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Variable
Frequency Drives
A variable frequency drive is an
electronic component that adjusts the speed of an AC motor by
regulating the power being delivered. A variable frequency drive
matches motor speed to the demands of the work being performed. This
allows a manufacturer or operators of motors and equipment to
fine-tune their adjustable-speed drives.
There are two main reasons why industries
use variable frequency drives. One, they can save significantly in
the energy department. Two, they can lessen mechanical and
electrical stress on motors, which can reduce maintenance and repair
costs and extend the life of your equipment.
How Variable Frequency Drives Work
Equipment with a single-speed drive will start motors abruptly
subjecting them to high torque and current surges up to ten times
the full-load current. The variable frequency drive soft
starts the motor by gradually increasing to the operating speed.
They are used in a variety of applications for various reasons. The
most common usage is in pump and fan applications because they
provide the most savings in energy. In most cases, centrifugal pumps
and fans run at one speed. An automatic valve or a kind of
mechanical means varies fluid flow rates. With a variable
frequency drive, you can change motor speed, and by being able to
adjust a pump or fan speed to get the desired rate, you can
significantly reduce energy costs. Some of the most common
applications are wastewater treatment facilities, power plants, and
hot water circulation in commercial buildings just to name a few.
 Variable frequency drives are easy and reliable, but they can
produce harmonic distortion, which adversely affects power quality
and other electrical machinery. Installing an isolation transformer
can eliminate this problem.
When using a variable frequency drive, you need a clear
understanding of how they work.
The Variable Frequency Drive
Website
will help you gain the knowledge you need. In our research, The
Three Phase Electricity Specialist found that Baldor and WEG manufactures the best quality
variable frequency drives. We also
found that
TEMCo Tower Electric Motor Company, a distributor of Baldor and
WEG, is an excellent company to use when purchasing your soft start
and variable frequency drive equipment. With their excellent trained staff,
you will be assured you are getting the right manufacturer for your
AC motor needs. For all your variable frequency drives and soft
start drives, call TEMCo at 512-490-2187 or toll free at
1-800-613-2290.
The Three Phase Electricity Specialist strongly recommends using
reputable manufacturers when purchasing soft start drives and other
electrical products. Please read all our educational articles
provided in our Soft Start Drive Website.
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Soft Start Drives start motors at lower
voltages, slowly ramping up to operation voltage, which reduces wear
on mechanical gears, chains, sprockets, belts and gearboxes.
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Soft Start Drives eliminate motor over-fluxing and allow under-loaded or
oversized motors to operate more efficiently.
Baldor Electric Company
Baldor is a U.S. based company and is a
leading manufacturer of industrial electric motors, drives, power
transmission products and generators.
Weg Electric Motor Company
Weg has been in business since
1961 and is a reputable manufacturer of soft start drives and
electric motors. They distribute high quality products
worldwide.
The leading manufacturers will offer quick nationwide and
international shipping from regional
warehouses.
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