Variable Frequency Drives

Figure 1: Even general-purpose VFDs, like the Automation Direct DURApulse GS20 family, include advanced features like sensorless vector control and torque control modes. More capable models, like the WEG CFW500, include these capabilities, and add other features, like encoder support and flux vector control mode which allows 100% torque at zero speed.

Torque control: The other VFD operating mode

May 1, 2023

Torque control is necessary for many types of winding/unwinding applications to maintain proper product tension. General-purpose sensorless vector VFDs can now perform this function...

A demonstration of a closed-loop cooling system.

Variable Frequency Drives

How to protect VFDs from overheating

Jon LaPorta

Dec. 15, 2022

Many types of new and retrofit motorized machinery and processing equipment are using intelligent VFDs due to the performance and operating cost advantages. Redundancy at the field network and the controller is now economical and practical even for smaller applications.

Variable Frequency Drives

Improved VFD redundancy increases uptime

Darrell Halterman

Aug. 15, 2022

Variable Frequency Drives

VFDs: Running to failure

Kair Turubayev

July 15, 2022

Figure 1: Washdown-rated compact VFDs offered by AutomationDirect can provide all the necessary logic, process and motor control for an application, and many times eliminate the need for a separate control enclosure or electrical panel.

Variable Frequency Drives

Reducing complexity and cost with NEMA 4X VFDs

Kevin McClelion

May 16, 2022

While hazardous environments pose challenges to the use of VFD-controlled inverter duty motors, they can be surmounted through careful planning, product selection and installation. The efficiency, productivity and other benefits of these VFD systems will create substantial opportunities for applications in these environments.

Variable Frequency Drives

5 things to consider when installing variable frequency drives in hazardous locations

Matt Asbill

Dec. 14, 2021

Variable Frequency Drives

Figure 2: (Opposite) AutomationDirect VFDs include V/Hz control mode standard, which is good for many applications such as centrifugal pumps, fans and material conveyors. Images courtesy of AutomationDirect

Variable Frequency Drives

Choosing VFD control modes

Kevin Kakascik

June 29, 2020

Figure 1: The small size and wide operating temperature range of some VFDs, like the models shown here from AutomationDirect, make it convenient to install them in almost any situation. All images courtesy of AutomationDirect

Variable Frequency Drives

Beyond process control with VFDs

Bryan Sisler

May 26, 2020