VFD operation requirements
Most of the requirements for VFD operation, some I have run across as well include:
Most important factor for me (aside from technical compatibility) to select VFD is the support. It doesn't matter how good the variable frequency drive is if you don't have a near-by or local support group to assist whenever you have issues...
- Whether the VFD requires having regenerative capabilities or not
- Harmonics: What are the harmonic levels expected/needed?
- Incoming power: What do you have on site to work with to achieve the desired operability and harmonic levels?
- Number and type of units in the power network: To determine susceptibility of the VFD to the power grid "nuisances"
- control capabilities: In the end it comes to what device you are working on controller. For instance, in my area of expertise (oil & gas) it is not just a question of VFD features, but programming capabilities to adapt the VFD for my needs
- Communications / Integration capability: To what devices will the VFD connect to? Do you need master/slave comms capability?
- Speed range you expect to operate on
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Operation conditions (expected usual overloads or underloads? sudden over-torqueing conditions required inrush for a defined period of time? ambient operation conditions?)
Most important factor for me (aside from technical compatibility) to select VFD is the support. It doesn't matter how good the variable frequency drive is if you don't have a near-by or local support group to assist whenever you have issues...
