Table of Contents
Where is a VFD installed?
The variable frequency drive must be mounted on a vibration free vertical surface, away from heat radiating sources. Do not mount the variable frequency drive in direct sunlight or on a hot surface. The variable frequency drive must be mounted vertically. No other mounting orientation is acceptable.
Where would variable frequency drives VFD’s be used with HVAC equipment?
They are widely used in the HVAC field, including fans, pumps, compressors, etc. In a VFD-equipped system, the VFD adjusts the speed of one or more motors based on the system load requirements and operation schedule, resulting in a dramatic cut in energy consumption.
What is the use of VFD in Ahu?
Abstract: Variable frequency drives (VFD) enable control of the speed of three phase motors which allows the motor to be operated with variable current inputs. This technology can be used in Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems to lower fan operating speeds, reducing energy consumption.
Can a VFD be installed on any motor?
Output voltages are available for VFDs to match almost any existing motor voltage. However, very few, if any, VFDs have a direct 13,800-volt output for very high-voltage motors. For these cases, using a step-up transformer on the output of the VFD is often necessary to match the motor voltage.
How much does it cost to install a VFD?
Typical installed costs of VFD systems range from $200 to $500 per horsepower (HP).
How does VFD work in HVAC?
A Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) is like a throttle on a car: • Based on demand, a VFD adjusts the speed of an HVAC fan or pump motor, saving energy and prolonging equipment life. A VFD responds to a signal from a controller, allowing the equipment to run at the power needed to meet heating and cooling demand.
What is ahu in HVAC?
An Air Handling Unit (AHU) is used to re-condition and circulate air as part of a heating, ventilating and air-conditioning system. AHUs connect to ductwork that distributes the conditioned air through the building and returns it to the AHU.
Which benefit is for VFD?
The most significant benefit to using a VFD is energy savings. By matching system capacity to the actual load throughout the entire year, major savings in system motor energy use are achieved. Another benefit of the units is reduced wear and tear on the motors.
What is flange mounted drive?
In flange mounting (push through), the drive is installed from a flange onto a cabinet wall so that the heatsink is outside the cabinet. This way, the air flow through the drive control section, and the heatsink is separated. As only the control section is inside the cabinet, less heat is generated within the cabinet.
Do I need a special motor for a VFD?
If the Motor is pre-EPAct (1992), it should be run on VFDs only with careful consideration. Motors made during that time were not made for VFD use, but if they are VFD rated, will be okay. Class F insulation or higher is suitable for VFD use, but VFDs may have no more than a 2:1 Constant Torque ratio.