Do Variable Frequency Drives Reduce Energy Consumption?

A variable frequency drive (VFD’s) controls motor speed and torque, varying the power supplied to match the energy requirement of the driven equipment. The goal of VFD use is to optimize energy consumption in the industrial and manufacturing sectors. But do variable frequency drives reduce energy consumption?

Yes, variable frequency drives do save energy! What’s more, they achieve this energy consumption reduction in a variety of industrial applications.

In this short guide, we look at what VDFs are and examine how various industries can use them to reduce energy consumption.

What Are VFD’s And How Do They Work?

A variable frequency drive, also sometimes referred to as an AC drive or inverter, makes an AC motor work at variable speed. It does so by varying the frequency supplied to the motor. It also regulates the output voltage in proportion to the output frequency, providing more constant voltage-to-frequency ratios.

The VFD is possibly the most common type of output or load for control systems today. As manufacturing and industrial applications have become more complex, the VFD has met these new challenges. Modern VFDs can control the speed and torque of a motor but also control the motor shaft turning.

Indeed, VFD’s are now able to control a great variety of motor parameters. Newer VFDs can be controlled by programming from other programmable controllers like PLCs. These VFDs are typically smaller and more cost-efficient than in the past.

How VFDs Reduce Energy Consumption Across Industries

Some industrial applications don’t require a motor to run at full speed. Sometimes, you need to make adjustments to the speed and torque to improve your operations. Whatever the reason, you can use a VFD and reduce your energy consumption in a variety of ways.

These energy consumption reductions, when combined, can mean significant energy savings overall for your business. That saves you money – always a good thing, in any business.

But as you will see from the list below, there are additional benefits like increased equipment longevity and improved performance.

Compressors In Manufacturing, Agriculture, Or Food Processing

Compressors use a significant amount of energy. They compress air to higher pressures, which requires substantial power input, and any leaks or faults can further increase energy consumption. However, this does not mean that you cannot improve their energy consumption.

VFDs can optimize the pressure and flow of compressed air by adjusting motor speed. This not only reduces energy consumption but also reduces mechanical stress on the motor itself. Therefore, the VFD is also responsible for extending the life of your equipment.

Pumps And Fans In Industrial Site HVAC Applications

HVAC systems are used extensively in industry to improve productivity and comfort of the workforce, but also to maintain suitable ambient conditions for your equipment. Unfortunately, HVACs are also one of the main drivers of energy use in the industrial sector

Although the high energy needs of industrial HVAC applications are a constant reality, there are ways to minimize energy consumption. By reducing the speed of the motor, VFDs can reduce the flow of air in fans or fluid in pumps. Where flow demand is variable or intermittent, it saves a significant amount of energy.

Conveyor Belts In Manufacturing Environments

Conveyance systems are the backbone of most manufacturing industries, and we rely on them to transport products along the factory floor. But to do their job effectively, they must operate smoothly and deliver goods to each station, at exactly the right time. And this means, at exactly the right speed, too.

VFDs can sync the speed and torque of multiple motors, allowing a more efficient conveyance system. This saves energy, but also time, as the timing of the conveyor belts all sync up perfectly. They can also be used for soft start/stop functions to minimize the wear and tear on belts and pulleys.

Cranes, Extruders, And Mixers On Construction Sites

Your cranes, extruders, and mixers allow you to lift heavy loads, shape tubes and pipes, and combine materials effectively. Unfortunately, although they are necessary to continue operations, they also consume a lot of energy.

VFDs can adjust their speed and torque to reduce energy consumption. The added benefits are that you will suffer less waste, and see an improvement in the quality and consistency of your products.

Conclusion

Variable frequency drives are essential for optimizing energy consumption in the industrial sector. These energy savings save your business money and quite possibly even your equipment. This is probably why variable frequency drives are so widely used across so many industries.

At AEC, we know how much of a difference VFD’s can make to your business. That’s why we stock only the best VFDs, soft starts, motors, and control components that save you energy, money, and time.

Contact us today for your variable frequency drive needs.