Increased Scope of Coverage for Electric Motors, 17577-17582 [2011-7440]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 61 / Wednesday, March 30, 2011 / Proposed Rules passage of time; and (7) why disclosure of the information would be contrary to the public interest. V. Approval of the Office of the Secretary The Secretary of Energy has approved publication of this NOPM. Issued in Washington, DC, on March 24, 2011. Kathleen B. Hogan, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Office of Technology Development, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. [FR Doc. 2011–7452 Filed 3–29–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6450–01–P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY 10 CFR Part 431 [Docket Number EERE–2010–BT–STD– 0027] RIN 1904–AC28 Increased Scope of Coverage for Electric Motors Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of Energy. ACTION: Request for information (RFI). AGENCY: The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE or the Department) seeks certain information to help inform its current rulemaking to set energy conservation standards for electric motors. Specifically, DOE seeks information to assist DOE in determining whether to develop energy conservation standards for certain types of electric motors that are currently unregulated by any standards. Should DOE receive sufficient information supporting the inclusion of these motor types, DOE will consider including these motor types in the electric motors standards rulemaking. DATES: Written comments and information are requested on or before April 19, 2011. ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using the Federal eRulemaking Portal at https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. Alternatively, interested persons may submit comments, identified by docket number EERE–2010–BT–STD–0027, by any of the following methods: • E-mail: ElecMotors–2010–STD– 0027@ee.doe.gov. Include docket number EERE–2010–BT–STD–0027 and/or RIN 1904–AC28 in the subject line of the message. • Mail: Ms. Brenda Edwards, U.S. Department of Energy, Building WReier-Aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:09 Mar 29, 2011 Jkt 223001 Technologies Program, Mailstop EE–2J, Revisions to Energy Efficiency Enforcement Regulations, EERE–2010– BT–STD–0027, 1000 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20585– 0121. Phone: (202) 586–2945. Please submit one signed paper original. • Hand Delivery/Courier: Ms. Brenda Edwards, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Program, 6th Floor, 950 L’Enfant Plaza, SW., Washington, DC 20024. Phone: (202) 586–2945. Please submit one signed paper original. Instructions: All submissions received must include the agency name and docket number or RIN for this rulemaking. Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents, or comments received, go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal at https:// www.regulations.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. James Raba, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building Technologies Program, EE–2J, 1000 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20585–0121, (202) 586– 8654, e-mail: Jim.Raba@ee.doe.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Authority and Background: DOE intends to publish a final rule determining whether to amend the current energy conservation standards for electric motors. On September 28, 2010, DOE published a notice of availability of the ‘‘Energy Conservation Standards Rulemaking Framework Document for Electric Motors’’ (Framework Document), which describes the procedural and analytical approaches DOE anticipates using in its evaluation. 75 FR 59657. DOE must publish a final rule determining whether to amend the electric motors standards by December 19, 2012. (42 U.S.C. 6313(b)(4)(B)). The current energy conservation standards for electric motors, as set forth in the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA 2007) amendments to the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (ECPA), establish energy conservation standards for two types of general purpose electric motors: (1) Subtype I, and (2) subtype II. (42 U.S.C. 6313(b)(2)) These broad categories include various types of motors, such as the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Design B motors rated from 1 to 500 horsepower, NEMA Design A and C motors rated from 1 to 200 horsepower, vertical solid shaft motors and closecoupled pump motors. These standards do not apply to vertical hollow shaft PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 17577 motors, integral shafted partial motors, brake motors, or NEMA Design A motors between 200 and 500 horsepower, among other motor types. This is so because these types of electric motors do not meet currently prescribed definitions for general purpose electric motor (subtype I) and general purpose electric motor (subtype II), in that they are not general purpose motors and cannot be used in most general purpose applications. (42 U.S.C. 6311(13)(A)– (B); 10 CFR 431.12). During the Framework Document comment period, energy efficiency advocates (the Appliance Standards Awareness Project (ASAP) and the American Council for an EnergyEfficient Economy (ACEEE)), manufacturers (NEMA and Baldor), and utilities (the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), Southern California Gas Company (SCGC), San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E), and Southern California Edison (SCE)) urged DOE to consider including additional motor types currently without energy conservation standards in DOE’s analyses and establishing such standards. (ASAP/NEMA, No. 12 at p. 1; ACEEE, No. 10 at p. 1; Baldor, No. 8 at p. 2; PG&E/SCGC/SDG&E/SCE, No. 11 at p. 1) 1 In the commenters’ view, this approach would more effectively increase energy savings than setting more stringent standards for the electric motors that are currently being examined as part of the energy conservation standards rulemaking that DOE has initiated. See 75 FR 59657 (September 28, 2010). These parties also asserted that expanding the scope of DOE’s current efforts, along with specially tailored exemptions for certain types of electric motors,would enable DOE to simplify its compliance and enforcement efforts. (ASAP/NEMA, No. 12 at p. 1–2; ACEEE, No. 10 at p. 1) In light of these comments, DOE requests information regarding definite purpose and special purpose motors, including the additional motor types that DOE describes in Table 1 and Table 2. DOE is considering including definite and special purpose motors in the electric motors standards rulemaking. 1 Notations of this form appear throughout this document and identify statements made in written comments or at public hearings that DOE has received and has included in the docket for this rulemaking. For example, ‘‘NEMA, No. 12 at p. 7’’ refers to a comment: (1) From the National Electrical Manufacturers Association; (2) in document number 12 in the docket of this rulemaking; and (3) appearing on page 7 of the submission, while ‘‘Baldor, Framework Public Meeting Transcript, p.126’’ refers to a comment: (1) From Baldor Electric Company; (2) in the transcript for the public meeting on the Framework document; and (3) appearing on page 126 of the transcript. E:\FR\FM\30MRP1.SGM 30MRP1 17578 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 61 / Wednesday, March 30, 2011 / Proposed Rules Although DOE is particularly interested in information on the specific motor types identified in comments received in response to the Framework Document, commenters are welcome to provide information similar to the information sought for any additional motor type that the commenter believes should be included in this rulemaking and the reasons for their inclusion as part of the standards rulemaking. Description: Public comments are sought from interested parties regarding establishment of energy conservation standards for several types of definite and special purpose motors for which EISA 2007 did not provide energy conservation standards. DOE has the authority to set energy conservation standards for a wider range of electric motors than those classified as general purpose electric motors (e.g., definite or special purpose motors). The Energy Policy Act of 1992 (‘‘EPAct 1992’’) amendments to EPCA defined ‘‘electric motor’’ to include a certain type of ‘‘general purpose’’ motor. (42 U.S.C. 6311(13)(A) (1992)) EPAct 1992 set energy conservation standards for such ‘‘electric motors’’ and explicitly stated that the standards did not apply to definite purpose or special purpose motors. (42 