The long string of letters and numbers you encounter when ordering an IE3 motor (for example, something like "IE3 100L 4 B5 400V") is actually an order or type code that summarizes all the motor's basic features. If you can read this code correctly, you understand the motor's power, speed, mounting type, frame size and options at a glance; you can replace a failed motor without error or place a complete new order. Misreading the code, on the other hand, means a motor that arrives with the wrong frame, wrong mounting or missing options and does not fit the machine. In this guide we decode the IE3 motor order code piece by piece, explaining what each field means and how to use it when ordering. Note: this article focuses on the composite order code; nameplate reading and CE certification are separate topics.

What Is an Order Code, and How Does It Differ from the Nameplate?

The motor nameplate is the metal plate fixed onto the motor showing the measured rated values (kW, current, cosφ, efficiency, speed). The order code, by contrast, is a structured string that describes the motor and is used in the manufacturer's catalogs and quotations. The order code defines "what you want"; the nameplate confirms "what you received." The two complement each other: you order with the correct code and confirm it with the nameplate of the motor that arrives.

We addressed how to read the nameplate and which fields are essential when ordering in our nameplate and label reading article, and verifying the nameplate efficiency value and IE code in the field in our efficiency value and IE code reading content. In this article we decode the composite code that makes up the order.

The Basic Fields of the Order Code

An IE3 motor order code generally includes these basic fields: efficiency class (IE3), frame size, pole count, mounting type, voltage/frequency and option letters. Each field locks in one feature of the motor. Now let us examine these fields one by one.

Efficiency Class: IE3

The IE3 expression in the code indicates the motor's efficiency class. Under Turkish and EU regulation, a minimum IE3 is mandatory for DOL three-phase motors of 0.75 kW and above. We addressed which power requires which class from which date in our IE3 and IE4 efficiency mandate article, and when choosing IE4 instead of IE3 makes sense in our stay with IE3 or move to IE4 content. Seeing IE3 in the code shows the motor is in a regulation-compliant efficiency class.

Power (kW) and Frame Relationship

Some order codes include the power (kW or HP) as a separate field, while in others the power is determined indirectly from the frame size and pole combination. The same frame size can give different powers at different pole counts; for example, a 100L frame may be 3 kW at 4 poles while giving a higher power at 2 poles. So even if you do not see the power directly in the code, the frame + pole combination implies it. Correct power-frame matching matters so that the motor fully meets your need. You can find stock and speed selection at specific powers in our IE3 stock guide article.

Frame Size: For Example 100L, 132M

The number-letter combination in the code (56, 63, 71, 80, 90S/L, 100L, 112M, 132S/M, 160M/L ...) indicates the frame size, that is the IEC build size. The number gives the motor's axis height (mm); for example, 100 means the shaft center is 100 mm above the foot. The letter (S, M, L) expresses the length (short/medium/long) of the frame at the same axis height. The frame size is the key to mechanical compatibility because it sets the foot hole spacing, shaft diameter and flange dimensions.

You can find the relationship between frame size and shaft diameter and the IEC 56-355 table in our shaft diameter and frame table article. In a replacement order, matching the frame size exactly to the old motor is essential; otherwise the motor will not seat onto the machine.

Pole Count / Speed: 2, 4, 6, 8

The pole count in the code (2P, 4P or simply 2, 4, 6, 8) determines the motor's speed. On a 50 Hz supply, 2-pole runs at ~3000 rpm, 4-pole at ~1500 rpm, 6-pole at ~1000 rpm and 8-pole at ~750 rpm. A different pole count at the same frame and power means different torque and speed. We addressed pole selection in our 2/4/6 pole selection guide article, and the pole-speed relationship in our slip and actual speed content.

IE3 motor order code decoding: frame, pole, mounting and option

Mounting Type: B3, B5, B14, B35

The mounting code in the code (IM B3, IM B5, IM B14, IM B35 or briefly B3/B5/B14/B35) determines how the motor connects to the machine. B3 is foot-mounted, B5 large flange, B14 small flange, and B35 a foot + large flange combination. If vertical mounting is involved, position expressions such as IM V1/V5 appear in the code. We addressed reading the mounting code in our IM mounting code reading article, and the B5/B14/B35 flange range in detail in our flange and mounting range content. Misreading the mounting code results in a motor that cannot physically fit onto the machine.

Voltage and Frequency: 400V / 50 Hz

The voltage-frequency field in the code (for example 230/400V 50Hz or 400/690V 50Hz) indicates the motor's supply voltage and connection. A 230/400V motor connects in star on a 400V supply and in delta at 230V line voltage. We addressed correct bridging in our star/delta winding connection and voltage article, and 50/60 Hz compatibility for export and multi-country plants in our multi-voltage and 50/60 Hz compatibility content. Decoding the voltage field correctly ensures the motor connects to your supply properly.

Option Letters: Brake, PTC, Forced Fan and Others

The option letters at the end of the order code indicate special equipment added to the motor. Although these vary by manufacturer, common ones are: brake (an electromagnetic brake integrated into the motor), PTC or PT100 (winding thermal protection sensor), forced cooling fan (an external fan, especially for low speed with a VFD), space heater (an anti-condensation heater), encoder (speed/position feedback) and double shaft. Seeing these letters in the code shows the motor has these non-standard features.

We compiled these accessory options and correct ordering in our accessory options: brake, encoder, forced fan article. We addressed wiring the thermal protection sensor (PTC/PT100) correctly in our thermal protection wiring content, and humidity protection in our tropicalization and space heater article. Skipping the option letters leads to a feature you need arriving missing.

