A variable-frequency drive (VFD) (also termed adjustable-frequency drive, variable-speed drive, AC drive, micro drive or inverter drive) is a type of adjustable-speed drive used in electro-mechanical drive systems to control AC motor speed and torque by varying motor input frequency and voltage.
While VFDs are used in applications ranging from small appliances to the largest of mine mill drives and compressors, about a third of the world’s electrical energy is supplied by electric motors in fixed-speed centrifugal pump, fan and compressor applications and VFDs’ global market penetration for all applications is still relatively small. This highlights especially significant energy efficiency improvement opportunities for retrofitted and new VFD installations.
Over the last four decades, power electronics technology has reduced VFD cost and size and improved performance through advances in semiconductor switching devices, drive topologies, simulation and control techniques, and control hardware and software.
VFDs are available in a number of different low and medium voltage AC-AC and DC-AC topologies.
System Description and Operation of Variable Frequency Drives
A variable frequency drive is a device used in a drive system consisting of the following three main sub-systems: AC motor, main drive controller assembly, and drive operator interface.
AC Motor
The AC electric motor used in a VFD system is usually a three-phase induction motor. Some types of single-phase motors can be used, but three-phase motors are usually preferred. Various types of synchronous motors offer advantages in some situations, but three phase induction motors are suitable for most purposes and are generally the most economical choice. Motors that are designed for fixed-speed operation are often used. Elevated voltage stresses imposed on induction motors that are supplied by VFDs require that such motors be designed for definite-purpose inverter-fed duty in accordance to such requirements as Part 31 of NEMA Standard MG-1.
Purchase your AC Drives and VFD’s from AutomatedPT today!
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable-frequency_drive