Variable frequency drive

How it is used

Very common on conveyors, pumps and fans. Usually called a VFD, an inverter or simply a drive (AC drive). Engineers set ramp times, speed references and motor data, and the drive reports faults such as overcurrent or overvoltage.

Example sentences

1. The variable frequency drive tripped on overcurrent when the conveyor jammed.

2. Increase the ramp time on the variable frequency drive so the boxes don't fall over when the belt starts.

Common collocations

• VFD fault
• ramp time
• speed reference
• AC drive
• drive parameters

Related terms

• conveyorA machine that moves products or materials from one place to another on a moving belt, chain or rollers, along a line or between stations.
• servo motorAn electric motor with a built-in position sensor, usually an encoder, so that a drive can control its position, speed and torque very precisely. Robot joints are normally moved by servo motors.
• actuatorA component that turns energy, such as electricity, compressed air or hydraulic oil, into movement. Motors and pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders are typical actuators.
• fieldbusA digital industrial network that connects controllers with field devices such as sensors, drives, valve terminals and remote I/O, replacing many separate wires.
• setpointThe target value a control system tries to reach and hold, such as a temperature of 60 °C, a speed of 1,500 rpm or a pressure of 6 bar.

More terms: Sensors, Motors and Actuators

• sensor
• encoder
• proximity sensor
• limit switch
• pneumatic cylinder
• stepper motor
• photoelectric sensor
• solenoid valve