Amending API 541: An Overview of the New Requirements and Improvements of the Fifth Edition

The fifth edition of American Petroleum Institute (API) 541 was written by a task force of users, consultants, and manufacturers to provide a common performance standard to cover the minimum requirements for form-wound squirrel-cage induction motors 375 kW (500 hp) and larger. The standard is designed to outline the requirements of all aspects of an induction machine. When compared to the earlier editions, this revision has enhancements that make purchasing and specifying a more durable machine easier. This edition has new requirements in the areas of frame vibration and insulation tests plus improved sections concerning dynamic analysis and thermal withstand capabilities. The standard is used in conjunction with the extensively modified data sheets. This article provides an overview of the revisions to API 541 contained in the new edition.