Inverter drives are variable speed drives designed to convert AC (alternate current) into DC (direct current), allowing a precise and controlled speed as well as torque for various outputs or electric motors. These electronic devices are used when operating various electronics or office appliances. They are indispensable speed drives for preventing energy waste in various industrial applications. Inverters control, boost, and save energy in business settings with enhanced productivity and reduced material waste. These drives feature three-phase or single-phase configurations for controlling smaller and larger machinery, compressors, and appliances.
What Are the Alternate Names for an Inverter Drive?
Some of the alternate names for the inverter drive include:
- Inverters
- Inverter Drives
- Drives
- AC Drives
- Micro Drives
- Adjustable Speed Drives
- Adjustable Frequency Drives
- Power Converters
- Variable Frequency Drives
- Variable Speed Drives
- Frequency Converters.
How Does an Inverter Drive Work?
Inverter drives allow greater control and precision over desired operations and machinery by accepting input frequencies or parameters. They work simply and in a straightforward way when a power inverter is located between an electric supply and a motor and regulates the power accordingly.
Key Benefits and Features of Inverter Drives:
The frequency drives offer a great range of benefits due to remarkable features, such as:
- Available in varied sleek designs.
- They are compact and energy-saving.
- Easy to install with emergency stops.
- Used to control both small appliances (fans, pump loads) and larger devices.
- Allow easy setting and monitoring for different parameters due to Digital operation LED input screens.
- Available in different voltage configurations with multiple applications.
The Difference Between Variable Speed Drive and Variable Frequency Drive:
These drives differ based on their operations; for example, variable speed drives (VSDs) leave the motor to operate at its design speed and alter the speed-driven equipment. In contrast, variable frequency drives (VFDs) control the speed of the motor by changing the applied frequency and voltage to the standard AC motor’s stator at different levels, like during the run, start-up, and at the motor stop.
What Are the Typical Applications of Inverter Drives?
- Inverter drives are ideal for a wide range of applications, with motors requiring a controlled and precise speed and torque in industrial settings.
- They are also suitable for larger compressors, machine controls, and smaller appliances like simple stand fans and pump loads.