Bell & Gossett ecocirc® ECM Pumps

What is ECM?

ECM stands for Electronically Commutated Motor. They are brushless DC, 3-phase motors. In the simplest explanation, these motors can vary in speed, giving more features to the system it is coupled with, and providing better performance and electrical consumption than a standard induction motor when sized and selected properly. These motors are referred to as either ECM motors or EC motors. Both mean the same, as ECM stands for Electronically Commutated Motor.

ECM has three major components:

1. Three-Phase Motor with Permanent Magnet Rotor – The primary mover of the system. The permanent magnet rotor is what gives the motor its speed-varying capability.
2. Electronic Control Module – This converts the source power to the power that is compatible with the motor. ECM is mostly manufactured in 3-phase, but the control module allows it to be used on different voltages and phases depending on the specifications that the manufacturer has set for the motor.
3. Circuit Board – This is what gives the motor its “smart” capabilities. Manufacturers will have different modes programmed based on different applications, modes, and end-user controls.

ECM Motor Applications (One Pump for Many Applications)

ECM has been around as early as 1987, but it has been predominantly used in small-capacity pumps, fans, and compressors for heating, cooling, and potable water systems to increase efficiency and performance and add features such as speed control for the end-users. It is perfect for commercial and residential applications.

For example, an HVAC fan or pump can provide a better temperature distribution due to the speed control capabilities of ECM. Another would be potable water pumps; they can provide constant outlet pressures from varying inlet pressure. These are just two of the many possibilities a system coupled to an ECM motor provide.

Bell & Gossett ECM Line of Circulating Pumps

While Bell & Gossett incorporates ECM on some of their small-capacity industrial pumps, they have been giving serious attention to light commercial and residential systems. The Bell & Gossett ecocirc® line offers ways for homeowners, and businesses alike, to reduce energy consumption while providing better performance, easier operation, and more hassle-free maintenance.

Compared to a circulator running on a standard induction motor, Bell & Gossett’s ecocirc line eliminates the need for input power to magnetize the motor, thus providing a greater starting torque.

Fewer parts mean less maintenance. Only the self-lubricating pump rotor moves. And with it, the shaft, seals, and bearing have been eliminated, minimizing wear and tear.

And with its patented design, rotating the motor in any position is possible, which can be helpful if the pump buttons and controls are needed to be oriented in a certain position for easier day-to-day operation.

ecocirc vs. ecocirc e³ vs. ecocirc XL

In general, most ecocirc products can be used for either heating, cooling, or potable water. It’s just a matter of proper sizing and selecting the features you want on your pump.

Bell & Gossett ecocirc e3

Shop Bell & Gossett ecocirc e³ Whole House Potable Water Circulators

Bell & Gossett ecocirc 20-18/ecocirc+ 20-18

Shop Bell & Gossett ecocirc 20-18/ecocirc+ 20-18 Variable Speed Smart ECM Circulator Pumps

Bell & Gossett ecocirc XL

Shop Bell & Gossett ecocirc XL High Efficiency Large ECM Circulator Pumps

The table below shows various features of the pump and how each ecocirc line compares to the other:

Download the Bell & Gossett ecocirc Comparison Chart

ecocirc Pump Selection

Know your application – the body material of the ecocirc line can vary from brass, cast iron, and stainless steel. Potable water applications demand the use of lead-free brass or stainless steel. Closed-system heating/cooling will do just fine with cast iron, and open-system heating/cooling will need the corrosion-resistant qualities of stainless steel.

Assess the features that will benefit you – do you need a standard plug for your pump? Do you vary your pump operation several times throughout the year? Do you need in-depth and constant monitoring of the pump operation? Some ecocirc lines will provide features that can be essential to you.

Bigger doesn’t mean better – factoring in proper sizing, the smaller the pump, the more efficient it will run. Know your requirements on head and flow, and we can help you select the right pump for you!