ABB strikes transverse flux motor deal
22nd October 2026
USA: ABB has extended its relationship with Electric Torque Machines (ETM), which began in 2025, to develop and commercialise motors based on ETM’s patented transverse flux motor technology.
Transverse flux motors can generate high torque at low speeds, making them ideal for large cooling fans, pumps and heat rejection towers used in today’s high-density data centres.
The TFM motor will be commercialised under the ABB brand.
ABB says the ETM partnership complements its established portfolio of high-efficiency motors, ultra-low harmonic variable speed drives and liquid cooling expertise. As data center heat loads intensify, ABB is scaling cooling solutions.
“As AI reshapes data centre design, operators are looking for cooling solutions that deliver more with less – less energy, less complexity and less downtime,” said Justin McMahon, EVP of ABB’s global business line, NEMA Motors Division. “Our expanded partnership with ETM brings a differentiated motor technology that addresses exactly these needs.”
The direct-drive architecture of transverse flux motors is said to offer a compelling option for large-scale cooling applications, reducing mechanical complexity and conversion losses, minimising sound generated, lowering maintenance requirements and lifetime cost of ownership.
