ID Fan Motor Installation
Tanga Cement PLC needed a complete ID Fan drive system installed. Our team delivered the full scope — from heavy equipment handling to high voltage cabling and final commissioning checks. Here is a summary of what we accomplished.
Project Overview
The project centred on installing a 1000 kW ID Fan Motor alongside a 1250 kVA Oil-Cooled Transformer and a 1386 kVA Variable Speed Drive (VSD). These three items work together as a complete drive system. As a result, the ID Fan now runs with precise speed control, improving both energy efficiency and process stability in the cement plant.
Mechanical Handling and Positioning
First, our team loaded, transported, and carefully positioned all three major equipment items at site. Because of their size and weight, we planned each lift in detail before work began. Consequently, the team placed every unit safely and accurately without affecting ongoing plant operations.
High Voltage and Low Voltage Power Cabling
Next, we laid and terminated 11 kV High Tension (HT) cable from the main switchgear to the transformer’s high voltage side. After that, we installed Low Voltage (LV) cables from the transformer’s LV side to the VSD input. We then ran further LV cables from the VSD output directly to the motor terminals. This completed the full power circuit for the drive system.
Earthing and Bonding
We also installed a full earthing system across all equipment. This bonding and grounding work protects both personnel and sensitive equipment like the VSD. Furthermore, it meets the strict electrical safety standards required on industrial plant sites.
Control and Auxiliary Cabling
In addition, we laid and terminated control cables for the Emergency Stop (E-Stop) circuits and the Motor PTC thermistor protection. The PTC protection monitors motor temperature and prevents damage from overheating. We also installed auxiliary cables for the motor cooling fans and the motor heater circuits, so the motor performs reliably in all conditions.
Testing and Verification
Before energisation, we tested insulation resistance (IR) on all HT, LV, and control circuits. These tests confirmed that cable insulation was sound and free from faults. Finally, we carried out a full inspection to check all terminations, verify correct cable phasing, and confirm every connection was secure and ready for commissioning.
Conclusion
This project shows our team’s ability to handle complex electrical and mechanical installations from start to finish. We managed everything from heavy lift logistics to high voltage terminations and system testing. We are proud of the work delivered at Tanga Cement PLC and look forward to supporting similar projects in the future.

