STRENGTH IN MOTION: Harnessing the Power of GEARMOTORS and DRIVES for Construction Innovation

In the bustling world of construction, where precision, power, and efficiency are paramount, the technology behind the machinery is often overlooked. Equipment Times looks into the current market trends, competitors, R&D, support and services, training or technical assistance, developments or advancements and the main challenges in the gear motor industry.

Gearmotors and drive systems are integral to construction equipment, enabling the seamless conversion of electrical energy into mechanical power. A gearmotor combines a motor and a gearbox, offering the dual benefits of speed reduction and torque multiplication. Drives, or drive controllers, manage the operation of motors, ensuring precise control over speed, direction, and torque.

Robust Design for Rugged Environments

Construction sites are harsh environments with extreme conditions, including heavy loads, vibrations, dust, and varying temperatures. Gearmotors and drives are designed to withstand these challenges. Their robust construction, often featuring sealed housings and durable materials, ensures longevity and reliability. Advanced lubrication systems and thermal management further enhance their performance, allowing them to operate smoothly under strenuous conditions.

Precision and Efficiency

One of the standout features of modern gearmotors and drive systems is their precision. With the advent of digital technology, these systems are now equipped with advanced sensors and feedback mechanisms. These enhancements allow for precise control over motion, crucial for tasks that require meticulous accuracy, such as positioning beams or pouring concrete. Moreover, efficiency is a key consideration. Efficient gearmotors and drives reduce energy consumption, leading to cost savings and lower environmental impact. Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) are a prime example, allowing motors to operate at optimal speeds and reducing unnecessary power usage.

Market

The Indian market for gearmotors and drives used in construction equipment is a dynamic and growing sector. This growth is driven by several factors, including rapid urbanization, infrastructure development, and government initiatives aimed at boosting construction activities.

The Indian construction equipment market is expected to witness substantial growth in the coming years. Gearmotors and drives are critical components in various construction machinery such as excavators, cranes, bulldozers, and concrete mixers. The market for gearmotors and drives is growing in tandem with the construction equipment market, driven by the need for more efficient, reliable, and versatile equipment. Massive government spending on infrastructure projects like highways, metro systems, and smart cities. Increasing urban population necessitating the development of new residential and commercial spaces. The adoption of advanced technologies and automation in construction equipment. The need for energy-efficient and high-performance machinery.

Companies compete on the basis of product quality, technological innovation, after-sales service, and price. Energy efficiency and durability are key differentiators in the market.

Collaborations between domestic and international companies to leverage technology and market reach. Focus on developing advanced, energy-efficient, and customized solutions for the Indian market.

Future Prospects

As construction projects become more complex and sustainability becomes a pressing concern, the role of gearmotors and drives will only grow. The focus will likely shift towards developing even more efficient and environmentally friendly systems. Innovations in materials science, power electronics, and digital technology will drive this progress, ensuring that gearmotors and drives continue to meet the evolving needs of the construction industry.

Gearmotors and drives are the hidden champions of construction equipment, providing the muscle and control needed to transform blueprints into reality. Their robust design, precision, and efficiency are critical to the performance and reliability of construction machinery. As technology advances, these systems will continue to evolve, powering the future of construction with greater intelligence and sustainability. For now, they remain the steadfast partners in building our world, one project at a time.

Industry speaks…

Amit Deokule, Director, Sales & Marketing, NORD Drivesystems, said, “NORD prioritizes longevity and efficiency in our product design, adhering to the highest manufacturing standards for geared motors from the outset. Our gears are crafted to meet DIN3990 standards, while gear housings utilize GG 20 or GGG40 materials, complying with top-tier FEM standards. With our patented “UNICASE” design, featuring fewer joints and sealing surfaces, we ensure virtually leak-proof gear housings, bolstered by enhanced shock absorption capabilities, minimizing the risk of breakdowns. Our motors, ranging from IE3 to IE4 Class, boast high efficiency and are supported by advanced VFD technology, optimizing power consumption during operation. Additionally, our Quadra lip sealing system, incorporating three sealing lips and a fourth layer of oil and grease, serves as a robust barrier to prevent oil leakage. We support our customers during all stages. At pre-ordering stage, we support our customers with required application based technical support as we are equipped with application-based selection software tools which includes main Engineering applications like conveyors, hoists, mixers/Agitators turntables etc. We have ‘myNORD’ selection tools on our website from which customer can easily do the selection and can download technical data sheet & required CAD/pdf drawing which will help them to select product at their end. We support our customers with the most optimised product in line to their applications and offer best techno- commercial quote. We offer prompt after sales support as our NORD India operations is equipped with wide network of service support across India which includes our dedicated service Engineers and our authorised sales & service channel partners. We are having Extra mile “service Van” which is well equipped with all the required service set up for onsite servicing and for AMC jobs.”

Pranav Dave, National Sales Head, Rossi Gearmotors (India), said, “The gearmotors and drives industry in India is experiencing growth driven by various factors such as industrial automation, infrastructure development and the expansion of manufacturing sectors like automotive, textiles, food processing, etc. The geared motors and drives market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% between 2023 and 2028. Almost all the sectors will grow and most drive system manufacturers have identified the market dynamics and have ramped up the operations to meet the demand. R & D is backbone of our company, and it plays a critical role in driving sustainable growth, competitiveness, and long-term success for companies in a rapidly evolving global marketplace. We are aggressively launching new products like iFit, large Heavy-duty series and Planetary products through investments in our R&D. In 2024, we have kick started a global R&D centre that helps the global R&D team. We have plans to expand the team in the coming years. We technically assist our customers for maintaining our products. We understand that educating customers is very important. We provide one of the best quality products and if these are used with proper preventive maintenance, it can offer more than desired reliable life. Training gives better product understanding for effective utilization of the product. By providing on-site training, we don’t just sell a product but also offer a solution and support system, which can lead to more satisfied and loyal customers.”