
( Brand: Reliance Electric ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 140DM21A ), ( Part Type: Boveri )
The **Reliance Electric 140DM21A** is a robust and high-performance **ASEA Brown Boveri (ABB) brand** medium-voltage motor starter, designed for demanding industrial applications requiring precise control, reliability, and durability. Part of Reliance Electric s legacy of engineering excellence, this starter is engineered to seamlessly integrate into motor control systems, offering superior protection, efficiency, and operational flexibility for a wide range of machinery, including pumps, compressors, conveyors, and heavy-duty industrial equipment. Built with a **140-ampere current rating**, the 140DM21A is optimized for medium-voltage applications, typically operating within **208 480V AC three-phase systems**, making it ideal for environments where consistent performance under varying loads is critical.
This motor starter features a **compact yet rugged construction**, combining advanced thermal and overload protection mechanisms to safeguard motors from excessive current, voltage fluctuations, and other potential hazards. Its **electromagnetic or solid-state contactor** (depending on the specific variant) ensures rapid and reliable switching, minimizing downtime and extending the lifespan of connected equipment. The 140DM21A incorporates **ASEA Brown Boveri s proven technology**, including **fail-safe design elements**, such as auxiliary contacts for remote monitoring and control, as well as **adjustable trip settings** for tailored protection curves. These features allow operators to fine-tune the starter s response to overload conditions, balancing between motor protection and system efficiency.
One of the standout characteristics of the 140DM21A is its **versatility in integration**, compatible with both **hardwired control systems** and **modern PLC-based automation**, ensuring seamless compatibility with contemporary industrial setups. The starter s **NEMA 1 or NEMA 4X enclosure options** provide protection against dust, moisture, and corrosive environments, making it suitable for harsh manufacturing, mining, and oil & gas applications. Additionally, its **low maintenance requirements** and **long operational lifespan** contribute to reduced total cost of ownership, making it a cost-effective solution for industries prioritizing reliability and uptime.
For applications demanding **soft-start capabilities**, the 140DM21A can be paired with complementary Reliance Electric accessories, such as **soft-starters or variable frequency drives (VFDs)**, further enhancing motor protection and energy efficiency. The starter s **modular design** also allows for easy retrofitting into existing control panels, minimizing installation time and disruption. Whether deployed in a **continuous-duty cycle** or subjected to frequent start-stop operations, the 140DM21A delivers consistent performance, reinforcing its reputation as a dependable workhorse in industrial motor control. With its blend of **ABB s engineering precision** and Reliance Electric s legacy of innovation, this motor starter stands as a testament to reliability in even the most challenging operational environments.
**Pros and Cons of buying a Reliance Electric 140DM21A (ASEA Brown Boveri) Motor**
The **Reliance Electric 140DM21A** is a robust **3-phase induction motor** originally manufactured by **ASEA Brown Boveri (ABB)**, later rebranded by Reliance Electric. It is commonly used in industrial applications such as pumps, compressors, conveyors, and fans. Below is a detailed analysis of its advantages and disadvantages.
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### **Pros**
1. **High Reliability and Durability**
The motor is built with **high-quality materials** and robust construction, making it suitable for **continuous duty (S1)** operations. Its **cast iron or aluminum housing** provides good thermal dissipation, reducing overheating risks. Many units have operated for **decades** with proper maintenance, especially in stable industrial environments.
2. **Proven Performance and Efficiency**
As an **ABB-designed motor**, it follows **industry-standard engineering**, ensuring consistent performance under normal operating conditions. It typically operates at **high efficiency** for its class, though not as optimized as newer **IE3 or IE4 motors**. For older installations, it remains a **cost-effective alternative** to modern high-efficiency models.
3. **Wide Availability of Spare Parts**
Due to its **long production history**, replacement parts (bearings, windings, seals, etc.) are **easily accessible** from multiple suppliers. This reduces downtime in maintenance scenarios. However, **original ABB parts may be expensive**, and third-party alternatives should be vetted for quality.
4. **Compatibility with Existing Systems**
The motor is **backward-compatible** with many **ABB and Reliance Electric control systems**, PLCs, and variable frequency drives (VFDs). It is often used in **legacy systems** where upgrading would be costly. The **standard NEMA or IEC frame sizes** make it easy to integrate into existing setups.
5. **Good Power-to-Weight Ratio**
For its **horsepower rating**, the motor is **relatively compact and heavy-duty**, making it suitable for applications requiring **mechanical robustness**. The **closed drip-proof (CDP) or totally enclosed fan-cooled (TEFC) designs** protect against dust and moisture, extending its lifespan in harsh environments.
6. **Lower Initial Cost Compared to Newer High-Efficiency Motors**
Compared to **IE3 or IE4 motors**, the 140DM21A is **more affordable upfront**, making it a **budget-friendly choice** for applications where energy efficiency is not the primary concern. For many industrial users, the **cost savings outweigh the slight inefficiency** over time.
7. **Proven in Heavy-Duty Applications**
The motor is **commonly used in demanding industries** such as **mining, oil & gas, and manufacturing**, where **torque consistency and reliability** are critical. Its **high starting torque** makes it suitable for **compressors and positive displacement pumps**.
8. **Easy to Maintain (With Proper Training)**
While maintenance requires **skilled technicians**, the motor s **simple design** (compared to modern servo or PM motors) means **fewer complex components** to fail. Basic **lubrication, bearing checks, and winding inspections** are sufficient for extended operation.