U.S.C. 6313(b)(1)) (1992)) In EISA 2007, Congress removed the definition of ‘‘electric motors,’’ added a definitional heading for ‘‘electric motors,’’ and then denoted several types of ‘‘electric motors,’’ including general purpose electric motors, definite purpose motors, and special purpose motors. (See 42 U.S.C. 6311(13) (2010)) EISA 2007 also amended the energy conservation standards for general purpose motors and removed the exclusion for definite purpose and special purpose motors. (42 U.S.C. 6313(b)(2)–(3) (2010)) Based on these changes, in spite of the absence of any current standards for these types of motors, it is DOE’s view that definite and special purpose motors are ‘‘electric motor’’ categories covered under EPCA. Accordingly, DOE is considering establishing standards for certain definite and special purpose motors in the context of the electric motors rulemaking. While existing energy conservation standards cover a majority of the electric motors market, based on DOE’s initial findings, several categories of the definite or special purpose motors that interested parties recommended for standards coverage have significant sales volumes, and thus energy savings potential. Adding these motors to the group of motors for which DOE has already set energy conservation standards would also reduce the incentive for manufacturers to attempt to circumvent existing or amended standards by substituting unregulated motors for regulated motors. To this end, DOE examined each motor type to determine whether it would require an engineering analysis separate from covered general purpose electric motors, and whether it could be evaluated using DOE’s current test procedure, located in subpart B of 10 CFR part 431. To inform its decision-making process, DOE seeks information regarding whether any of the motor types listed in Table 1 below have any unique design features that affect the cost or efficiency of the motor. For instance, DOE is interested in whether a particular design feature for a brake motor would prevent it from meeting an efficiency level that its general purpose counterpart can meet. Furthermore, if the cost-efficiency relationship for a comparable general purpose motor cannot be applied to the motor type in question, DOE requests information on the relationship between cost and efficiency. DOE seeks information on whether a scaling relationship can be used to extend the cost-efficiency relationship of a general purpose motor to the motor type in question. DOE also requests comments on whether inclusion of each of the motor types listed in Table 1 in the electric motors rulemaking would require changes to the current DOE test procedure. DOE requests information on whether the change would require that a new test method or test procedure be incorporated by reference, or whether it would require a slight modification or clarification as to how the test is performed, similar to what is currently done for vertical solid shaft motors, which, as DOE understands the current practice, are tested in the horizontal configuration. If a new test procedure is needed, DOE requests information on any test procedures or test methods that are applicable and available and the reasons for those procedures or methods. Table 1 summarizes DOE’s preliminary findings for each of the motor types that stakeholders support including within the electric motors standards rulemaking. DOE requests comment on the preliminary conclusions included in the table, as well as the market share of each of these motor types, and the potential energy saved by including each motor type. The market analysis consists of motors sold in the U.S. by NEMA-member companies and does not include any imports. DOE also requests comment on whether there are any other types of motors not listed in Table 1 that DOE should consider including in the standards rulemaking. TABLE 1—ELECTRIC MOTOR TYPES WHICH STAKEHOLDER COMMENTS INDICATED SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE STANDARDS RULEMAKING WReier-Aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS Motor type Requires separate analysis from general purpose motors? Requires changes to the DOE test procedure? Approximate percentage of the motor market NEMA Design A Motors from 200 to 500 HP. No .......... No ............. Unknown Brake Motors ............................................. No .......... No ............. 10.1% VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:09 Mar 29, 2011 Jkt 223001 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\30MRP1.SGM Notes DOE believes that these motors are similar to the lower horsepower Design A electric motors already covered. DOE believes that when not applied, the brake unit does not interfere with normal operation and therefore the motor can be tested with the brake in the off position using the current test procedure. DOE believes that the cost-efficiency relationship is similar to that of a general purpose electric motor. 30MRP1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 61 / Wednesday, March 30, 2011 / Proposed Rules 17579 TABLE 1—ELECTRIC MOTOR TYPES WHICH STAKEHOLDER COMMENTS INDICATED SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE STANDARDS RULEMAKING—Continued Requires changes to the DOE test procedure? Approximate percentage of the motor market Partial Motors or Component Sets ........... Yes ......... Yes ........... 11.9% Integral Shafted Partial Motors ................. No .......... No ............. Vertical Hollow Shaft Motors .................... No .......... No ............. 0.8% Integral Gear Motors ................................. No .......... No ............. 15.6% TENV Motors ............................................ WReier-Aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS Motor type Requires separate analysis from general purpose motors? Yes ......... No ............. 3.0% VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:09 Mar 29, 2011 Jkt 223001 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\30MRP1.SGM Notes DOE has been advised that these motors do not include a full frame, front plate, bearings, shaft, or shaft support. Because the ability of these components to dissipate heat is strongly dependent on the type of frame, bearings, etc. chosen, the efficiency of these motors is therefore dependent on the application. Because of this, they would also require a new test procedure. DOE believes that unlike partial motors or component sets, integral shafted partial motors are only missing the drive end face plate, and therefore can be tested with a ‘‘dummy test bracket’’ using the current test procedure. DOE believes that when equipped with a dummy end plate, the cost-efficiency relationship of this type of motor would be similar to that of a general purpose motor. DOE believes that these motors do not differ from vertical solid shaft motors in performance or electrical characteristics. When tested with their bearings swapped for ball bearings and in a horizontal configuration, these motors can meet designated efficiency levels of general purpose motors. DOE believes that the test procedure would mirror that performed on vertical solid shaft motors, which are currently covered by DOE standards. DOE has been advised that these motors are almost identical to integral shafted partial motors in function, and therefore can be tested similarly, with a ‘‘dummy test bracket’’ in lieu of a standard face plate. As with integral shafted motors, DOE believes that when equipped with a dummy end plate, the cost-efficiency relationship of this type of motor would be similar to that of a general purpose motor. DOE understands that these motors have no built-in fan, and therefore require enough exterior clearance to allow for free convection. Furthermore, the frame is generally larger to aid in dissipation of heat. Because of this, DOE believes that the cost-efficiency relationship for a general purpose motor cannot be directly applied to a TENV motor, as TENV motors have unique efficiency-affecting features that distinguish them from general purpose motors. 30MRP1 17580 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 61 / Wednesday, March 30, 2011 / Proposed Rules TABLE 1—ELECTRIC MOTOR TYPES WHICH STAKEHOLDER COMMENTS INDICATED SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE STANDARDS RULEMAKING—Continued Motor type Requires separate analysis from general purpose motors? Requires changes to the DOE test procedure? TEAO Motors ............................................ Yes ......... Yes ........... The joint comments from ASAP and NEMA also identified several types of motors that the commenters believe should not be included in the standards rulemaking. (ASAP/NEMA, No. 12 at p. 9) These motors are presented in Table 2. To inform its decision-making process, DOE seeks information regarding the merits of this recommendation and whether any of the motor types listed in Table 2 have any unique design features that affect the cost or efficiency of the motor. Furthermore, if the cost-efficiency relationship for a comparable general purpose motor cannot be applied to the Approximate percentage of the motor market Notes DOE understands that these motors are intended to be cooled by ventilation means external to the motor and that the motor must be provided with additional ventilation to prevent it from overheating. DOE believes the addition of a separate means for cooling would require a new test procedure. Furthermore, DOE believes that the cost-efficiency relationship for a general purpose motor cannot be directly applied to a TEAO motor, as TEAO motors have unique efficiency-affecting features that distinguish them from general purpose motors. motor type in question, DOE requests information on the relationship between cost and efficiency. DOE seeks information on whether a scaling relationship can be used to extend the cost-efficiency relationship of a general purpose motor to the motor type in question. DOE also requests comments on whether inclusion of each of the motor types listed in Table 2 in the electric motors rulemaking would require changes to the current DOE test procedure and if so, whether those changes would require that a new test method or test procedure be incorporated by reference. If a new test procedure is needed, DOE requests information on any test procedures or test methods that are applicable and available and why those procedures or methods are needed. Table 2 summarizes DOE’s preliminary findings for each of the motor types that ASAP and NEMA do not support for inclusion within the electric motors standards rulemaking. DOE requests comment on the preliminary conclusions included in Table 2, as well as the market share of each of these motor types and their potential energy savings. TABLE 2—ELECTRIC MOTOR TYPES WHICH STAKEHOLDER COMMENTS INDICATED SHOULD BE EXCLUDED FROM THE STANDARDS RULEMAKING Requires separate analysis from general purpose motors? Requires changes to the DOE test procedure? Multispeed Motors ........................... Yes .................... Yes .................... DC Motors ....................................... Yes .................... Yes .................... Single Phase Motors ....................... WReier-Aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS Motor type Yes .................... Yes .................... Liquid Cooled and Submersible or Immersible Motors. DOE Requests Comment. Yes .................... VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:09 Mar 29, 2011 Jkt 223001 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Notes The current standards only cover single-speed motors, and therefore, DOE believes that the cost-efficiency relationship for general purpose motors cannot be directly applied to multispeed motors. Also, these motors would require a new test procedure. The current standards only cover AC motors, and therefore, DOE believes that the cost-efficiency relationship for general purpose motors cannot be directly applied to DC motors. Also, these motors would require a new test procedure. The current standards only cover polyphase motors, and therefore, DOE believes that the cost-efficiency relationship for general purpose motors cannot be directly applied to single phase motors. Also, these motors would require a new test procedure. DOE understands that the submersible motor is completely sealed for use in submersible applications, and that cooling is accomplished by surrounding liquid. DOE requests comment on whether the cost-efficiency relationship for a general purpose motor can be directly applied to a submersible motor. Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\30MRP1.SGM 30MRP1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 61 / Wednesday, March 30, 2011 / Proposed Rules 17581 TABLE 2—ELECTRIC MOTOR TYPES WHICH STAKEHOLDER COMMENTS INDICATED SHOULD BE EXCLUDED FROM THE STANDARDS RULEMAKING—Continued Requires separate analysis from general purpose motors? Requires changes to the DOE test procedure? Electronically Commutated Motors Yes .................... Yes .................... Switched Reluctance Motors .......... Yes .................... Yes .................... Interior Permanent Magnet Motors Yes .................... Yes .................... Inverter-duty Motors ........................ Yes .................... No ..................... Intermittent-duty Motors .................. Yes .................... Yes .................... WReier-Aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS Motor type Notes The current standards only cover squirrel-cage induction motors, and therefore, DOE believes that the cost-efficiency relationship for general purpose motors cannot be directly applied to electrically commutated motors. Also, these motors would require a new test procedure. The current standards only cover squirrel-cage induction motors, and therefore, DOE believes that the cost-efficiency relationship for general purpose motors cannot be directly applied to switched reluctance motors. Also, these motors would require a new test procedure. The current standards only cover squirrel-cage induction motors, and therefore, DOE believes that the cost-efficiency relationship for general purpose motors cannot be directly applied to interior permanent magnet motors. Also, these motors would require a new test procedure. DOE is aware that these motors are designed to run on variable frequency drives and typically are designed to run at lower speeds. Because they are designed to run at lower speeds where they won’t be cooled as effectively, in order to prevent the motor from overheating, the insulation differs from that used in a general purpose motor. This difference in internal design leads to a different cost-efficiency curve. DOE is aware that these motors are designed to run on an intermittent basis to allow for proper cooling without overheating. The current standards and test procedure only cover continuous duty motors. Therefore, DOE believes that the cost-efficiency relationship for general purpose motors cannot be directly applied to intermittent-duty motors. Also, these motors would require a new test procedure. In addition to the above issues, DOE seeks information and comment regarding the possible consolidation of two different sets of motors into one equipment class for the purposes of its analysis. Specifically, Baldor and NEMA both recommended that DOE combine Design A and Design B motors into a single equipment class. (Baldor, Framework Public Meeting Transcript, p.77; NEMA, No. 13, p.4) (‘‘Design A’’ and ‘‘Design B’’ are NEMA-developed designations that define a motor’s performance characteristics such as the locked-rotor torque, pull-up torque, breakdown torque, inrush current, and locked-rotor current.) These motors are identical except with respect to the limit on inrush current 2—Design B motors are limited to certain prescribed levels while Design A motors have no such limitation. DOE is interested in receiving information about any differences in efficiencies between similar Design A and Design B motors. DOE is also interested in receiving information about the respective market shares of Design A and Design B motors. Baldor and NEMA made a similar recommendation for U-frame and Tframe motors. (Baldor, Framework Public Meeting Transcript, p.126; NEMA, No. 13, p.13) T-frame motors, which are more compact than U-frame motors, are increasingly being used as replacements for their U-frame counterparts. While installing a T-frame motor into a U-frame application requires minor adjustments (e.g. shimming of the mounting plate and/or using a different shaft coupling, which are changes that a technician can make expeditiously) to enable it to fit within a U-frame application, this motor would provide the same functionality as the Uframe motor it replaces. Partly because of their smaller size and lower weight for similarly rated motors (i.e. horsepower), information reviewed by DOE indicates that T-frame motors are replacing U-frame motors in both new and existing applications. (NEMA/ ACEEE, No. 25, p. 6) 3 DOE is interested in receiving information about the difference in efficiencies between similar T-frame and U-frame motors. DOE is also interested in receiving information about the respective market shares of T-frame and U-frame motors. 