Why Your Mixer's Motor Rating Matters

Energy costs are the single largest expense in wastewater treatment. The bulk of that energy is spent on aeration, pumping, and mixing. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) that upgrade to more energy-efficient motors in mixing and other processes can often realize a significant reduction in operating expenses (OPEX) with potentially quick returns on investment (ROI).

Most manufacturers of mixers and other motor-dependent technologies will say that newer-model equipment is generally more energy-efficient than older-model equipment. The question remains, however, just how much more efficient is the new equipment? After all, the last thing any WWTP wants to do is make a significant capital expenditure (CAPEX) for only a marginal OPEX reduction. That’s why operators and engineers need to familiarize themselves with energy efficiency standards, such as those by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).