ITT Launches VIDAR, a Revolutionary Industrial Smart Motor that Improves Performance, Reliability, and Simplicity in Fluid Process Systems

Syracuse, N.Y.– VIDAR, an ITT Inc. (NYSE: ITT) company, introduces VIDAR, a new type of motor that embeds variable-speed intelligence directly into the motor to achieve new levels of performance, reliability, and simplicity in industrial applications involving pumps, fans, and fluid process systems. VIDAR lowers energy usage and CO2 emissions, reduces costs, increases equipment lifespan, and enhances process controls, resulting in decreased utility bills, maintenance expenses, and downtime. 

VIDAR’s benefits stem from its patented AC-Link technology, which replaces conventional AC-to-DC-to-AC Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) technology with a streamlined AC-to-AC approach. By removing the DC stage, bulky capacitors are eliminated, shrinking the VFD by 60%, and enabling the motor and VFD to be combined into a single, compact solution. This design enables VIDAR to fit seamlessly into the footprint of a conventional motor and eliminates the need for special wiring, additional enclosures, or extra space required with traditional VFD and motor setups. 

VIDAR is purpose-built for industrial facilities. It uses a high-efficiency synchronous reluctance magnet-assisted motor designed using IEEE-841 specifications, meets CSA Class 1 Division 2 for hazardous areas, and meets IEEE-519 power quality standards for dependable performance even in the toughest environments. 

By embedding variable-speed intelligence directly into the motor, VIDAR eliminates the need for inefficient and failure-prone mechanical controls, such as throttled valves or dampers. By using exactly the amount of energy required for the task, VIDAR reduces energy use and CO2 emissions by up to 50% as compared to a fixed speed motor and mechanical control. Cutting energy waste and operating at optimal speeds prolongs the life of the equipment, lowering maintenance costs and reducing downtime. 

VIDAR’s precise motor speed control also ensures consistent flow rates, improves product quality, and seamlessly adapts to changing workloads for greater operational flexibility and cost-efficiency scalability. 

VIDAR’s performance capabilities were evaluated and assessed through thousands of hours of rigorous testing in a variety of harsh industrial environments. In one example, replacing a single fixed-speed motor on an industrial pump with VIDAR enabled the control valve to open at 100%, up from 35%, slowing down the pump to about 75% of its maximum speed. This decreased power consumption by 52% and is equivalent to powering 30 average U.S. homes for an entire year, all while delivering the same flow as before.