Proper motor installation and mounting position is essential in obtaining top-quality operation, efficient performance, and maximum reliability. Sometimes, however, there is confusion about the many different ways a motor can be installed.
There are two different standards—NEMA and IEC— which you will see when looking at electric motor mounting positions. Although they are generally comparable, there are slight differences between the two.
The standard IEC mounting position places the junction box on the top of the motor, known as the IM B3 mounting position in IEC frame (or F3 in NEMA frames). On the other hand, the NEMA standard mounting position is referred to as F1, with the junction/conduit box located on the left side of the motor facing the output shaft.
The design of most motors is such that they can usually be operated in many mounting positions, unless indicated otherwise. Some mounting positions, however, require additional construction modifications to achieve optimal performance. For example, shaft-up or shaft-down outdoor applications may require drilling of additional drain holes, drip covers and stronger bearings to support heavy loads. Don't just assume you can bolt any motor in any orientation!
Below is a visual reference of typical electric motor mounting positions. Whether you're an installer, engineer, or maintainer, this is a must -have reference.
Motor Mounting Arrangements (IEC standard 60034-7)
| IM Ref# | Shaft | Feet | Mount |
|---|---|---|---|
| IM 1001 / IM B3 | Horizontal | on Floor | Foot |
| IM 1071 / IM B8 | Horizontal | on ceiling | Foot |
| IM 1051 / IM B6 | Horizontal | Wall mounted (feet lhs when viewed from drive end) | Foot |
| IM 1011 / IM V5 | Vertical | on wall | Foot |
| IM 1061 / IM B7 | Horizontal | Wall mounted (feet rhs when viewed from drive end) | Foot |
| IM 1031 / IM V6 | Vertical | on wall | Foot |
| IM 3001 / IM B5 | Horizontal | Flange | |
| IM 2001 / IM B35 | Horizontal | on Floor | Flange |
| IM 3011 / IM V1 | Vertical (facing down) | Flange | |
| IM 2011 / IM V15 | Vertical (facing down) | on wall | Flange |
| IM 3031 / IM V3 | Vertical (facing up) | Flange | |
| IM 2031 / IM V36 | Vertical (facing up) | on wall | Flange |
| IM 3601 / IM B14 | Horizontal | Face | |
| IM 2101 / IM B34 | Horizontal | on wall | Face |
| IM 3611 / IM V18 | Vertical (facing down) | Face | |
| IM 2111 / IM V58 | Vertical (facing down) | on wall | Face |
| IM 3631 / IM V19 | Vertical (facing up) | Face | |
| IM 2131 / IM V69 | Vertical (facing up) | on wall | Face |
| IM 9101 / IM B9 | Horizontal | threaded tie rods | No drive end shield |
| IM 1201 / IM B15 | Horizontal | feet and threaded tie rods | No drive end shield |
| IM Ref# | Shaft | Feet | Mount |
Drives and Automation Ltd are a ‘one-stop’ independent shop for a full range of industrial automation products and system integration services. We provide drive modules, motors, control systems and PLC / SCADA solutions. Independent advice is provided on the most suited product by application. In addition we offer a variety of drive accessories. We are the UK agent for the Sicme Motori range of AC and DC motors.