Frequently Asked Questions
Most frequent asked questions
Are there variable speed drives for single-phase motors?
Most Manufacturers design variable speed drives to control three-phase motors only. However, there are 240Vac single-phase input inverter for use with 240Vac 3-phase motor.
Unlike 3 phases asynchronous motors with 3 balanced windings, a single phase motor is composed of 2 windings. The first is the main winding which is used to generate torque and the second one is the starting winding which is used to start motor. The wire section of these two windings is not same due to fact that winding does not see same value of current and not during same time. So this load on drive output is not balanced and will also unbalance current which can have an impact on the drive’s IGBT.
What is the difference between 4p3d and 4p4d for MCCB's?
4p3d is a 4 pole MCCB and has protection on all 3 of the phases but neutral is NOT protected. 4p4d is a 4 pole MCCB which has protection on all 3 of the phases including neutral
What is the maximum motor distance allowed between motor and variable speed drive?
The maximum motor cable length is 50m (164ft). This length can be increased with the use of a motor choke
Do i need reactive power compensation for variable speed drive?
No. Capacitor banks are basically designed to correct the cos phi (Displacement Power Factor). DPF for VSD’s is close to unity, thus VFD’s are participating to correct the overall DPF of the installation.
Can i run the motor at speed higher than 50Hz using a variable frequency drive?
Yes but you need to check the motor datasheets to ensure you dont exceed maximum frequency.
Running a 50hz motor above rated frequency will push it to “field-weakening” status, which means the load capability (torque) you get from the motor drops.
Eddy current and hysteresis losses increase since it is proportional to the frequency. When hysteresis loss increases, maximum flux density that can pass by the core reduces, this means their saturation happens soon.
It makes the motor to draw more current for the same output with less efficiency and reduced torque. The more current taken by the motor dissipates in the form of heat and overall temperature rise increases may cause failure of windings.
Also having higher operations speed, bearing need to be re-greased more frequently
Can circuit breakers be reverse-fed or back-fed?
Any circuit breaker that does NOT have Line and Load (or + and – on DC breakers) identifying markings may be reverse fed
What is the difference between 2.8mm / 3.6mm / 6mm fixed cctv camera lenses?
2.8mm gives you the widest view and is generally the most common. 6mm gives a zoomed in image. If you are putting the cameras in a tight room go with the 2.8. If you want to see down a long hallway or wide view use a 6mm lenses