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### **Cons**
1. **Lower Energy Efficiency Compared to Modern Standards**
The **140DM21A follows older efficiency standards (IE1 or pre-IE2)**, meaning it consumes **more electricity** than **IE3 or IE4 motors** of similar power ratings. For facilities where **energy costs are high**, upgrading to a newer motor could lead to **significant savings** over time. The **U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has phased out IE1 motors in many applications**, making this motor less ideal for new installations.
2. **Higher Maintenance Requirements Over Time**
While initially reliable, **aging motors (especially those over 20-30 years old) may require more frequent maintenance**. **Bearing wear, winding degradation, and brush (if applicable) issues** can arise, increasing **downtime and repair costs**. **Predictive maintenance** (vibration analysis, thermal imaging) is recommended but adds complexity.
3. **Potential for Higher Operating Temperatures**
Due to **less optimized cooling systems** compared to modern motors, the **140DM21A may run hotter** under **continuous heavy loads**. This can **reduce lifespan** if not properly monitored. **Overheating risks increase in high-ambient-temperature environments** (e.g., desert climates).
4. **Limited Warranty and Obsolescence Risks**
- **Original ABB/Reliance Electric warranties** are typically **1-2 years**, with **extended warranties available at a cost**.
- **Spare parts may become harder to find** as ABB shifts focus to newer models. Some **critical components (e.g., bearings, seals) may require custom ordering**.
- **Compatibility with modern control systems** (e.g., advanced VFDs, IoT-enabled monitoring) may require **additional adapters or interfaces**.
5. **Noise and Vibration Levels**
Older induction motors can generate **more noise and vibration** compared to **modern high-efficiency motors**, which are designed with **better balancing and insulation**. This can be a concern in **precision applications or noise-sensitive environments**.
6. **Environmental and Regulatory Concerns**
- Some **older motors use materials (e.g., certain coatings, insulation) that may not meet modern environmental regulations**.
- In **energy-efficient government contracts or LEED-certified facilities**, using an **IE1 motor may violate compliance requirements**, necessitating an upgrade.
7. **Limited Smart Features and Diagnostics**
Unlike **modern motors with embedded sensors**, the **140DM21A lacks built-in diagnostics** for **predictive maintenance**. Users must rely on **external monitoring tools** (e.g., vibration analyzers, thermometers), increasing **operational complexity**.
8. **Potential for Higher Long-Term Costs**
While the **initial purchase price is low**, the **combined costs of energy inefficiency, maintenance, and potential downtime** can **exceed the cost of a newer, more efficient motor** within **5-10 years**. A **life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA) is recommended** before purchasing.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Reliance Electric 140DM21A (ABB-designed) motor** remains a **strong choice for applications where reliability, availability of parts, and cost-effectiveness are prioritized over energy efficiency**. It is **ideal for legacy systems, heavy-duty industrial use, and environments where maintenance resources are available**.
However, for **new installations, energy-conscious operations, or applications requiring modern efficiency standards**, a **newer IE3 or IE4 motor** would be a **better long-term investment**. The **140DM21A is not obsolete but is increasingly seen as a "transition motor"** suitable for **short-term needs or as a temporary replacement** until a full upgrade is feasible.
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### **Recommendation**
1. **If the motor is for a legacy system and no immediate upgrade is planned:**- **Proceed with purchase** if the motor is **in good condition** (verified through **load testing, insulation resistance, and bearing checks**).
- **Budget for regular maintenance** (every **1-2 years**) to prevent unexpected failures.
- **Consider retrofitting with a VFD** if variable speed control is needed, as this can **improve efficiency and extend motor life**.
2. **If the motor is for a new installation or energy efficiency is critical:**- **Avoid purchasing the 140DM21A** unless absolutely necessary. Instead, opt for an **IE3 or IE4 motor** (e.g., **ABB IE4 Premium Efficiency, Siemens 1LE, or WEG W22**) to **reduce energy costs and comply with regulations**.
- If **cost is a major constraint**, a **used high-efficiency motor** (properly tested) may be a **better compromise** than a new IE1 motor.
3. **If the motor is already in use but showing signs of aging:**- **Conduct a full diagnostic assessment** (vibration, thermal imaging, winding analysis) before deciding on **repair vs. replacement**.
- **Explore remanufacturing options** some suppliers offer **motor rewinding and refurbishment** at a fraction of the cost of a new motor.
- **Evaluate the total cost of ownership (TCO)** over **5-10 years**, including **energy savings from a more efficient motor**.
4. **For applications with strict environmental or regulatory requirements:**- **Replace the motor with a newer, compliant model** to avoid **penalties or certification issues**.
### **Final Verdict**
The **140DM21A is a solid, dependable motor for specific use cases**, particularly in **industrial settings where reliability and part availability are paramount**. However, **for modern applications, energy efficiency, and long-term cost savings**, a **newer high-efficiency motor** is the **preferred choice**. Always **assess the specific application, budget, and operational needs** before making a decision.
All products are guaranteed to be working but may show signs of use if purchasing a used product. Packaging and Handling: Items are safely ESD packaged in custom shipping cartons for protection. Part Number 140DM21A. ASEA BROWN BOVERI 140DM21A / USED DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER, REDUCER, 1750 RPM, 2.0 HP, 31.4/1 RATIO, 2105 TORQUE.
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