Variable Speed Drive

With the growing need for versatility in today’s manufacturing facilities, the variable-speed drive (VSD) has become important when a process no longer operates at one set speed for the entire shift. To begin working with a VSD, we need to check the load curve to determine its required speed range and stopping method. Applications such as fans and pumps require an energy-regulated operation, across partial load conditions. Conveyor and process lines require stable torque output at low speed.

In selecting the VSD rating, we need to consider the requirements for an overload, and the site's ambient temperature, in addition to the motor rated info provided on the nameplate.

We provide Schneider VSDs and also build VFD control panels that provide the drive with proper input protection, output filtering, and, where required, bypass switching. We verify the cable lengths between the motor and the drive, since long cable runs may require the installation of either an output reactor or a dv/dt filter.

We will set the parameters according to the application. Acceleration, deceleration, current limit, and braking mode will be verified with simulated loads.

Panel configuration is critical in keeping the ventilation path open as the way that heat is thrown off impacts drive life. The wiring of control terminals to PLC panel includes: remote start, speed reference and/or fault feedback. Communication can be provided via Modbus or Ethernet in cases where remote monitoring is required.

US plants can maintain smooth speed variation, controlled motor starting current and stable process flows with their variable frequency drives (U.S.) while experiencing fluctuations in power supply and frequent changes in loads.