Thank you all for stopping by. Today we are going to show you how to access the terminal strip on your AC Tech SMVector Series Variable Frequency Drive (VFD). This is a basic introduction to the drive itself and for those of you who have not worked with this product before. You will find doing […]
For those of you who are familiar or unfamiliar with Lenze / AC Techs SMVector series drive they have come a long way since their conception. All AC Tech products are manufactured in Uxbridge Massachusettes. Today we discuss how to read the nameplate data off of the drive. It is not as complicated as most […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
