A variable-frequency drive (VFD) (also termed adjustable-frequency drive, variable speed drive, AC drive, micro drive or inverter drive) is a type of adjustable-speed drive used in electro-mechanical drive systems to control AC motor speed and torque by varying motor input frequency and voltage.
VFDs are used in applications ranging from small appliances to the largest of mine mill drives and compressors. However, around 25% of the world’s electrical energy is consumed by electric motors in industrial applications, which are especially conducive for energy savings using VFDs in centrifugal load service.
Different types of VFD
Based on how VFD converts AC power to DC power and make the rectification there are other types of VFDs are available in the market.
The main three types of VFD are VSI, CSI, and PWM.
How to select VFD for my Application?
To choose the best possible VFDs for a particular application, a great comprehension of the load is required. Various kinds of engines produce various sorts of torque. In certain applications steady torque is fundamental while in different applications the torque should be controlled. Additionally the load over the engine is deciding component of the engine particular, for the most part the Power rating.
To choose the suitable VFD for the best possible application we have to assess or think about the accompanying things.
- Horsepower of the motor
- The cost
- The operating environment of the VFD and motors
- Single phase or three phase
- Single VFD with single motor or single VFD with multiple motors
- Additional control features requirements
Advantages of VFD
There are bunches of reasons why VFD is a famous decision to the purchaser where different controllers are promptly accessible. The most significant purpose behind the prominence of VFD is the low vitality utilization abilities and starting arrangement cost. VFD offer high effectiveness as far as vitality utilization other than any controller gadgets in a similar section. Because of this, if there should be an occurrence of huge production lines and plants where bigger pull engines are required, VFD offers low force utilization hence bringing down the vitality charge sum and gives cost-sparing chances.
