What are The Uses and Benefits of Variable Frequency Drive?

Tech Innovation

Sep 18, 2019

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Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) is a power conversion device that converts a fixed voltage, fixed frequency, sine-wave power into a variable output, a variable frequency used to control the speed of induction motors. A new trend has come to adjust the speed of a 3 phase induction motor by using variable frequency drives. This is one of the most efficient methods of controlling motors that are designed to operate at single speed.

Single and 3 phase variable frequency drive manufacturers are constantly working to improve the overall efficiency, performance and quality of drives that helps to enhance the overall functionality and applications of industrial processes.

Why Use a VFD?

The primary function of a VFD is to provide energy savings and by controlling the speed of a pump rather than controlling flow through the use of throttling valves, energy savings can be substantial. There are some reasons to use a VFD that are:

Greater Speed Adjustment: VFD controls multiple speeds, allowing you to customize the hoists control of your application.

Efficiency: A variable frequency drive only consumes the powers that are needed and save energy compared to contactors and soft-starters.

Increase Hoist Life: Some VFDs provide thermal overload and overcurrent protection for the hoist motor that helps to increase the hoist life. It also uses a ramp-down-to-stop method of braking. And this brake is only used for parking and emergency situation that prolongs brake energy.

Benefits of Variable Frequency Drive

Variable frequency drives save energy and provide better process control and in addition to these benefits VFDs can also provide many other benefits that are:

A variable frequency drive may be used for controlling of process temperature, flow, and pressure without using a separate controller. Suitable sensors and electronics are used to interface-driven equipment with VFD.
The maintenance cost of a variable frequency drive can be lowered, since lowering operating speeds result in longer life for bearing and motors.
It eliminates throttling valves and dampers and also do away with maintaining the devices and all associated controls.
It controls ramp-speed in a liquid system for eliminating the water hammer problems.
VFD has an ability to limit torque to a user-selected level to protect driven equipment that can’t tolerate excessive torque.

They allow easy manual adjustment of motor speed to match changing load requirements and take the place of a magnetic starter, while at the same time they offer superior motor protection and precise control.

Variable frequency drive can soft start a high inertia load to limit or completely eliminate the large inrush current normally associated with motor starting.

Conclusion:

VFD is a type of motor drive which can be used to reduce mechanical stress on machines to extend their lifespan. The most common uses of VFD are for control of fans, compressors, and pumps. Consider approaching single and 3 phase variable frequency drive manufacturer for high performance and finest ranges of variable speed drive, soft starter and more.

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