In this episode, we talk with Abel Cavazos with ABB's Motion High Power division on the importance of having the right motor bearing. Abel also highlights sleeve bearings on the RXT motor. https://search.abb.com/library/Download.aspx?DocumentID=9AKK108472A8245&LanguageCode=en&DocumentPartId=&Action=Launch

In this episode of the ABB Solutions Podcast, host Mike Murphy is joined by Robert Boyce, ABB U.S. Division Manager for IEC Low Voltage Motors, to discuss how motors are designed to perform in aggressive applications like crushers in the aggregate industry. From heavy shock loads to extreme environmental conditions, crushers push motors to their limits. Robert shares how ABB designs motors to handle high starting torque, mechanical stress, vibration and contamination, all while maintaining re...

In this episode of the ABB Solutions Podcast, host Mike Murphy wraps up the motor starting methods series with a deep dive into variable frequency drives (VFDs). Joined by an ABB Drives expert, the conversation explores how VFDs provide advanced motor control by adjusting frequency, voltage, and torque to match application demands. Building on previous discussions around full voltage starters and soft starters, this episode highlights how VFDs go beyond startup—offering continuous control, im...

In this episode of the ABB Solutions Podcast, host Mike Murphy continues the motor starting methods series with a closer look at soft starters. Joined by Brion Flaningam, ABB Drives Technical Instructor, the conversation explores how soft starters regulate voltage, reduce inrush current, and provide a smoother alternative to traditional motor starting methods. Building on the fundamentals from the previous episode, this discussion highlights when soft starters are the right choice and how the...

In this episode of the ABB Solutions Podcast, host Mike Murphy is joined by Brion Flaningam, ABB Drives Technical Instructor, to break down the fundamentals of motor starting methods. Based on a recent webinar, this episode walks through the basics of motor types, full voltage starters, and reduced voltage starting methods. Brian explains how different starters manage inrush current, how traditional direct online methods compare to more advanced approaches, and why Y delta starters are common...

In this episode of the ABB Solutions Podcast, host Mike Murphy is joined by Priit Noor from ABB’s High Power Division and Tim Salibi, Wind Segment Sales Manager at ABB. They discuss how wind energy has evolved into a reliable and scalable power source and how operators can better manage critical wind assets over their lifecycle. Tune in to hear insights on: The Evolution of Wind Power: How wind energy has scaled from early generation systems to multi-megawatt turbines that support today’s gri...

In this episode of the ABB Solutions Podcast, host Mike Murphy is joined by Randy Stevens, North American Training Manager for Automation Solutions. They explore the “Good, Better, Best” mindset and how it applies far beyond product comparisons, impacting project execution, training, team performance, and continuous improvement. Randy explains why striving for perfection too early can stall progress and why delivering something good is often far better than delivering nothing at all. Tune in ...

In this episode of the ABB Solutions Podcast, host Mike Murphy continues the discussion with Abel Cavazos and Wayne Paschal from ABB’s High Power Division. This second installment focuses on how environmental conditions, enclosure selection, and proper monitoring can significantly impact motor life and reliability, especially in high-power and high-criticality applications. Tune in to hear insights on: Motor Enclosure Selection: How WP2, TFC, TX, and TWAC designs differ, when each is appropri...

In this episode of the ABB Solutions Podcast, host Mike Murphy is joined by Randy Stevens, North American Training Manager for Automation Solutions. They discuss the value of mentorship and how it strengthens both personal and professional growth. Randy explains how mentors help accelerate development through active listening, guiding questions, and supportive accountability. He also highlights how mentorship improves onboarding, builds confidence, and reinforces leadership skills within an o...

In this episode of the ABB Solutions Podcast, host Mike Murphy is joined by Abel Cavazos and Wayne Paschal from ABB’s High Power Division. The discussion focuses on understanding criticality levels in motor applications, how they impact equipment selection, and what facilities should consider to reduce procurement time and increase reliability. Tune in to hear insights on: Understanding Criticality: How CR1–CR4 ratings impact production risk, repair strategy, and motor specification.Purchasin...