Analysis of the sizing of a variable frequency drive and 400 kW squirrel-cage induction motor to increase the operational availability of an 8'x10' ball mill, used in the mining sector

The objective of the research was to size the variable frequency drive and induction motor of 400 kW squirrel cage type, to increase the availability of 8x10 ball mills in the mining sector. The results obtained show that untimely shutdowns per month were significantly reduced from 2 to 0, at the same time availability was increased to 100% in the mill and maintenance service costs were reduced. In addition, energy consumption was reduced at the time of start-up of the equipment. All these results demonstrate the economic savings and additional income generated by these benefits, which shows that the investment executed was an adequate and profitable solution for this type of sizing of the drive and motor. Concluding that by carrying out the proper sizing and the acquisition of the frequency inverter and 400kw electric motor type squirrel cage, the availability increased from 98.98% to 100%, with this result the efficiency of the 8'x10' mill will be improved, in addition to reducing untimely stops of the mill.