Entries by Craig Chamberlin

ABB ACS150 Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): A Guide

/in , , , /by

Engineers working with motor control systems will find this guide essential. We dive deep into the ABB ACS150 drive, covering everything from initial ACS150 VFD setup to advanced troubleshooting of common ACS150 fault codes. This article provides practical, step-by-step instructions, and expert insights to help you optimize performance and minimize downtime. Whether you’re commissioning a new system or maintaining existing equipment, you’ll gain the confidence to handle these powerful ABB micro VFDs effectively. Learn the key technical specifications and parameter settings to unlock the full potential of your variable speed drives.

News :: Industrial | Economy Drives Markets to Seek Online Alternatives

/1 Comment/in /by

It has become common knowledge that the poor economy is causing businesses all over the United States to suffer.  As a result of the credit crunch, industrial manufacturing, automation, processing, and other related markets have been seeking alternatives, and found them online.  Historically, industrial markets have relied heavily on the local businesses they have been […]

FAQ :: VFDs | Are There Things to Consider When Operating 50 Hz Equipment at 60 Hz?

/in /by

Machinery imported into the United States is often rated at an operating frequency of 50 Hertz. Unless engineered for operation at 60 Hz., this can be problematic for electric motors. This is especially true when operating pump and fan loads. Too often the distributors and purchasers of this machinery assume that the Original Equipment Manufacturer has taken […]

FAQ :: VFDs | Should I Use An Inverted Rated Motor On VFD Applications?

/in /by

Many electricians apply Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) to AC Motors that are not inverter rated. Many are not even aware that inverter rated motors exist. Inverter rated motors are not required for inverter applications, however, when a VFD is applied to an inverter rated motor, the inverter rated motor has less chance of premature winding failure. Inverter rated motors have […]

VFDs Reduce Energy Costs Up To 60% Using an Industrial Drive

/in /by

A properly applied Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) will significantly reduce operating costs.  This is particularly true for variable torque loads such as: Fans Blowers Pumps Blowers, for example, are often used with dampers to control air flow.  These dampers may be operated either manually or automatically.  When dampers are closed, 50% motor current will drop to approximately […]

FAQ :: VFDs | How Do I Test The IGBT Power Section On My Drive?

/2 Comments/in /by

One of the more common problems seen in our Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) repair division is the failure of the IGBT (Insulated Gate Bi-polar Transistor) power section modules. If the Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) is blowing fuses, or the VFD simply is not turning on, the following test may aid you in finding the root of the problem. A digital voltmeter test can tell if a short […]

FAQ :: VFDs | How Can I Troubleshoot A Variable Frequency Drive On A Network?

/in /by

Engineering technicians have many nightmare stories when it comes to on-site troubleshooting.  In this instance, I was called to help troubleshoot a Closed Loop (Sensorless Vector) Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) on a production line that was so large, it seemed to go so far down the plant, it never ended. After overcoming the intimidation associated with the sheer size of the line, it became a question of focusing […]

FAQ :: VFDs | How Do I Derate Three Phase Inputs For Single Phase Applications?

/in /by

Often times those using a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) may find themselves needing to connect a higher horsepower VFD to a single phase input power source.  Since most higher horsepower VFDs only accept three phase input as a power source, they are left with little options or alternatives. Don’t fret, there is a solution. If you are using a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) rated for three phase […]

FAQ :: VFDs | How Does A Variable Frequency Drive Work?

/in /by

An AC Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) is commonly referred to as an “Inverter”. This is because of the way a VFD works.  The following details the inner workings of a VFD: Alternating Current (AC) power is applied to the input of the VFD and feeds a bridge rectifier. The rectifier converts the Alternating Current (AC) voltage into Direct Current (DC) voltage. The Direct […]

FAQ :: VFDs | How Do I Pick A Variable Frequency Drive for My Application?

/in /by

When applying a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) to a new or existing application there are many factors to consider prior to making a firm decision on what type of Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) should be used. If one already has an existing application where VFDs seem to consistently fail, they should look to using a different VFD type for potential success. For a new VFD application one […]