Variable Frequency Drives and Inverters

Variable Frequency Drivers

GIE supplies high-performance variable frequency drives for numerous industries and their respective applications. These are designed and developed by leading manufacturers, resulting in consistent quality outputs that guarantee optimal performance in your systems. With a variable frequency drive, the optimized energy consumption it offers can lead to better operations.

What is a Variable Frequency Drive?

A variable frequency drive or VFD is a motor controller used to drive an electric motor by changing or varying the frequency and voltage of its power supply. If an application doesn't need the electric motor to run at full speed, the variable-frequency drive can quickly ramp down the frequency and voltage to meet the electric motor's load requirements.

If the electric motor's speed requirement changes, the VFD can subsequently ramp up or down to match the motor's speed requirement. It's also referred to as a speed controller because changing the frequency and voltage of the power supply to the motor results in an adjustment of motor speed.

Common Applications of Variable Frequency Drives

Apart from speed controllers, VFD is known by many names, such as inverter, AC drive, adjustable frequency drive, and variable speed drive. Its uses are fundamental to ensure that the electric motor operates effectively and efficiently, providing the required output. Therefore, maintaining it is essential to guarantee the smooth functioning of your system.

Some of its typical applications include:

Irrigation pumping: A variable frequency drive is employed in pump systems for irrigation, allowing them to adjust their flow rate based on the power consumed by the pump at various points.

Air-conditioning systems: VFD is commonly used in air-conditioning in terms of controlling temperature. This device can save energy by reducing the speed of a fan motor when cooling demands are not high.

Crane and hoist applications: The precision delivered by a variable-frequency drive offers high efficiency in crane and hoist applications, making it easier to adjust the speed of lifting or lowering heavy loads, leading to longer equipment life due to reduced mechanical stress.

Three Main Types of Variable Frequency Drives

The versatility of VFDs requires different configurations to ensure the system performs as intended and is compatible with the motor and application. The three main types include:

Voltage-Source Inverter (VSI): VSI converts DC voltage to AC voltage. These inverters utilize a simple diode circuit to get the DC signal from the AC signal and store it in the capacitor. Afterward, an inverter circuit delivers the stored energy to the output.

Current-Source Inverter (CSI): CSIs can efficiently convert a DC input current into an AC at a given frequency. The frequency depends on the variable voltage range.

Pulse Width Modulation Inverter (PWM): PWMs rapidly switch the DC voltage on and off using transistors to produce the AC output voltage and frequency.

Premium Variable-Frequency Drive Products for Superior Performance

Industrial VFDs are reliable solutions in numerous industries, ensuring a system's energy usage in industrial settings is managed effectively. Fortunately, GIE provides a wide range of VFD products that can handle low to high voltage and power for countless applications.

Jumpstart your projects with the correct variable frequency drives from pioneer manufacturers! Contact us today to learn more about our product selection or request a quote for a cost-effective solution.

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Mitsubishi Inverters
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The Mitsubishi FREQROL Series general-purpose inverters allow changes to be made to the speed of three-phase induction motors, freely and easily. An extensive lineup provides optimum control and energy conservation in a wide range of machines.
TECO Westinghouse Low Voltage AC Drives
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1/4HP - 1000HP Low Voltage Drives
TECO Westinghouse Medium Voltage AC Drives

With over 100 years of experience in motor design and application, TECO-Westinghouse Motor Company is a premier supplier of AC and DC motors and generators. Ranging from fractional HP ratings to 100,000 HP, these high quality machines are used in a variety of rugged applications across several industries throughout the world.

TECO-Westinghouse comprises the experience of Westinghouse, a leader in the motor industry since 1888, and TECO Electric & Machinery Co, Ltd., a multinational conglomerate with over 50 years of manufacturing experience. Together, TECO-Westinghouse embodies the capabilities and proud traditions of excellence from both companies and carries them forward.

In keeping with this idea, TECO-Westinghouse is pleased to now offer a complete package of Variable Speed Drive (VSD) systems that includes an Input/ Output Switchgear, Medium Voltage Drive (MVD), and motors. VersaBridge® MVDs provide reliable motor control for a variety of industry specific and general purpose applications including Oil & Gas, Utility/ Power Generation, Metals and Mines. These patented MVDs are designed utilizing a multilevel H-Bridge topology that reduces the harmonic levels to extremely low levels. The modular design facilitates ease of installation, commissioning and maintenance. The VersaBridge® is an innovative product that combines reliable, simple, and compact solutions with the latest power electronics and cooling technologies.

Mitsubishi Inverters

TECO Westinghouse Low Voltage AC Drives

TECO Westinghouse Medium Voltage AC Drives