Everyone knows that motors are the workhorses of industry. They move machinery, fans, pumps, compressors, conveyors, elevators, etc. How are they controlled? The simple way is by using across-the-line control and turning them on and off. This works great in most cases, but what if you need to vary the speed of the motor? Control the acceleration or deceleration? Do a controlled stop? What if you want to control the motor based on torque feedback instead of speed?
Enter the microprocessor-based AC Variable Frequency Drive or VFD. VFDs are high-end devices that control three-phase AC motors. They enable speed and torque control for countless applications. As technology improved, they started adding more features such as dynamic braking, PID process control, and more intelligent characteristics. VFDs have become so advanced that they might include built-in PLCs, sophisticated safety attributes such as Safe Torque Off (STO), and connectivity to several industrial networks. Some are even rated for harsh washdown duty applications.
AutomationDirect is your go-to source for purchasing anything involving AC VFDs. We offer eleven different series of drives from four brands in sizes up to 300 hp! From small to large applications, we have it all! AutomationDirect has been selling PLCs and other industrial automation products, including VFDs, since 1994. We offer FREE shipping and FREE technical support for all products we sell and offer a 45-day return policy on most products. You can TRUST AutomationDirect as a reliable AC Variable Frequency Drives supplier.
Looking for even more VFD-related content? Click on the Products menu to see more articles on AC Drives!
What is a VFD?
Variable frequency drives are devices for starting, stopping and varying the speed of AC motors to improve control of equipment control and save energy. Read More –>
Putting Advanced VFDs to Work in More Applications
New VFD features and technologies improve the control, safety, networking, and efficiency of motor control for a growing number of applications. Read More –>
What Is a VFD or AC Drive? From AutomationDirect
Have you ever wondered how automation-based industries achieve variable speed control and maximize energy efficiency for their AC motors? They accomplish this with variable frequency drives (VFDs) or AC Drives. Check out this video to learn more about VFDs and the options we carry at AutomationDirect.com! Watch Now –>
VFDs Keep the Good Times Pumping
This resort site uses AutomationDirect VFDs to control waterpark systems, in the process adding the capability to manage and upgrade their own equipment. Read More –>
VFD Speed Control Versus Torque Control
Speed control is the most common VFD control mode, but many of today’s VFDs can also perform in torque control mode, which is needed for certain applications. Read More –>
Helping Automation Users Wake Up and Smell the Coffee
Automation of a tabletop coffee roaster demonstrates how home automation projects can help users explore new technologies and develop their skills. Read More–>
WEG CFW500 Safe Torque Off (STO) Part 1 from AutomationDirect
Safe Torque Off (STO) is the quickest and safest way to remove power from a motor. And the WEG CFW500 drive has both standard STO and SS1-t where you can control the decel ramp. Part 1 uses a simple ESTOP button wired directly to the drive’s STO module. Watch Now –>
What’s Really Causing your VFD’s DC Bus Overvoltage Fault? | White Paper
Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) are a crucial component in industrial automation, providing precise control over a motor’s speed and torque. Numerous built-in protections and fault indications are provided with modern VFDs, including the commonly seen DC Bus Overvoltage Fault. Download Now –>
Micro VFDs Provide Big Features
Trickle-down technology has resulted in modern micro VFDs with capabilities formerly available only on top-tier models. Read More Now –>
NEMA 4X VFDs Simplify Installations and Cut Costs
AutomationDirect washdown-rated VFDs help users add control functionality and realize cost savings even in challenging locations. Read More Now –>