Two things wear a stored motor most: moisture and vibration. The catalogue therefore asks for motors to be kept in a dry, vibration-free place and for the shaft to be turned periodically.

  • Dry place: stores with large day–night temperature swings, leaking roofs or earth floors increase condensation. Raise the motor off the floor and cover it with a breathable sheet.
  • Vibration-free location: a motor standing next to running machines can have its stationary bearings marked in their races by constant small vibrations. Turning the shaft a few revolutions now and then prevents this and stops the grease settling in one spot.
  • Protection: leave the anti-rust coating and key guard on the shaft end; keep the terminal box cover closed.
  • Humid store: on motors with an anti-condensation heater, the heater can be powered during storage.

Recording the date the motor entered the store and its nameplate data makes it easy to know how long it has waited before commissioning. For more, see the spare motor storage guide.