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.
