Choosing an industrial motor means matching the machine to the workload and the environment. Should you pick a compact general-purpose motor built for dusty and slightly damp areas, or a severe-duty unit designed for demanding conditions? Here are two very different 3-phase motors that illustrate this fork in the road: the Baldor-Reliance CNM3457, a totally enclosed non-ventilated motor, and a TEFC severe-duty motor. Both run on three-phase power, but they're engineered for different demands and budgets. In the sections below, we'll break down the specs and real-world suitability of each so you can make an informed choice.
Quick Verdict
If your application is light and single-speed, the Baldor-Reliance CNM3457 is the less expensive option. If you need continuous power for demanding equipment, the 1800 RPM TEFC motor offers higher horsepower and overload tolerance. The right pick comes down to the load you'll be moving and the environment it operates in.
At a Glance
Here's how the two compare on key specs:
| Feature | Baldor-Reliance CNM3457 | 1800 RPM 5 HP TEFC Severe Duty Motor |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $275.00 | $330.95 |
| Horsepower | 0.33 HP | 5 HP |
| Base RPM | 3450 | 1800 |
| Enclosure | TENV | TEFC/IP55 |
| Voltage | 208-230/460V | 230/460V |
| Frequency | 60 Hz | 50/60 Hz |
| Condition | New - Open box | New |
Where Each Product Wins
- Baldor-Reliance CNM3457: This motor wins for high-speed operations. Its 3450 RPM base speed suits equipment that needs to spin quickly without heavy torque.
- 1800 RPM TEFC Motor: This motor wins for heavy-duty, continuous use. Its 1.15 service factor permits a 25% overload, giving it headroom for demanding loads.
Product Notes
Baldor-Reliance CNM3457
The Baldor-Reliance CNM3457 is a totally enclosed non-ventilated (TENV) motor with a 0.33 HP output and a 3450 RPM base speed. Its TENV design is suited to environments with heavy dust, dirt, and light moisture, and because there are no external cooling vents, it's less likely to clog in gritty conditions. The motor runs on 60 Hz and accepts 208-230/460V, and its full-load amps range from 1.6-1.4/0.7, depending on the wiring. Available in new open-box condition for $275, it offers a low entry price for light single-speed machinery. The main limitation is the 0.33 HP power output: it won't handle heavy loads like pumps or compressors, but it's adequate for small fans, blowers, and similar equipment.
1800 RPM 5 HP TEFC Severe Duty Motor
The 1800 RPM 5 HP motor comes in a 184T frame (NEMA Design B) with a TEFC/IP55 enclosure that resists dust and water. It has a 1.15 service factor, allowing a 25% overload, and Class F insulation for high-heat environments. The motor is bi-directional and has a keyed 1-1/8" shaft that fits standard pulleys and couplings. At $330.95, it costs more than the Baldor-Reliance, but the price includes a 104 lb heavy-duty construction, 230/460V dual-voltage wiring, and 50/60 Hz compatibility. The trade-off is the larger physical size and weight, which require a solid foundation and enough space for installation.
Final Choice by Use Case
Go with the Baldor-Reliance CNM3457 if you need a high-speed motor for light single-speed applications in dusty areas and can accept a new open-box unit. Go with the 1800 RPM TEFC motor if you're powering pumps, compressors, or conveyors that demand continuous power and overload tolerance, and you have the budget for a larger, heavier machine. If your application sits between these extremes, consider the Baldor-Reliance for lighter loads and the TEFC motor when continuous operation and overload capacity are non-negotiable.
