How Vfd Controlled Motor Helps to Save Energy and Improve Automation

If you’re looking for a way to improve your automation while also saving energy, look no further than VFD controlled motors. In this blog post, we’ll explore what VFDs are and how they can save you money and time in the long run. Keep reading to learn more!

What is a VFD?

A variable frequency drive (VFD) is an electronic device that controls the speed of an electric motor by varying the frequency of the power supply. Variable Speed Drive are used in a wide variety of applications, from mining and steelmaking to food processing and wastewater treatment.

How Do VFDs Save Energy?

VFDs save energy by reducing the amount of electricity needed to power an electric motor. For example, let’s say you have a conveyor belt that needs to be moved at a constant speed. If you were to use a traditional motor, it would need to run at full power even when the conveyor belt is not moving at full speed. 

However, if you were to use a VFD, you could reduce the amount of power needed to run the motor because the VFD would only supply as much power as is needed to maintain the desired speed. This reduced power consumption leads to lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint.

VFDs also improve automation by allowing for more precise control over speed and torque. This allows for smoother starts and stops, which reduces stress on the motor and extends its lifespan. In addition, precision control can lead to increased productivity because processes can be completed faster and with fewer errors.

Applications where VFDs offer energy savings: 

1) Centrifugal Pumps: 

VFDs can help save energy in centrifugal pumps by reducing pump speed below what is possible using multi-speed motors or belts and pulleys. For example, a pump rated for 1500 rpm can be operated at 750 rpm using a VFD without any loss in pump performance. 

This reduced speed will lead to energy savings of up to 50%. In some cases, it might be necessary to upgrade to a larger size impeller for satisfactory operation at lower speeds but this will still result in overall energy savings due to lower friction losses. 

2) Conveyors: 

Similar to pumps, conveyors also consume lesser energy when operated at lower speeds using a VFD. For example, a typical belt conveyor moves 2100 lb/hr of material when operated at 100 ft/min but only 500 lb/hr when operated at 50 ft/min – a 75% reduction in rate. 

While higher belt tension might be required for satisfactory operation at reduced speeds, this will be more than offset by the reduction in friction losses leading to overall energy savings. 

3) Air compressors: 

Air compressors are another application where reduced speed operation using a VFD can lead to significant energy savings. A typical rotary screw air compressor produces 0.75 m3/min (264 cfm) of free air delivery (FAD) when operated at 100% duty cycle but only consumes 4 kW.

Conclusion: 

VFD controlled motors offer a number of benefits that make them an attractive option for those looking to improve their automation while also saving energy. If you’re interested in exploring this option for your business, contact us today! We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have.