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Pumping, compressing, blowing, conveying, extruding and mixing are among most common industrial motor applications using variable frequency drives (VFDs). Understanding applications and drive design can help mitigate harmonics and power-quality challenges. As explained in part 1, when motors are started across the line on 60Hz utility power, efficient motor operation is limited to a very narrow window around the rated motor operating speed and torque values. Drives allow motors to operate at their optimal efficiency over a wide range of speeds, satisfying a wide range of varying torque requirements, while reducing motor stress and starting inrush current.

Learning Objectives

• Review variable frequency drive (VFD) fundamentals and how a VFD works on the way to understanding how non-linear loads create power-quality concerns.
• Understand harmonic filtering and how a VFD can help.
• Examine medium-voltage 36-pulse drive topology and how it reduces risk of equipment malfunction by reducing harmonic stress.

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