How to Scientifically Select an Oil Pump Motor?

In industrial fluid systems, the performance of an oil pump depends not only on the pump body itself, but also on whether the motor driving it is matched. Choosing the wrong motor will, at best, lead to low efficiency and soaring energy consumption, and at worst, cause overheating, shutdown and even safety accidents.

Based on engineering practice, this article systematically sorts out how to scientifically select an oil pump motor around the eight dimensions you provided — not only meeting process requirements, but also taking into account safety, energy efficiency and long-term costs.

1. Precisely Define Oil Pump Operating Conditions Requirements: The Starting Point of Selection

I. Clarify the Working Requirements of the Oil Pump: The Starting Point of Selection

Motor selection is based on the actual operating condition data of the oil pump:

•  Flow Rate (Q): Oil delivery volume per unit time (m³/h or L/min), which determines the basic load;
•  Pressure (P): Required outlet pressure of the system (MPa or Bar), reflecting the resistance level;
•  Shaft Power (Pₐ): Calculated by the formula Pa = (Q×P)/(367×η) (where η is the pump efficiency), which is the theoretical basis for the motor power.

2. Select the Appropriate Motor Type

Different motors are suitable for different control and operation requirements:

3. Strictly Match the Motor Speed with the Rated Speed of the Oil Pump

Mismatched speed will directly affect pump efficiency and service life:

•  Centrifugal Pumps: Usually matched with 1450 rpm (4-pole) or 2900 rpm (2-pole) motors;
•  Positive Displacement Pumps (such as screw pumps, gear pumps): Mostly use medium and low speeds of 980–1450 rpm to avoid oil degradation or increased wear caused by high-speed shearing;
•  Influence of Transmission Method: The speed is consistent during direct connection; the actual output speed must be checked for belt/reducer transmission.

4. Adaptation to Working Environment

The motor must adapt to the on-site physical and chemical environment:

•  High-Temperature Environment (>40℃): Derating use or selection of Class H insulated motors is required;
•  High Humidity/Dusty Areas: IP55 or IP56 protection level is recommended, and a totally enclosed (TEFC) structure is more reliable;
•  Flammable and Explosive Places (such as refineries, oil depots): Explosion-proof motors must be used, and comply with:      Gas Group (IIB or IIC)
• Temperature Class (T4/T6)
• Certification Standards (such as Ex d IIB T4, ATEX / NEC)

5. Installation Method: Balance Between Space and Reliability

Common installation forms and applicable scenarios:

• B3 (Horizontal Foot Mounting): Strong versatility, good heat dissipation, suitable for ground pump rooms;
• B5/B35 (Vertical Flange Mounting): Saves space, often used in pipe galleries or compact layouts, but attention should be paid to bearing load capacity;
• Flange Direct Connection (such as B14/B34): Compact structure, high alignment accuracy, suitable for small gear pumps.

6. Life Cycle Cost (LCC) is Superior to Initial Price

Low-cost motors often cut corners on key materials such as silicon steel sheets, copper wires, and bearings, leading to:

•  Low efficiency (the efficiency difference between IE1 and IE3 can reach 5%~8%);
•  Excessive temperature rise, accelerating insulation aging;
•  High failure rate, and the indirect production stop loss is far more than the price difference of the purchased machine.

Recommendation: For equipment that operates continuously for >4000 hours/year, prioritize investing in IE3/IE4 high-efficiency motors — the payback period is usually <2 years.

7. Verification and Testing: The Final Link from Theory to Practice

Selection ≠ Completion. Before official commissioning, the following must be carried out:

•  No-Load Test Run: Monitor current balance, vibration value (ISO 10816 standard), and temperature rise;
•  Loaded Performance Test: Verify whether the designed flow rate and pressure are achieved under rated operating conditions;
•  72-Hour Continuous Assessment: Observe thermal stability, protection device response, and noise changes.

8. Brand and Service System: Implicit but Critical Guarantee

In continuous production industries such as petrochemical and energy, the loss of one hour of shutdown may far exceed the price of the motor itself. Therefore, it is recommended:

•  Choose brands with successful cases in process industry (such as ABB, Siemens, Wolong, Jiamusi, etc.);
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•  Confirm that the supplier provides:Rapid response technical support
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•  Local spare parts inventory
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•  Installation and commissioning guidance
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•  Check whether the product has passed certifications such as API 541/547, CCC, CE, ATEX

Conclusion: Selection is a Systematic Project, Not a Single Parameter Comparison

The selection of an oil pump motor is by no means "as long as the power is sufficient". It needs to comprehensively consider multiple factors such as process requirements, safety specifications, energy efficiency policies, and operation and maintenance logic. Teffiko, with its professional experience in the field of industrial motors, has always advocated this systematic selection concept. Only by comprehensively considering these eight dimensions and relying on reliable brand support like Teffiko can the truly safe, reliable, energy-saving and economical operation goals be achieved.