Facts about AC Drive

There was a time in manufacturing history of air conditioners when speed control from a singular motor was achieved through a series of large pulleys that would power the large flat belts. The various sizes and combinations of these sized pulleys and belts together decided the speeds. Being extremely inefficient and hazardous as the pulleys were open faced and exposed. Eventually smaller belt and pulley systems were invented and electric motors became compact and although the efficiency was still lagging behind. The problem was effectively solved with the invention of modern AC drives. These drives operate on the principle of controlling the frequency of the AC, which is sent to the motor. The adjustments on frequency also affect the voltage, while the amount of power delivered to the moving motor remains constant.

There are many ways of referring to AC drives in the industry. They may be called Inverters, Variable Speed Drives (VSD), Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) or Frequency Converters, as their primary function is to control the AC induction motor. A distinctive feature of AC drives is that by controlling the frequency delivered to the motor, they can monitor any adverse or overload conditions experienced by the unit due to things like equipment failure, electrical flouting and the like. In view of this fact, plenty of manufacturers these days are setting the AC drives to cease operation at any minor infraction that may cause harm to the motor. This saves manufacturers huge amounts in motor replacements. Some leading manufacturers even have intelligent drives that have programmable automation or motion controllers within the product to eliminate communication delays, improve performance, efficiency in motion application, save panel space by removing the need for external controls.

The chief reason for the demand of such drives is the energy consumption factor. It is estimated that such drives end up saving up to 20% more energy if installed and operated in an efficient way. These AC drives also play a key role to reduce carbon emissions into the environment, taking into consideration that the motors consume almost two thirds of electrical energy. Since energy efficiency, money saving and environmental conservation are three important aspects in buying electronic products, the significance of AC drives can be realized.

The need for buying a product with a high quality AC drive is very high nowadays, when the value of money is so high, thanks to the extreme inflation. In fact, a majority of smart buyers in the market ask for details and specifications of the product. Some of the frequently asked questions include inquiries about the AC drive and in turn the energy star ratings, efficiency of cooling, tonnage and size, product reputation, installation charges, product life cycle, etc.