The Design and Development of a New Range of Large A.C. Motors

Abstract

A small multi-disciplined project group was established to undertake the design and development of a range of medium a.c. motors, including the manufacture of a prototype machine, within a six months period.

This paper describes the development of the range fundamental design principles, manufacturing concepts and the manufacture of four prototype machines. The group were involved, at later stages, in the preparation of the range detail designs, manufacturing data, and commercial information leading to the subsequent introduction of the Unipak range into the market. This also included technical and commercial personnel training sessions.

The activities of the project group are highlighted with respect to the improvements in the specification and cost effectiveness of the product range, that were the direct results of detailed market surveys, fundamental design improvements and the emphasis on design for manufacture of the machine components.

The success of the Unipak development project is expressed in terms of the increased competitiveness of the Unipak range, improved manufacturing processes, increased specification and how this has affected other areas and aspects of the company's business.