What is a variable frequency drive
A variable frequency drive is a device that is used to control the power consumption of the motors. If we use VFD then we can decrease the amount of energy that the motor used for its operation. A variable frequency drive can vary the speed and torque of a motor and it is done by controlling the frequency of the power to the motor. If we need to get variable output from a motor then we can use VFD rather than any other mechanical device. Basically VFD is a motor drive that is used to control the speed, torque, direction, and the horsepower of a motor. There are many speed drives in the market that can be used to control the motor, but none of them have all the features of the VFD. So by using VFD we can control the voltage and frequency which is supplied to the motor. A VFD is also called as variable speed drives, or adjustable speed drives, etc. It is also called inverters because the variable frequency drives are capable to vary the frequency of the output voltage and current. Due to all these features VFDs are widely used in HVAC systems.
Why do we need to use VFD and what is the purpose of VFD
- The energy consumed by the motor can be decreased so energy saving can be done
- We could achieve the required power factor
- It can give protection against high inrush currents
- It can increase or decrease the processing speed so better process control
- Power supply problems will be limited
- The efficiency of the motor can be improved and it also decreases the stress of the motor
- It would only use the energy that is required
- By using VFD soft start can be achieved
How to install a VFD
The variable-frequency drive must be installed properly otherwise the drive could malfunction. So the installation of the VFD must be done by an experienced person. Certain precautions must be taken while installing a VFD they are the vibration level of the place must not be high where the VFD is installed and the temperature should be very low. The drive would heat up during the operation so it must be installed in a non-flammable place. It must be installed in a place where it won’t be bothered by moisture and sunlight. If the drive is installed vertically then it would be helpful to dissipate heat. If more than one VFD is installed then a cooling fan can be used. The VFD mounting must be done with the help of nuts and screws so we can ensure proper installation. The drive must be isolated from dust, water, and oil.
How to do the VFD commissioning
While commissioning the VFD make sure the starter panel installation is complete and make sure that there is no damage in the starter panel. If any component is damaged then it must be repaired. Check the details of the insulation resistance values of the incoming and outgoing power wiring. Make sure that all the BMS wiring is finished. We must also check the cable dressing inside the starter panel. Make sure all the control wiring is done properly. Make sure the ratings of MCB, MCCB, and fuses are correct. All the wiring termination must be checked. We must check all the earthing connections and supporting insulators. The phase sequence and incoming voltage must be checked. The operations of the selector switch and pushbuttons must be checked. Check the speed limit and direction of rotation of the motor.
Before switching the incomer on we must check the incoming voltage and phase sequence. Control supply must be checked and also check the bypass starter operation with the motor disconnected. The operation of VFD must be checked after disconnecting the motor.
How to select VFD
In order to select a VFD to control the motor, we must first know about the motor and the system. The motor details can be known by checking the motor nameplate and then we could know certain details about motor such as the horsepower, voltage, RPM, etc. We must also gather some details about the system such as the load type, like if it has a constant torque or variable torque. The range of speed and control method. So by gathering all these details we can easily select a VFD. The load horsepower must be known so that .we can select VFD which is compatible with it. By using VFD we could vary the speed so the operation is done at different speeds and it can cause mechanical resonance in the driven equipment. Sometimes VFD can generate harmonic currents and this could baldly affect the electrical distribution system and equipment operation. So we can use a filtering device to solve this problem.
We should compare the full load amps (FLA) of the motor to the VFD that we have chosen for the installation. We must select the VFD according to the voltage of the motor ad this is really a difficult task to achieve. We must also consider the load while selecting a VFD the load could be of variable torque or constant torque. By using VFD we can vary the motor speed so while doing this the motor must not run less than 20 percent of its allowed maximum speed.
What are the major components of VFD
Mostly the VFD contains three sections the input section, rectifier section, and the inverter section. The electric power from the source is drawn by the input section. The power is converted from AC to DC by the rectifier section and the inverter section converts the DC power to AC.
How to troubleshoot a VFD
If the operation of VFD goes wrong, then we must check the basics such as the connections, temperature, controller, etc. Mostly when an error happens the proper way to troubleshoot is by the visual inspection. If there is dirt or corrosion in the drive it must be removed first. After that, the wiring connection must be checked. Make sure all the connections are proper and check the incoming supply. All of the troubleshooting processes must be done by a qualified person. At last, the drive output voltage and current should be checked.
How does a variable frequency drive work
Usually, a motor draws more current than its rated current when it is connected to a supply. The motor rotates in a synchronous speed, so VFD is used to change this speed and it is done by changing the frequency of the applied voltage to the motor. So when a VFD is connected to the supply of the motor it will start the motor with low frequency and gradually it will increase the frequency. A VFD can convert the electrical power to a required form for controlling speed, torque, and direction of rotation of AC motor. The rectifier section of the VFD would convert the AC power to DC power. This rectified DC power is then transferred to the intermediate circuit which consists of inductors and capacitors. After that, it is transferred to the inverter section which will convert the DC power to AC power of variable frequency and voltage. This is done with the help of a pulse width modulated signal. The required output is produced by the help of semiconductor switches and the most commonly used semiconductor switch in VFD is IGBT.
What are the applications of VFD
- It is used in marine, for power generation and dynamic positioning
- It is used in industries like paper mills, steel mills, and cement plants
- Used in the oil and gas industry to control the pumps, compressors, turbines…
- Used in HVAC systems
- It can be used for all variable torque applications
- Metallurgy – dusting fans, furnace fans…
- It is also used in power generation sections like condensate pumps, forced draft fans…
What are the advantages of VFD
- If VFD is used in a system then it would reduce the maintenance of the system thereby improves the efficiency
- It can decrease the heat, wear and stress on motors and other components
- The system will perform better
- Energy saving
- For a complex process, it can run special operating patterns
- The smooth operation can be achieved
- Harmonic current is less
- With the help of PLC, its control logic can be changed easily
What are the disadvantages of VFD
- Reflected wave voltages
- In order to limit the noise cable runs, must be short
- Noise is produced because of the PWM and it can also affect the other circuit
- Drive over current and circuit malfunction could happen because of the noise
