Is EMI ever an issue with motors and drives?

[drodriquez]

Guys,
Is EMI ever an issue with motors and drives? I have not seen any evidence but have heard others talking about filtering it with external components.

[actionjack]

EMI is defined as Electromagnetic Interference

In motor/drive systems, the switching of high currents and voltages creates the possibility of generating some radiated electrical noise that can interfere with the operation of nearby sensitive electrical instruments or devices. Certain aspects of an installation, such as the long motor lead wire lengths, tend to increase the chance of experiencing EMI.

Most drive manufacturers produce accessories and filter components that you can install to decrease the level of EMI in your drive system.