2 Inrush current refers to the maximum, instantaneous input current drawn by an electrical device when first turned on. For example, an alternating current electric motor may draw several times its normal full-load current when first energized, for a few cycles of the input waveform. 3 This written comment was submitted to the docket of the supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking on test procedures for electric motors and small electric motors (refer to https:// www.regulations.gov, Docket No. EERE–2008–BT– TP–0008; RIN number 1904–AB71). For this RFI, DOE requests comments, information, and recommendations on the following concepts for the purpose of determining whether additional motor types currently without energy VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:09 Mar 29, 2011 Jkt 223001 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Public Participation A. Submission of Information DOE will accept comments in response to this RFI under the timeline provided in the DATES section. Comments submitted to the Department through the eRulemaking Portal or by email should be provided in WordPerfect, Microsoft Word, portable document format (PDF), or text file format. Those responding should avoid the use of special characters or any form of encryption. No facsimiles will be accepted. Comments submitted in response to this notice will become a matter of public record and will be made publicly available. B. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Information E:\FR\FM\30MRP1.SGM 30MRP1 WReier-Aviles on DSKGBLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS 17582 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 61 / Wednesday, March 30, 2011 / Proposed Rules conservation standards can and should be assigned energy conservation standards. DOE also seeks information and comment regarding the possible consolidation of NEMA Design A and Design B motors into one equipment class and NEMA T- and U-frame motors into one equipment class for the purpose of its analysis and energy conservation standards. 1. DOE requests comment on the preliminary conclusions included in Table 1 and Table 2. 2. DOE seeks comment on whether the analyses performed for motors that currently have standards can be extended to those electric motors listed in Table 1 and Table 2. 3. DOE seeks information regarding whether any of the motor types listed in Table 1 and Table 2 have any unique design features that affect the cost or efficiency of the motor compared to general purpose motors. a. If the cost-efficiency relationship for a comparable general purpose motor cannot be applied to the motor type in question, DOE requests information on the relationship between cost and efficiency. b. DOE requests information on whether a scaling relationship can be used to extend the cost-efficiency relationship of a general purpose motor to the motor type in question. 4. DOE requests comment on the market share of each of these motor types listed in Table 1 and Table 2. 5. DOE requests comment on the potential energy saved by including each motor type listed in Table 1 and Table 2 in the standards rulemaking. 6. DOE seeks information on methods for testing the motors listed in Table 1 and Table 2, and how they may differ from the current test procedures for electric motors. If a new test procedure is needed, DOE requests information on the reasons why such a new procedures is needed and the current availability and applicability of any test procedures or test methods. DOE also seeks confirmation of the accuracy of its understanding with respect to the testing of vertical shaft motors. 7. DOE seeks information on any other types of definite purpose or special purpose motors not listed in Table 1 and Table 2 that DOE should consider including in this rulemaking. 8. DOE seeks comment on the possible consolidation of NEMA Design A and Design B motors into one equipment class, and NEMA T- and Uframe motors into one equipment class. a. What are the possible differences in achievable efficiency between Design A and Design B motors? VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:09 Mar 29, 2011 Jkt 223001 b. What are the respective market shares of Design A and Design B motors? c. What are the possible differences in achievable efficiency between U-frame and T-frame motors? d. What are the respective market shares of U-frame and T-frame motors? Statutory Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6313(b)(4). Issued in Washington, DC, on March 24, 2011. Kathleen B. Hogan, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Office of Technology Development, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. [FR Doc. 2011–7440 Filed 3–29–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6450–01–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 25 [Docket No. NM451; Notice No. 25–11–10– SC] Special Conditions: Bombardier Model BD–700–1A10 and BD–700–1A11 Airplanes, Head-Up Display (HUD) With Video Synthetic Vision System (SVS) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed special conditions. AGENCY: This action proposes special conditions for Bombardier Model BD– 700–1A10 and BD–700–1A11 airplanes. These airplanes, as modified by Bombardier Inc., will have a novel or unusual design features associated with a SVS that displays video imagery on the HUD. The applicable airworthiness regulations do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for this design feature. These special conditions contain the additional safety standards that the Administrator considers necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by the existing airworthiness standards. DATES: We must receive your comments by April 19, 2011. ADDRESSES: You must mail two copies of your comments to: Federal Aviation Administration, Transport Airplane Directorate, Attn: Rules Docket (ANM– 113), Docket No. NM451, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356. You may deliver two copies to the Transport Airplane Directorate at the above address. You must mark your comments: Docket No. NM451. You can inspect comments in the Rules Docket weekdays, except SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Federal holidays, between 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dale Dunford, FAA, ANM–111, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone (425) 227–2239 facsimile (425) 227–1100. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite interested people to take part in this rulemaking by sending written comments, data, or views. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the special conditions, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. We ask that you send us two copies of written comments. We will file in the docket all comments we receive, as well as a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerning these special conditions. You can inspect the docket before and after the comment closing date. If you wish to review the docket in person, go to the address in the ADDRESSES section of this preamble between 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. We will consider all comments we receive on or before the closing date for comments. We will consider comments filed late if it is possible to do so without incurring expense or delay. We may change these special conditions based on the comments we receive. If you want us to acknowledge receipt of your comments on this proposal, include with your comments a selfaddressed, stamped postcard on which you have written the docket number. We will stamp the date on the postcard and mail it back to you. Background On January 26, 2007, Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA), on behalf of Bombardier Inc., located in Montreal Canada, applied to the New York Aircraft Certification Office (NYACO) for FAA approval of a typedesign change on the Bombardier Model BD–700–1A10 and BD–700–1A11 airplanes. Per Type Certificate Data Sheet (TCDS) T00003NY, those aircraft models are known under the marketing designation of Global Express and Global 5000, respectively. The change is to introduce the Rockwell-Collins avionics suite to replace the existing Honeywell Primus 2000EP avionics suite. It includes the installation of a SVS that displays video imagery. Video display on the HUD constitutes new and novel technology for which the E:\FR\FM\30MRP1.SGM 30MRP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 61 (Wednesday, March 30, 2011)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 17577-17582]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-7440]


