Permanent Magnet Motor Safety

Abstract

Abstract As Permanent Magnet Motors (PMMs) become more widely used because of their many benefits, awareness of the potential safety hazards arising from their differences from Induction Motors (IMs) is important. Due to their construction, the magnetic field presence is always "on" with PMM – even when not under energized electrical energy. PMMs are AC generators when freely rotating forward or backward. Elevated safety consciousness is needed to avoid serious injury or fatality when working with PMMs. This paper presents operational procedures for installing, pulling, troubleshooting, and handling PMMs with a focus upon safety. Hazards have been identified, and some mitigations are recommended to eliminate the potential danger and bring awareness to the petroleum industry (and others) to ensure that all workers go home safely. The observations presented in this paper came directly from field experience with operators, equipment manufacturers, and service providers.