Category Archives: Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)

Variable-frequency drive for ventilators: a logical choice.

In ventilator applications, the airflow varies based on occupancy, climate, and/or production requirements. To make the airflow as efficient as possible, it is important to control the ventilators. Variable-frequency drives from Fluxcon offer effective flow control, increased comfort, and high-performance with high energy efficiency.

Constant flow and pressure provided by the frequency controller for ventilators

With a variable-frequency drive, you are able to adjust the fan speed to run faster or slower based on the desired flow or pressure. By incorporating a PID controller in the variable-frequency drive, a stable control behavior is achieved, resulting in a stable pressure and flow in the ventilation system.

Improved performance

By running at a lower speed, the fans also produce less noise, contributing to reduced noise levels. Furthermore, resonance issues can be prevented and addressed by setting “forbidden frequency ranges” in the system.

Energy savings through a variable-frequency drive for ventilators.

With a variable-frequency drive, you can deliver a more constant pressure and flow. As a result, the average pressure and flow are significantly reduced. Indeed, the maximum flow and pressure are only required in exceptional situations. Lowering the ventilator speed results in significant energy savings. Reducing the ventilator speed by 10% can result in energy savings of over 25%.

The IE3 directive

From January 1, 2015, the IE3 directive for the efficiency of electric motors has been in effect. All motors from 0.75 kW up to 7.5 kW must comply with the IE2 efficiency, and all motors above 7.5 kW must comply with the IE3 efficiency or with the IE2 efficiency combined with a variable-frequency drive.

Reduction of maintenance costs through the use of variable-frequency drive for ventilators.

Due to the lower pressure and flow, the ventilator doesn’t have to work as hard. This results in lower wear and, consequently, reduced maintenance costs and an extended lifespan.

Suitable variable-frequency drives for ventilators

The series of compact variable-frequency drive features a built-in PID control function. Based on an analog signal from the pressure sensor, the ventilator can automatically maintain the desired pressure and/or flow in a stable manner.

Frequency controller for winch applications

A characteristic of a winch is that there must always be good control over the load, even at low speeds. The most common applications for a winch include lifting, pulling, controlled unwinding, maintaining constant tension on the cable, and positioning the load.

Variable-frequency drive for winch applications

Each application has its own requirements for the drive system, including the variable-frequency drive. A characteristic of a winch is that there must always be good control over the load, even at low speeds. A variable-frequency drive with Vector Control regulation is indeed essential in this case.

Vector control without encoder feedback.

When performing relatively simple tasks such as lifting or pulling the load at multiple speeds, a Vector Control system is more than sufficient to achieve a well-functioning drive system that is also straightforward in its design.

Vector Control with encoder feedback.

For more advanced winch applications, it is necessary to provide the variable-frequency drive with precise information about the motor’s behavior. With this, advanced applications such as maintaining constant tension on the cable or 4-quadrant operation, including precise load control at 0Hz (standstill), can be achieved without any issues.

Fluxcon application knowledge

Fluxcon has extensive experience in the field of winches. Applications such as heave compensation, constant tensioning, or positioning of loads in settings like theaters are well-known applications for Fluxcon. Fluxcon also possesses knowledge about lift installations for people and/or goods.