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DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

10 CFR Part 431

[Docket Number EERE-2010-BT-STD-0027]
RIN 1904-AC28


Increased Scope of Coverage for Electric Motors

AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of 
Energy.

ACTION: Request for information (RFI).

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE or the Department) seeks 
certain information to help inform its current rulemaking to set energy 
conservation standards for electric motors. Specifically, DOE seeks 
information to assist DOE in determining whether to develop energy 
conservation standards for certain types of electric motors that are 
currently unregulated by any standards. Should DOE receive sufficient 
information supporting the inclusion of these motor types, DOE will 
consider including these motor types in the electric motors standards 
rulemaking.

DATES: Written comments and information are requested on or before 
April 19, 2011.

ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using 
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at https://www.regulations.gov. Follow 
the instructions for submitting comments. Alternatively, interested 
persons may submit comments, identified by docket number EERE-2010-BT-
STD-0027, by any of the following methods:
     E-mail: ElecMotors-2010-STD-0027@ee.doe.gov. Include 
docket number EERE-2010-BT-STD-0027 and/or RIN 1904-AC28 in the subject 
line of the message.
     Mail: Ms. Brenda Edwards, U.S. Department of Energy, 
Building Technologies Program, Mailstop EE-2J, Revisions to Energy 
Efficiency Enforcement Regulations, EERE-2010-BT-STD-0027, 1000 
Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20585- 0121. Phone: (202) 586-
2945. Please submit one signed paper original.
     Hand Delivery/Courier: Ms. Brenda Edwards, U.S. Department 
of Energy, Building Technologies Program, 6th Floor, 950 L'Enfant 
Plaza, SW., Washington, DC 20024. Phone: (202) 586-2945. Please submit 
one signed paper original.
    Instructions: All submissions received must include the agency name 
and docket number or RIN for this rulemaking.
    Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents, or 
comments received, go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal at https://www.regulations.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. James Raba, U.S. Department of 
Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building 
Technologies Program, EE-2J, 1000 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, 
DC 20585-0121, (202) 586-8654, e-mail: Jim.Raba@ee.doe.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
    Authority and Background: DOE intends to publish a final rule 
determining whether to amend the current energy conservation standards 
for electric motors. On September 28, 2010, DOE published a notice of 
availability of the ``Energy Conservation Standards Rulemaking 
Framework Document for Electric Motors'' (Framework Document), which 
describes the procedural and analytical approaches DOE anticipates 
using in its evaluation. 75 FR 59657. DOE must publish a final rule 
determining whether to amend the electric motors standards by December 
19, 2012. (42 U.S.C. 6313(b)(4)(B)).
    The current energy conservation standards for electric motors, as 
set forth in the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA 
2007) amendments to the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (ECPA), 
establish energy conservation standards for two types of general 
purpose electric motors: (1) Subtype I, and (2) subtype II. (42 U.S.C. 
6313(b)(2)) These broad categories include various types of motors, 
such as the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Design 
B motors rated from 1 to 500 horsepower, NEMA Design A and C motors 
rated from 1 to 200 horsepower, vertical solid shaft motors and close-
coupled pump motors. These standards do not apply to vertical hollow 
shaft motors, integral shafted partial motors, brake motors, or NEMA 
Design A motors between 200 and 500 horsepower, among other motor 
types. This is so because these types of electric motors do not meet 
currently prescribed definitions for general purpose electric motor 
(subtype I) and general purpose electric motor (subtype II), in that 
they are not general purpose motors and cannot be used in most general 
purpose applications. (42 U.S.C. 6311(13)(A)-(B); 10 CFR 431.12).
    During the Framework Document comment period, energy efficiency 
advocates (the Appliance Standards Awareness Project (ASAP) and the 
American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE)), 
manufacturers (NEMA and Baldor), and utilities (the Pacific Gas and 
Electric Company (PG&E), Southern California Gas Company (SCGC), San 
Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E), and Southern California Edison (SCE)) 
urged DOE to consider including additional motor types currently 
without energy conservation standards in DOE's analyses and 
establishing such standards. (ASAP/NEMA, No. 12 at p. 1; ACEEE, No. 10 
at p. 1; Baldor, No. 8 at p. 2; PG&E/SCGC/SDG&E/SCE, No. 11 at p. 1) 
\1\ In the commenters' view, this approach would more effectively 
increase energy savings than setting more stringent standards for the 
electric motors that are currently being examined as part of the energy 
conservation standards rulemaking that DOE has initiated. See 75 FR 
59657 (September 28, 2010). These parties also asserted that expanding 
the scope of DOE's current efforts, along with specially tailored 
exemptions for certain types of electric motors,would enable DOE to 
simplify its compliance and enforcement efforts. (ASAP/NEMA, No. 12 at 
p. 1-2; ACEEE, No. 10 at p. 1)
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    \1\ Notations of this form appear throughout this document and 
identify statements made in written comments or at public hearings 
that DOE has received and has included in the docket for this 
rulemaking. For example, ``NEMA, No. 12 at p. 7'' refers to a 
comment: (1) From the National Electrical Manufacturers Association; 
(2) in document number 12 in the docket of this rulemaking; and (3) 
appearing on page 7 of the submission, while ``Baldor, Framework 
Public Meeting Transcript, p.126'' refers to a comment: (1) From 
Baldor Electric Company; (2) in the transcript for the public 
meeting on the Framework document; and (3) appearing on page 126 of 
the transcript.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In light of these comments, DOE requests information regarding 
definite purpose and special purpose motors, including the additional 
motor types that DOE describes in Table 1 and Table 2. DOE is 
considering including definite and special purpose motors in the 
electric motors standards rulemaking.

