Determine how efficiently an electric motor converts electrical energy into mechanical work.
Power Ratings
Results
Enter input and output power values
About this calculator
Overview
Motor efficiency is the percentage of electrical power consumption that is successfully converted into useful mechanical rotational power. Energy that is not converted into mechanical work is lost primarily as heat due to internal resistance and friction.
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Pro Tips
Ensure both input and output power values are in the same unit (e.g., both in Watts or both in kW).
Mechanical output power is often listed as the motor's 'Nameplate HP'. 1 HP ≈ 0.7457 kW.
A motor's efficiency is usually highest when it is operating at between 75% and 100% of its rated capacity.
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Fun Facts
"High-efficiency motors (IE3/IE4 standards) can reduce energy consumption by up to 5% compared to standard models."
"Most industrial electricity is consumed by motors, so efficiency improvements have massive environmental and financial impacts."
"Friction in the bearings and 'windage' (resistance from the cooling fan) are two of the main sources of efficiency loss in a rotating motor."