Innovative ECO2 Range Reduces CO2 Emissions by 3%
Normanton-based SEW-EURODRIVE UK, a global leader in gear units and drive technology, has unveiled its new ECO2 range of geared motors, addressing the growing demand for sustainable industrial solutions.
The ECO2 gearmotors are designed with a coating-free aluminium housing, eliminating the need for solvent-based coatings on outer surfaces. This breakthrough innovation enhances both ecological and economic efficiency, reflecting SEW-EURODRIVE's commitment to sustainability.
A Greener Solution
The use of aluminium housings, naturally resistant to corrosion, removes the need for additional coatings. Aluminium’s protective oxide layer ensures the gearmotors can operate effectively in shielded environments, such as those protected from extreme heat, cold, or moisture.
By eliminating the energy-intensive drying phase associated with traditional coating processes, SEW-EURODRIVE has significantly reduced resource consumption. This innovation also decreases the use of cleaning agents, resulting in a cleaner and more energy-efficient manufacturing process.
Simplified Maintenance and Recycling
Uncoated components offer practical advantages, including reduced maintenance needs, as there is no requirement for recoating after repairs. Furthermore, the design simplifies recycling at the end of the product lifecycle, enhancing both sustainability and cost efficiency.
These motors meet ISO 12944 corrosive category 1 standards, making them suitable for environments with up to 60% humidity and operational temperatures ranging from -20°C to 60°C. This ensures reliable performance in specific indoor applications like logistics centres, where coatings are unnecessary.
A Broader Portfolio
SEW-EURODRIVE has long provided uncoated aluminium drives for smaller applications. The ECO2 range represents a significant expansion, offering a wider variety of gearmotor combinations for broader industrial use.
The removal of the coating process has led to a 3% reduction in CO2 emissions, a step towards more sustainable manufacturing. These savings are passed directly to customers, offering them an environmentally friendly solution at a competitive price point.
Driving Change in Sustainable Manufacturing
Andy Turner, Sales and Operations Manager for SEW-EURODRIVE UK, commented:
“At SEW-EURODRIVE we are prioritising reducing our environmental impact and responsibly using raw materials.
“The ECO2 coating-free drives are a significant step to a more sustainable manufacturing process and set new standards for environmental protection while retaining the robust performance SEW-EURODRIVE customers expect. The name ‘ECO2’ highlights two key benefits: ECOLogical and ECONomical as the drives are both eco-friendly and cost-effective. They protect the environment while being offered at a competitive price.
“The design also enables a more efficient material cycle, making it easier to recycle components at the end of their life cycle. In situations where drive components are used in indoor areas such as logistics halls, painting or coating is generally unnecessary, further contributing to both sustainability and economic efficiency.”
The ECO2 range, which has undergone a successful soft launch, is now available across the UK as the standard offering for SEW-EURODRIVE gearmotor solutions.