[[Page 17578]]

Although DOE is particularly interested in information on the specific 
motor types identified in comments received in response to the 
Framework Document, commenters are welcome to provide information 
similar to the information sought for any additional motor type that 
the commenter believes should be included in this rulemaking and the 
reasons for their inclusion as part of the standards rulemaking.
    Description: Public comments are sought from interested parties 
regarding establishment of energy conservation standards for several 
types of definite and special purpose motors for which EISA 2007 did 
not provide energy conservation standards. DOE has the authority to set 
energy conservation standards for a wider range of electric motors than 
those classified as general purpose electric motors (e.g., definite or 
special purpose motors). The Energy Policy Act of 1992 (``EPAct 1992'') 
amendments to EPCA defined ``electric motor'' to include a certain type 
of ``general purpose'' motor. (42 U.S.C. 6311(13)(A) (1992)) EPAct 1992 
set energy conservation standards for such ``electric motors'' and 
explicitly stated that the standards did not apply to definite purpose 
or special purpose motors. (42 U.S.C. 6313(b)(1)) (1992)) In EISA 2007, 
Congress removed the definition of ``electric motors,'' added a 
definitional heading for ``electric motors,'' and then denoted several 
types of ``electric motors,'' including general purpose electric 
motors, definite purpose motors, and special purpose motors. (See 42 
U.S.C. 6311(13) (2010)) EISA 2007 also amended the energy conservation 
standards for general purpose motors and removed the exclusion for 
definite purpose and special purpose motors. (42 U.S.C. 6313(b)(2)-(3) 
(2010)) Based on these changes, in spite of the absence of any current 
standards for these types of motors, it is DOE's view that definite and 
special purpose motors are ``electric motor'' categories covered under 
EPCA. Accordingly, DOE is considering establishing standards for 
certain definite and special purpose motors in the context of the 
electric motors rulemaking.
    While existing energy conservation standards cover a majority of 
the electric motors market, based on DOE's initial findings, several 
categories of the definite or special purpose motors that interested 
parties recommended for standards coverage have significant sales 
volumes, and thus energy savings potential. Adding these motors to the 
group of motors for which DOE has already set energy conservation 
standards would also reduce the incentive for manufacturers to attempt 
to circumvent existing or amended standards by substituting unregulated 
motors for regulated motors. To this end, DOE examined each motor type 
to determine whether it would require an engineering analysis separate 
from covered general purpose electric motors, and whether it could be 
evaluated using DOE's current test procedure, located in subpart B of 
10 CFR part 431.
    To inform its decision-making process, DOE seeks information 
regarding whether any of the motor types listed in Table 1 below have 
any unique design features that affect the cost or efficiency of the 
motor. For instance, DOE is interested in whether a particular design 
feature for a brake motor would prevent it from meeting an efficiency 
level that its general purpose counterpart can meet. Furthermore, if 
the cost-efficiency relationship for a comparable general purpose motor 
cannot be applied to the motor type in question, DOE requests 
information on the relationship between cost and efficiency. DOE seeks 
information on whether a scaling relationship can be used to extend the 
cost-efficiency relationship of a general purpose motor to the motor 
type in question.
    DOE also requests comments on whether inclusion of each of the 
motor types listed in Table 1 in the electric motors rulemaking would 
require changes to the current DOE test procedure. DOE requests 
information on whether the change would require that a new test method 
or test procedure be incorporated by reference, or whether it would 
require a slight modification or clarification as to how the test is 
performed, similar to what is currently done for vertical solid shaft 
motors, which, as DOE understands the current practice, are tested in 
the horizontal configuration. If a new test procedure is needed, DOE 
requests information on any test procedures or test methods that are 
applicable and available and the reasons for those procedures or 
methods.
    Table 1 summarizes DOE's preliminary findings for each of the motor 
types that stakeholders support including within the electric motors 
standards rulemaking. DOE requests comment on the preliminary 
conclusions included in the table, as well as the market share of each 
of these motor types, and the potential energy saved by including each 
motor type. The market analysis consists of motors sold in the U.S. by 
NEMA-member companies and does not include any imports. DOE also 
requests comment on whether there are any other types of motors not 
listed in Table 1 that DOE should consider including in the standards 
rulemaking.

                    Table 1--Electric Motor Types Which Stakeholder Comments Indicated Should be Included in the Standards Rulemaking
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            Requires separate
              Motor type                  analysis from general     Requires changes to the    Approximate percentage of               Notes
                                             purpose motors?          DOE test procedure?          the motor market
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NEMA Design A Motors from 200 to 500    No.......................  No......................                       Unknown  DOE believes that these
 HP.                                                                                                                        motors are similar to the
                                                                                                                            lower horsepower Design A
                                                                                                                            electric motors already
                                                                                                                            covered.
Brake Motors..........................  No.......................  No......................                         10.1%  DOE believes that when not
                                                                                                                            applied, the brake unit does
                                                                                                                            not interfere with normal
                                                                                                                            operation and therefore the
                                                                                                                            motor can be tested with the
                                                                                                                            brake in the off position
                                                                                                                            using the current test
                                                                                                                            procedure. DOE believes that
                                                                                                                            the cost-efficiency
                                                                                                                            relationship is similar to
                                                                                                                            that of a general purpose
                                                                                                                            electric motor.

[[Page 17579]]

 
Partial Motors or Component Sets......  Yes......................  Yes.....................                         11.9%  DOE has been advised that
                                                                                                                            these motors do not include
                                                                                                                            a full frame, front plate,
                                                                                                                            bearings, shaft, or shaft
                                                                                                                            support. Because the ability
                                                                                                                            of these components to
                                                                                                                            dissipate heat is strongly
                                                                                                                            dependent on the type of
                                                                                                                            frame, bearings, etc.
                                                                                                                            chosen, the efficiency of
                                                                                                                            these motors is therefore
                                                                                                                            dependent on the
                                                                                                                            application. Because of
                                                                                                                            this, they would also
                                                                                                                            require a new test
                                                                                                                            procedure.
Integral Shafted Partial Motors.......  No.......................  No......................  ............................  DOE believes that unlike
                                                                                                                            partial motors or component
                                                                                                                            sets, integral shafted
                                                                                                                            partial motors are only
                                                                                                                            missing the drive end face
                                                                                                                            plate, and therefore can be
                                                                                                                            tested with a ``dummy test
                                                                                                                            bracket'' using the current
                                                                                                                            test procedure. DOE believes
                                                                                                                            that when equipped with a
                                                                                                                            dummy end plate, the cost-
                                                                                                                            efficiency relationship of
                                                                                                                            this type of motor would be
                                                                                                                            similar to that of a general
                                                                                                                            purpose motor.
Vertical Hollow Shaft Motors..........  No.......................  No......................                          0.8%  DOE believes that these
                                                                                                                            motors do not differ from
                                                                                                                            vertical solid shaft motors
                                                                                                                            in performance or electrical
                                                                                                                            characteristics. When tested
                                                                                                                            with their bearings swapped
                                                                                                                            for ball bearings and in a
                                                                                                                            horizontal configuration,
                                                                                                                            these motors can meet
                                                                                                                            designated efficiency levels
                                                                                                                            of general purpose motors.
                                                                                                                            DOE believes that the test
                                                                                                                            procedure would mirror that
                                                                                                                            performed on vertical solid
                                                                                                                            shaft motors, which are
                                                                                                                            currently covered by DOE
                                                                                                                            standards.
Integral Gear Motors..................  No.......................  No......................                         15.6%  DOE has been advised that
                                                                                                                            these motors are almost
                                                                                                                            identical to integral
                                                                                                                            shafted partial motors in
                                                                                                                            function, and therefore can
                                                                                                                            be tested similarly, with a
                                                                                                                            ``dummy test bracket'' in
                                                                                                                            lieu of a standard face
                                                                                                                            plate. As with integral
                                                                                                                            shafted motors, DOE believes
                                                                                                                            that when equipped with a
                                                                                                                            dummy end plate, the cost-
                                                                                                                            efficiency relationship of
                                                                                                                            this type of motor would be
                                                                                                                            similar to that of a general
                                                                                                                            purpose motor.
TENV Motors...........................  Yes......................  No......................                          3.0%  DOE understands that these
                                                                                                                            motors have no built-in fan,
                                                                                                                            and therefore require enough
                                                                                                                            exterior clearance to allow
                                                                                                                            for free convection.
                                                                                                                            Furthermore, the frame is
                                                                                                                            generally larger to aid in
                                                                                                                            dissipation of heat. Because
                                                                                                                            of this, DOE believes that
                                                                                                                            the cost-efficiency
                                                                                                                            relationship for a general
                                                                                                                            purpose motor cannot be
                                                                                                                            directly applied to a TENV
                                                                                                                            motor, as TENV motors have
                                                                                                                            unique efficiency-affecting
                                                                                                                            features that distinguish
                                                                                                                            them from general purpose
                                                                                                                            motors.

