes multiple rated voltages on the nameplate and marketing
materials. DOE is considering specifying the input voltage required for
testing when motors are rated for use at multiple voltages. Options for
this specification could include testing only at the lowest rated
voltage, testing only at the highest rated voltage, or testing at all
rated voltages. Alternatively, similar to what was proposed for small
electric motors, DOE is considering allowing manufacturers to test and
certify motors at any rated voltage, provided that the tested input
voltage setting is listed on the certification report. See 84 FR 17004,
17018.
In addition, DOE has found that some motor nameplates are labeled
with a voltage rating including a range of values, such as ``208-230/
460 volts,'' or other qualifiers, such as ``230/460V, usable at 208V.''
DOE is considering how rated voltage for testing should be determined
in these cases.
Issue 7: DOE requests comment on the potential definitions of
``rated frequency'' and ``rated load'' for electric motors. DOE
requests comment and data regarding how the discussed definitions would
impact the current test results. DOE also requests comment on the input
voltage setting(s) that should be used during testing. Specifically,
DOE requests test data that demonstrates how motor efficiency varies at
different input voltage settings.
C. Use of an Amended Test Procedure
If required only for the evaluation and issuance of updated
efficiency standards, use of a modified test procedure, were DOE to
finalize such a change, typically would not be required until the
implementation date of updated standards. Section 8(c) of appendix A 10
CFR part 430 subpart C. Moreover, were DOE to initiate a rulemaking to
establish methodologies used to evaluate proposed energy conservation
standards, such a rulemaking would be finalized at least 180 days prior
to publication of a NOPR proposing new or amended energy conservation
standards. See 10 CFR part 430, appendix A, subpart C, sec. 8(d)-(e).
D. Other Test Procedure Topics
In addition to the issues identified earlier in this document, DOE
welcomes comment on any other aspect of the current test procedures for
electric motors found at 10 CFR part 431, subpart B. As noted earlier,
DOE recently issued an RFI to seek more information on whether its test
procedures are reasonably designed to produce results that measure the
energy use or efficiency of a product during a representative average
use cycle or period of use. 84 FR 9721 (March 18, 2019).
Issue 8: DOE seeks comment on whether its test procedures for
electric motors are reasonably designed, as required by EPCA, to
produce results that measure the energy use or efficiency of a product
during a representative average use cycle or period of use.
Issue 9: DOE requests comments on whether potential amendments
based on the issues discussed would result in a test procedure that is
unduly burdensome to conduct, particularly in light of any new products
on the market that have appeared since the last test procedure update.
DOE's established practice is to adopt industry standards as DOE
test procedures unless such methodology would be unduly burdensome to
conduct or would not produce test results that reflect the energy
efficiency, energy use, water use (as specified in EPCA) or estimated
operating costs of that product during a representative average use
cycle or period of use. Section 8(c) of appendix A 10 CFR part 430
subpart C. In cases where the industry standard does not meet EPCA
statutory criteria for test procedures DOE will make modifications
through the rulemaking process to these standards as the DOE test
procedure. DOE recognizes that adopting industry standards with
modifications imposes a burden on industry (i.e., manufacturers face
increased costs if the DOE modifications require different testing
equipment or facilities).
Issue 10: To the extent that potential amendments based on the
issues discussed in this document would result in a procedure that is,
in fact, unduly burdensome to conduct, DOE seeks information on whether
an existing private sector-developed test procedure would be more
appropriate. DOE requests comment on the benefits and burdens of
adopting any industry/voluntary consensus-based or other appropriate
test procedure, without modification.
Issue 11: Additionally, DOE requests comment on whether the
existing DOE test procedure limits a manufacturer's ability to provide
consumers with additional features in the electric motors that they
purchase. DOE particularly seeks information on how the DOE test
procedures could be amended to reduce the cost of new or additional
features and make it more likely that electric motors include such
features while satisfying EPCA.
Issue 12: DOE also requests comments on any potential amendments to
the existing test procedures that would address impacts on
manufacturers, including small businesses.
Finally, DOE published an RFI on the emerging smart technology
appliance and equipment market. 83 FR 46886 (September 17, 2018)
(``September 2019 RFI''). In that RFI, DOE sought information to better
understand market trends and issues in the emerging market for
appliances and commercial equipment that incorporate smart technology.
DOE's intent in issuing the RFI was to ensure that DOE did not
inadvertently impede such innovation in fulfilling its statutory
obligations in setting efficiency standards for covered products and
equipment.
Issue 13: DOE seeks, as part of this RFI, comments, data and
information on the issues presented in the September 2018 RFI as they
may be applicable to electric motors.
