In 1997, the Copper Development Association Inc. undertook a project to substitute copper for aluminum in the “squirrel cage” structure of the motor rotor as a means to improve the electrical energy efficiency of the induction motor. The squirrel cage is routinely die cast in aluminum today. This project successfully identified suitable high-temperature mold materials and demonstrated that operating the dies and shot sleeve at elevated temperatures could substantially extend tooling life. Having achieved this technical success, the present thrust of the project is to demonstrate the process and transfer the technology to the motor manufacturers around the world. This groundbreaking technology affects a wide spectrum of industries. Whether you manufacture motors, depend on them to keep your plant in operation, or are concerned with watts saved or pounds sold, the copper motor rotor is a pivotal advancement. As the first in a continuing series of monthly program status reports, we'll keep you updated on project milestones achieved and the constantly changing worldwide energy policies that could potentially affect this emerging new market.

Update: Copper Motor Rotor is published monthly by the Copper Development Association Inc. to provide current information of interest to those in the electric motor and related industries. CDA assumes no responsibility or liability in connection with this publication and makes no warranties of any kind with respect to the information contained herein.