[[Page 17580]]

 
TEAO Motors...........................  Yes......................  Yes.....................  ............................  DOE understands that these
                                                                                                                            motors are intended to be
                                                                                                                            cooled by ventilation means
                                                                                                                            external to the motor and
                                                                                                                            that the motor must be
                                                                                                                            provided with additional
                                                                                                                            ventilation to prevent it
                                                                                                                            from overheating. DOE
                                                                                                                            believes the addition of a
                                                                                                                            separate means for cooling
                                                                                                                            would require a new test
                                                                                                                            procedure. Furthermore, DOE
                                                                                                                            believes that the cost-
                                                                                                                            efficiency relationship for
                                                                                                                            a general purpose motor
                                                                                                                            cannot be directly applied
                                                                                                                            to a TEAO motor, as TEAO
                                                                                                                            motors have unique
                                                                                                                            efficiency-affecting
                                                                                                                            features that distinguish
                                                                                                                            them from general purpose
                                                                                                                            motors.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The joint comments from ASAP and NEMA also identified several types 
of motors that the commenters believe should not be included in the 
standards rulemaking. (ASAP/NEMA, No. 12 at p. 9) These motors are 
presented in Table 2. To inform its decision-making process, DOE seeks 
information regarding the merits of this recommendation and whether any 
of the motor types listed in Table 2 have any unique design features 
that affect the cost or efficiency of the motor. Furthermore, if the 
cost-efficiency relationship for a comparable general purpose motor 
cannot be applied to the motor type in question, DOE requests 
information on the relationship between cost and efficiency. DOE seeks 
information on whether a scaling relationship can be used to extend the 
cost-efficiency relationship of a general purpose motor to the motor 
type in question.
    DOE also requests comments on whether inclusion of each of the 
motor types listed in Table 2 in the electric motors rulemaking would 
require changes to the current DOE test procedure and if so, whether 
those changes would require that a new test method or test procedure be 
incorporated by reference. If a new test procedure is needed, DOE 
requests information on any test procedures or test methods that are 
applicable and available and why those procedures or methods are 
needed.
    Table 2 summarizes DOE's preliminary findings for each of the motor 
types that ASAP and NEMA do not support for inclusion within the 
electric motors standards rulemaking. DOE requests comment on the 
preliminary conclusions included in Table 2, as well as the market 
share of each of these motor types and their potential energy savings.

    Table 2--Electric Motor Types Which Stakeholder Comments Indicated Should be Excluded From the Standards
                                                   Rulemaking
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                Requires separate
                                  analysis from     Requires changes
          Motor type             general purpose    to the DOE test                      Notes
                                     motors?           procedure?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Multispeed Motors.............  Yes..............  Yes..............  The current standards only cover single-
                                                                       speed motors, and therefore, DOE believes
                                                                       that the cost-efficiency relationship for
                                                                       general purpose motors cannot be directly
                                                                       applied to multispeed motors. Also, these
                                                                       motors would require a new test
                                                                       procedure.
DC Motors.....................  Yes..............  Yes..............  The current standards only cover AC
                                                                       motors, and therefore, DOE believes that
                                                                       the cost-efficiency relationship for
                                                                       general purpose motors cannot be directly
                                                                       applied to DC motors. Also, these motors
                                                                       would require a new test procedure.
Single Phase Motors...........  Yes..............  Yes..............  The current standards only cover polyphase
                                                                       motors, and therefore, DOE believes that
                                                                       the cost-efficiency relationship for
                                                                       general purpose motors cannot be directly
                                                                       applied to single phase motors. Also,
                                                                       these motors would require a new test
                                                                       procedure.
Liquid Cooled and Submersible   DOE Requests       Yes..............  DOE understands that the submersible motor
 or Immersible Motors.           Comment.                              is completely sealed for use in
                                                                       submersible applications, and that
                                                                       cooling is accomplished by surrounding
                                                                       liquid. DOE requests comment on whether
                                                                       the cost-efficiency relationship for a
                                                                       general purpose motor can be directly
                                                                       applied to a submersible motor.

[[Page 17581]]

