Building air cooled heat exchanger motors that last

Air cooled heat exchangers are commonly used in petrochemical facilities to cool process fluids. Motors in this application do not achieve their expected service life if special precautions aren't taken in their construction and application. Many forced and induced draft air cooled heat exchangers are built per API Standard 661. While this standard does give specifications defining electric motor drivers, the section is brief and does not adequately outline all necessary considerations for successful motor use. Furthermore, many air cooled heat exchangers are built with stock motors that do not meet API 661. This paper explores the application of AC motors in air cooled heat exchangers, associated challenges, and recommended design and construction features necessary for extended motor life.