• Integrated shaft-grounding ring for bearing protection

• NEMA Super Premium® (IE4)* efficiency

• Flexible configurations

ABB continues to help companies increase motor efficiency by as much as 20% by expanding the ABB Baldor-Reliance® SP4 motor™ line.

The release of the newest Baldor-Reliance SP4 motor variant featuring integrated shaft grounding technology marks the fourth phase of the ABB SP4 platform. Designed for variable speed drive (VSD) applications, SP4 shaft ground motors offer protection against electrical discharge damage. The new models combine NEMA Super Premium (IE4) efficiency with advanced bearing protection in a rolled steel frame.

Key features:

  • Integrated shaft-grounding ring – Redirects harmful shaft currents away from bearings, preventing premature wear
  • NEMA Super Premium efficiency – Achieves IE4 performance without magnets or rare earth materials, reducing energy consumption and operating costs
  • Flexible configurations – Available in 2, 4 and 6 pole; 1–10 Hp TEFC and 1–20 Hp ODP enclosures with footed and footless designs for drop-in replacement compatibility for DOL or VSD operation
  • Durability and reliability – Cooler operation extends component life; backed by a four-year warranty

ABB’s SP4 shaft ground motors deliver IE4 efficiency and integrated shaft grounding in a rolled steel frame using standard AC induction technology. This unique combination positions ABB as the market leader in energy-efficient, VSD-compatible motor solutions. The SP4 shaft-grounded motor is ideal for HVACR and pumping systems, manufacturing facilities and VSD-driven loads at risk of bearing current damage.

ABB previously introduced three different models with SP4 technology: cast iron severe duty, rolled steel open drip proof and rolled steel totally enclosed fan cooled motors. All SP4 models are available in standard or C-face, and rolled-steel versions are available in footed or footless configurations.

“Operators shouldn’t have to choose between high efficiency and bearing protection,” said Brandon Canclini, Global Product Manager, ABB. “ABB’s SP4 shaft-grounded motors delivering both in one reliable, cost-effective solution.”

The SP4 product line builds on ABB’s proven AC induction motors and features a range of motors tailored to meet diverse applications. The idea is simple: Take a proven AC induction motor design and make it better by reducing motor losses by an average of 20% while maintaining the simplicity, form, fit and function of today‘s installed base of AC induction motors.

With more than 80% of industrial electric motors operating direct on line (DOL) without using a drive, SP4 represents ABB’s commitment to improving efficiency and performance without requiring customers to make significant investments in additional technology or components.

As a standalone DOL unit, SP4 achieves NEMA Super Premium efficiency; however, when paired with a variable speed drive, even higher efficiency levels are attainable. These motors are compatible with pumps, fans, compressors and conveyors and work for all industries.

Launched in 2024, SP4 motors are available in severe-duty cast-iron motors covering a power range of 25 to 300 horsepower, and general-purpose rolled-steel models available in ¼ to 20 horsepower. SP4 is ABB’s solution for a more sustainable and efficient future driven by the need to reduce energy consumption.

*NEMA Super Premium efficiency is generally comparable to IE4 efficiency for AC induction motors operated direct on line (DOL) as defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

About ABB Motion:

ABB Motion, a global leader in motors and drives, is at the core of accelerating a more productive and sustainable future. We innovate and push the boundaries of technology to contribute to energy efficient, decarbonizing and circular solutions for customers, industries and societies. With our digitally enabled drives, motors and services we support our customers and partners to achieve better performance, safety and reliability. To help the world’s industries outrun – leaner and cleaner, we deliver motor-driven solutions for a wide range of applications in all industrial segments. Building on over 140 years of domain expertise in electric powertrains, our more than 22,000 employees across 100 countries learn and improve every day. new.abb.com/motion

ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By connecting its engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive and sustainable so they outperform. At ABB, we call this ‘Engineered to Outrun’. The company has over 140 years of history and more than 105,000 employees worldwide. ABB’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB). www.abb.com