 
Electronically Commutated       Yes..............  Yes..............  The current standards only cover squirrel-
 Motors.                                                               cage induction motors, and therefore, DOE
                                                                       believes that the cost-efficiency
                                                                       relationship for general purpose motors
                                                                       cannot be directly applied to
                                                                       electrically commutated motors. Also,
                                                                       these motors would require a new test
                                                                       procedure.
Switched Reluctance Motors....  Yes..............  Yes..............  The current standards only cover squirrel-
                                                                       cage induction motors, and therefore, DOE
                                                                       believes that the cost-efficiency
                                                                       relationship for general purpose motors
                                                                       cannot be directly applied to switched
                                                                       reluctance motors. Also, these motors
                                                                       would require a new test procedure.
Interior Permanent Magnet       Yes..............  Yes..............  The current standards only cover squirrel-
 Motors.                                                               cage induction motors, and therefore, DOE
                                                                       believes that the cost-efficiency
                                                                       relationship for general purpose motors
                                                                       cannot be directly applied to interior
                                                                       permanent magnet motors. Also, these
                                                                       motors would require a new test
                                                                       procedure.
Inverter-duty Motors..........  Yes..............  No...............  DOE is aware that these motors are
                                                                       designed to run on variable frequency
                                                                       drives and typically are designed to run
                                                                       at lower speeds. Because they are
                                                                       designed to run at lower speeds where
                                                                       they won't be cooled as effectively, in
                                                                       order to prevent the motor from
                                                                       overheating, the insulation differs from
                                                                       that used in a general purpose motor.
                                                                       This difference in internal design leads
                                                                       to a different cost-efficiency curve.
Intermittent-duty Motors......  Yes..............  Yes..............  DOE is aware that these motors are
                                                                       designed to run on an intermittent basis
                                                                       to allow for proper cooling without
                                                                       overheating. The current standards and
                                                                       test procedure only cover continuous duty
                                                                       motors. Therefore, DOE believes that the
                                                                       cost-efficiency relationship for general
                                                                       purpose motors cannot be directly applied
                                                                       to intermittent-duty motors. Also, these
                                                                       motors would require a new test
                                                                       procedure.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In addition to the above issues, DOE seeks information and comment 
regarding the possible consolidation of two different sets of motors 
into one equipment class for the purposes of its analysis. 
Specifically, Baldor and NEMA both recommended that DOE combine Design 
A and Design B motors into a single equipment class. (Baldor, Framework 
Public Meeting Transcript, p.77; NEMA, No. 13, p.4) (``Design A'' and 
``Design B'' are NEMA-developed designations that define a motor's 
performance characteristics such as the locked-rotor torque, pull-up 
torque, breakdown torque, inrush current, and locked-rotor current.) 
These motors are identical except with respect to the limit on inrush 
current \2\--Design B motors are limited to certain prescribed levels 
while Design A motors have no such limitation. DOE is interested in 
receiving information about any differences in efficiencies between 
similar Design A and Design B motors. DOE is also interested in 
receiving information about the respective market shares of Design A 
and Design B motors.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \2\ Inrush current refers to the maximum, instantaneous input 
current drawn by an electrical device when first turned on. For 
example, an alternating current electric motor may draw several 
times its normal full-load current when first energized, for a few 
cycles of the input waveform.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Baldor and NEMA made a similar recommendation for U-frame and T-
frame motors. (Baldor, Framework Public Meeting Transcript, p.126; 
NEMA, No. 13, p.13) T-frame motors, which are more compact than U-frame 
motors, are increasingly being used as replacements for their U-frame 
counterparts. While installing a T-frame motor into a U-frame 
application requires minor adjustments (e.g. shimming of the mounting 
plate and/or using a different shaft coupling, which are changes that a 
technician can make expeditiously) to enable it to fit within a U-frame 
application, this motor would provide the same functionality as the U-
frame motor it replaces. Partly because of their smaller size and lower 
weight for similarly rated motors (i.e. horsepower), information 
reviewed by DOE indicates that T-frame motors are replacing U-frame 
motors in both new and existing applications. (NEMA/ACEEE, No. 25, p. 
6) \3\ DOE is interested in receiving information about the difference 
in efficiencies between similar T-frame and U-frame motors. DOE is also 
interested in receiving information about the respective market shares 
of T-frame and U-frame motors.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ This written comment was submitted to the docket of the 
supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking on test procedures for 
electric motors and small electric motors (refer to https://www.regulations.gov, Docket No. EERE-2008-BT-TP-0008; RIN number 
1904-AB71).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Public Participation

A. Submission of Information

    DOE will accept comments in response to this RFI under the timeline 
provided in the DATES section. Comments submitted to the Department 
through the eRulemaking Portal or by e-mail should be provided in 
WordPerfect, Microsoft Word, portable document format (PDF), or text 
file format. Those responding should avoid the use of special 
characters or any form of encryption. No facsimiles will be accepted. 
Comments submitted in response to this notice will become a matter of 
public record and will be made publicly available.

B. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Information

    For this RFI, DOE requests comments, information, and 
recommendations on the following concepts for the purpose of 
determining whether additional motor types currently without energy

[[Page 17582]]

conservation standards can and should be assigned energy conservation 
standards. DOE also seeks information and comment regarding the 
possible consolidation of NEMA Design A and Design B motors into one 
equipment class and NEMA T- and U-frame motors into one equipment class 
for the purpose of its analysis and energy conservation standards.
    1. DOE requests comment on the preliminary conclusions included in 
Table 1 and Table 2.
    2. DOE seeks comment on whether the analyses performed for motors 
that currently have standards can be extended to those electric motors 
listed in Table 1 and Table 2.
    3. DOE seeks information regarding whether any of the motor types 
listed in Table 1 and Table 2 have any unique design features that 
affect the cost or efficiency of the motor compared to general purpose 
motors.
    a. If the cost-efficiency relationship for a comparable general 
purpose motor cannot be applied to the motor type in question, DOE 
requests information on the relationship between cost and efficiency.
    b. DOE requests information on whether a scaling relationship can 
be used to extend the cost-efficiency relationship of a general purpose 
motor to the motor type in question.
    4. DOE requests comment on the market share of each of these motor 
types listed in Table 1 and Table 2.
    5. DOE requests comment on the potential energy saved by including 
each motor type listed in Table 1 and Table 2 in the standards 
rulemaking.
    6. DOE seeks information on methods for testing the motors listed 
in Table 1 and Table 2, and how they may differ from the current test 
procedures for electric motors. If a new test procedure is needed, DOE 
requests information on the reasons why such a new procedures is needed 
and the current availability and applicability of any test procedures 
or test methods. DOE also seeks confirmation of the accuracy of its 
understanding with respect to the testing of vertical shaft motors.
    7. DOE seeks information on any other types of definite purpose or 
special purpose motors not listed in Table 1 and Table 2 that DOE 
should consider including in this rulemaking.
    8. DOE seeks comment on the possible consolidation of NEMA Design A 
and Design B motors into one equipment class, and NEMA T- and U-frame 
motors into one equipment class.
    a. What are the possible differences in achievable efficiency 
between Design A and Design B motors?
    b. What are the respective market shares of Design A and Design B 
motors?
    c. What are the possible differences in achievable efficiency 
between U-frame and T-frame motors?
    d. What are the respective market shares of U-frame and T-frame 
motors?

    Statutory Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6313(b)(4).

    Issued in Washington, DC, on March 24, 2011.
Kathleen B. Hogan,
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Office of Technology 
Development, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.
[FR Doc. 2011-7440 Filed 3-29-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
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