Improvements to CM‐ET Lodestar Classic Electric Chain Motor

Columbus McKinnon Corporation (CMCO), a designer, manufacturer and marketer of material handling products, systems and services, has made significant improvements to its legendary CM‐ET Lodestar Classic electric chain motor. The CM‐ET Lodestar Classic now features an Ingress Protection (IP) rating of IP66 and is easier to service and maintain in the field.

An IP66 rating indicates that the CM‐ET Lodestar Classic offers protection from dust and high‐pressure water—making this unit ideal for use in outdoor environments. To achieve this rating, CMCO made a variety of innovative design improvements, including:

• High‐performance composite cord grips that prevent water from entering the motor body at the pendant and power cords’ point of entry.
• Continuous gaskets that create a waterproof seal between the gearbox assembly and the back frame and motor covers.
• O‐rings on the lift wheel bearing that prevent water from entering the motor body through the lift wheel opening.

In addition to weatherproofing, CMCO has made improvements to the drive shaft to prevent grease migration. It has also improved the serviceability of the motor by simplifying the wiring schemes, adding hardwired jumpers on the contactor and utilizing hex‐style screws throughout the motor. Additionally, the CM‐ET Lodestar Classic now comes equipped with a standard external chain guide to help extend chain life.

CM‐ET Lodestar Classic electric chain motor