Below
we show some measurements of the current energy consumption I did
after attaching a new low friction belt recently provided for a Life
Fitness T9i treadmill at the gym.
For this test, I measured the current "before"
and "after" by using an RMS (AC) amperometer on the
treadmill. The results below are what I got at 7km/h steady (normal
pace).
For
greater clarity, the terms "unloaded" and "loaded"
below simply mean if there was someone or not on the treadmill when
the measurement was taken.
Finally,
for true engineers out there, the user's weight is 91kgs (200 lbs)
and the treadmills are all European, spec. 220V AC 50Hz.
Before
replacing the belt and deck:
1.3
amps unloaded at normal pace
2.7
amps loaded at normal pace
The
original belt and deck were in good condition and well lubricated,
the belt did not really require replacement but we wanted to do a
test.
After
mounting new (and lubricated) belt and deck:
1.3amps
unloaded at normal pace
2.1amps
loaded at a normal pace
Conclusion
The
base current measured here in the "first" state was quite
favorable (low) and would not justify itself replacing belt and deck.
This
reflects the high standard in which we keep the gym equipment
entrusted to our assistance. By comparison, in my experience, I
measured the current absorption up to 6A or 8A loaded in structures
where there was little or no maintenance of treadmills. In these
situations, a low-friction belt and a preventive maintenance routine
could reduce energy consumption by 75%, a reduction that will allow
considerable bill savings on the exercise cost of the treadmill.
I
can conclude that, in any case, using a new low friction treadmill
belt, even if the original belt is still in good condition, provides
a significant and measurable reduction in current absorption. Even
under these rather favorable conditions, I was able to measure - 0.6A
(-23%) current after the new deck and belt had been mounted.
The
obvious saving in management costs, in my opinion, easily justifies
the replacement of the belt. Not only does it reduce electricity
consumption but it will also have a long-term positive effect on
avoiding the replacement of expensive components such as the board
and (on domestic models) the engine; the lower power consumption
means that these elements will work better and for a long time to
maintain high performance while remaining with a suitable load for
their design parameters (so without stresses that would lead to
premature failure!).
Buy
low friction treadmill tapes, lubricants and boards in our online
store:
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