Derate Three Phase VFD for Single Phase Power

There are many customers who want to derate their three phase Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) for single phase power. Some manufacturers offer products that are designed for single phase input, three phase output. The products that are available…

Inverter Duty Motors VS General Purpose Motors

General purpose AC motors have been around for many years. An inverter-duty motor is a much newer concept that became necessary as motors began to be driven by variable frequency drives. An inverter-duty motor can withstand the higher voltage…

SMV Parameter Setup & High Frequency Output

Setting up SMV Drive Parameters 1. Enter the “edit parameter mode” by: a. With the drive powered up the display should read “Stop”. b.  Press the M key once.  The drive will flash “PASS” then display “0000” c. …

Dynamic Brake Selection for Sub-Micro & SMV Series Drives

  Dynamic braking is used when an overhauling load causes regeneration from the motor to occur, especially in situations where the required deceleration time to stop the motor cannot be achieved due to High Voltage nuisance tripping.…

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

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…

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

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…

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

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…

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

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…

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

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…

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

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…

FAQ :: VFDs | What Is A Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)?

Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) are electronic devices used to control the speed of an Alternating Current Motor (AC Motor).  Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) are also commonly known as adjustable frequency drives, adjustable speed drives,…