III. Submission of Comments
DOE invites all interested parties to submit in writing by July 20,
2020, comments and information on matters addressed in this notice and
on other matters relevant to DOE's consideration of amended test
procedures for electric motors. These comments and information will aid
in the development of a test procedure NOPR for electric motors if DOE
determines that amended test procedures may be appropriate for this
equipment.
Submitting comments via http://www.regulations.gov. The http://www.regulations.gov web page will require you to provide your name and
contact information. Your contact information will be viewable to DOE
Building Technologies staff only. Your contact information will not be
publicly viewable except for your first and last names, organization
name (if any), and submitter representative name (if any). If your
comment is not processed properly because of technical difficulties,
DOE will use this information to contact you. If DOE
[[Page 34118]]
cannot read your comment due to technical difficulties and cannot
contact you for clarification, DOE may not be able to consider your
comment.
However, your contact information will be publicly viewable if you
include it in the comment or in any documents attached to your comment.
Any information that you do not want to be publicly viewable should not
be included in your comment, nor in any document attached to your
comment. Persons viewing comments will see only first and last names,
organization names, correspondence containing comments, and any
documents submitted with the comments.
Do not submit to http://www.regulations.gov information for which
disclosure is restricted by statute, such as trade secrets and
commercial or financial information (hereinafter referred to as
Confidential Business Information (``CBI'')). Comments submitted
through http://www.regulations.gov cannot be claimed as CBI. Comments
received through the website will waive any CBI claims for the
information submitted. For information on submitting CBI, see the
Confidential Business Information section.
DOE processes submissions made through http://www.regulations.gov
before posting. Normally, comments will be posted within a few days of
being submitted. However, if large volumes of comments are being
processed simultaneously, your comment may not be viewable for up to
several weeks. Please keep the comment tracking number that http://www.regulations.gov provides after you have successfully uploaded your
comment.
Submitting comments via email, hand delivery/courier, or postal
mail. Comments and documents submitted via email, hand delivery/
courier, or postal mail also will be posted to http://www.regulations.gov. If you do not want your personal contact
information to be publicly viewable, do not include it in your comment
or any accompanying documents. Instead, provide your contact
information on a cover letter. Include your first and last names, email
address, telephone number, and optional mailing address. The cover
letter will not be publicly viewable as long as it does not include any
comments.
Include contact information each time you submit comments, data,
documents, and other information to DOE. If you submit via postal mail
or hand delivery/courier, please provide all items on a CD, if
feasible. It is not necessary to submit printed copies. No facsimiles
(faxes) will be accepted.
Comments, data, and other information submitted to DOE
electronically should be provided in PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or
Excel, WordPerfect, or text (ASCII) file format. Provide documents that
are not secured, written in English and free of any defects or viruses.
Documents should not contain special characters or any form of
encryption and, if possible, they should carry the electronic signature
of the author.
Campaign form letters. Please submit campaign form letters by the
originating organization in batches of between 50 to 500 form letters
per PDF or as one form letter with a list of supporters' names compiled
into one or more PDFs. This reduces comment processing and posting
time.
Confidential Business Information. According to 10 CFR 1004.11, any
person submitting information that he or she believes to be
confidential and exempt by law from public disclosure should submit via
email, postal mail, or hand delivery/courier two well-marked copies:
One copy of the document marked confidential including all the
information believed to be confidential, and one copy of the document
marked ``non-confidential'' with the information believed to be
confidential deleted. Submit these documents via email or on a CD, if
feasible. DOE will make its own determination about the confidential
status of the information and treat it according to its determination.
It is DOE's policy that all comments may be included in the public
docket, without change and as received, including any personal
information provided in the comments (except information deemed to be
exempt from public disclosure).
DOE considers public participation to be a very important part of
the process for developing test procedures and energy conservation
standards. DOE actively encourages the participation and interaction of
the public during the comment period in each stage of this process.
Interactions with and between members of the public provide a balanced
discussion of the issues and assist DOE in the process. Anyone who
wishes to be added to the DOE mailing list to receive future notices
and information about this process should contact Appliance and
Equipment Standards Program staff at (202) 287-1445 or via email at
[email protected].
Signing Authority
This document of the Department of Energy was signed on May 8,
2020, by Alexander N. Fitzsimmons, Deputy Assistant Secretary for
Energy Efficiency, pursuant to delegated authority from the Secretary
of Energy. That document with the original signature and date is
maintained by DOE. For administrative purposes only, and in compliance
with requirements of the Office of the Federal Register, the
undersigned DOE Federal Register Liaison Officer has been authorized to
sign and submit the document in electronic format for publication, as
an official document of the Department of Energy. This administrative
process in no way alters the legal effect of this document upon
publication in the Federal Register.
Signed in Washington, DC, on May 8, 2020.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy.
[FR Doc. 2020-11764 Filed 6-2-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P