Protection Class and Insulation Options

Some order codes also include the protection class (IP55, IP65, IP66) and the insulation class (F, H). A standard motor is IP55 and Class F; for a dusty or wet environment, IP65/IP66 is stated in the code. We addressed protection class selection in our IP protection class selection article, and the IP65/IP66 upgrade in our IP65/IP66 protection upgrade content. Confirming the protection class in the code guarantees the motor suits the environment it will work in.

IE3 order code option letters brake PTC forced fan decoding

Information Not in the Code but Important for Ordering

The order code summarizes the motor's main features; however, some information is not in the code and must be stated separately when ordering. Foremost among these are the rated current, power factor (cosφ) and service factor (SF); these values are on the nameplate and are needed to size the installation. For example, to select the correct cable cross-section, fuse and contactor, you need to know the motor's rated current. We addressed this selection in our rated current, cable and fuse article.

The terminal box orientation and cable entry side are also not always in the code but matter according to the panel side; you can see our terminal box and cable entry side content on this. The motor's weight should also be known for shipping and installation planning; in large frames this can be critical for lifting and handling. Asking for these complementary details alongside the code makes the order complete.

Example Decoding: Step by Step

Suppose the code is "IE3 132M 4P B35 400V PTC FAN". Let us decode it: IE3 = premium efficiency class; 132M = IEC 132 frame, medium length; 4P = 4 poles, about 1500 rpm; B35 = foot + large flange combined mounting; 400V = 400V three-phase supply (star); PTC = winding thermal sensor option; FAN = forced cooling fan option. Someone reading this code can tell, before ordering, whether the motor fits their machine. In a replacement order, giving the old motor's code exactly is the fastest and most error-free method.

In replacement and equivalent selection, the IEC connection dimensions matching is important; you can see our equivalent and replacement selection article on this. To compare the nameplate of the arriving motor with the code at stock entry, our incoming and acceptance inspection content provides guidance.

The Most Common Mistakes in Decoding the Code

The most common mistake when reading the order code is ignoring the letter (S/M/L) in the frame size. For example, ordering 132M instead of 132S changes the motor's power and length, which can lead to a motor that does not fit the machine. The second common mistake is skipping the pole count: the same power at a different pole count means completely different speed and torque. The third mistake is neglecting the option letters; for example, if you need a brake motor but do not state the brake option in the code, a non-brake motor arrives and your application will not work.

The way to avoid these mistakes is to read the code systematically field by field and compare it exactly with the old motor's code. Especially for replacement orders, we compiled the common mistakes made when buying a motor in our mistakes when buying an electric motor article. For correct power-speed matching, you can also see our pole count and efficiency content.

Differences Between Brands and Replacement

Because the basic logic of the order code (frame, pole, mounting, voltage, option) is based on the IEC standard, it is largely similar across manufacturers; however, each brand's option letters and their order can differ. So when matching one brand's code with another brand's equivalent, you must verify what the letters mean. What matters is that the physical features the code defines (frame size, shaft diameter, flange, pole) match; even if the letter notation differs, replacement is possible if the motor is mechanically and electrically equivalent.

In equivalent selection, the IEC connection dimensions matching is decisive; our equivalent and replacement selection article is detailed on this. To verify the replacement motor by comparing its nameplate with the code at stock entry, the steps in our incoming and acceptance inspection content provide guidance.

CE, Declaration of Conformity and Documents

The order code defines the motor's technical features; however, in import and purchasing, the motor's CE marking and declaration of conformity (DoC) along with MEPS certification are also required. These documents officially verify that the efficiency class (IE3) the code defines is actually met. We addressed CE and the declaration of conformity in detail in our CE and declaration of conformity (DoC) article. While this article focuses on decoding the composite order code, you can find the certification side in our related article.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the order code and the motor nameplate the same thing?

No. The order code is a structured string that describes the motor and defines "what you want"; it is used in the manufacturer's catalogs and quotations. The nameplate, by contrast, is fixed onto the motor, shows the measured rated values and confirms "what you received." The two complement each other: you order with the correct code and confirm with the arriving nameplate.

What does the letter (S, M, L) in the frame size mean?

The number in the frame size indicates the axis height (mm), and the letter indicates the length of the frame at the same axis height: S means short, M medium and L long. For example, 132S and 132M have the same axis height but different lengths and usually different power. So in a replacement order both the number and the letter must be matched.

What is the fastest way to order a replacement motor?

It is to give the order code from the failed motor's nameplate or catalog exactly. Because the code contains the efficiency class, frame, pole, mounting, voltage and options in a single string, when read correctly it fully describes a motor that fits the machine exactly and minimizes ordering errors.

Get a Quote

Contact us to decode the IE3 motor order code in hand or to supply a new IE3 motor suited to your machine with the correct code. Send us the existing motor's code or nameplate information, and we will determine a motor that matches yours exactly together. Phone: +90 (532) 345 49 86. For a detailed quote, you can use our contact page.

Pre-Order Checklist

  • Has the efficiency class (IE3) been verified in the code?
  • Does the frame size (number + S/M/L) match the old motor?
  • Has the pole count / speed been decoded correctly?
  • Has the mounting type (B3/B5/B14/B35, and V1/V5 if needed) been clarified?
  • Are the voltage and frequency (400V/50Hz, star/delta) correct?
  • Have the required option letters (brake, PTC, forced fan, etc.) been added?
  • Has the protection class (IP55/IP65/IP66) been stated per the environment?
  • Has the arriving motor's nameplate been compared with the order code?