Due to the variety of uses, varieties, and prices of vector inverters, it is easy to misunderstand some of the advantages of using inverters. Below are six common myths about inverters that we have heard over the years. Take a look and make sure you are not under the wrong impression of using inverters in your application.

1.The programming and control of vector inverters are relatively complex

Most modern inverters have an impressive list of available parameter settings. Don’t be surprised if it makes you feel like you need to use these parameters to program every inverter application. In our experience, most inverters actually only require a few parameters to be set, usually around 10.

2.Inverters are expensive

Compared to traditional starters or other devices, frequency converters are considered an expensive option. In fact, frequency converters have become more economical over time, and many manufacturers have met the need for low-cost drives. Looking at the frequency converters of Bao Mueller, many are designed specifically for those who are looking for a simpler and more economical frequency converter. It is worth noting that in addition to the additional cost, in many applications, frequency converters can also save a lot of energy, thereby saving months to years of costs. In addition, in some applications, frequency converters can increase production and equipment uptime.

3.Installing a frequency converter on your motor always saves energy

While energy savings are a key benefit of using a VFD, this is not always the case. You can see ideal energy savings in fan or pump applications, as they typically do not need to run at full speed all the time. Because the VFD can match the load to the motor, it can effectively eliminate unnecessary excess power for a certain period of time. Regardless of the application or speed used, VFDs generally offer benefits to every application.

4.The size of the vector inverter should be adjusted according to the horsepower of the motor

Although horsepower is not generally considered an accurate way to describe the size of a motor or inverter, and several factors affect motor power, make sure your motor has the correct inverter size. One way to do this is to check the full load current rating on the motor nameplate. If you don't know where to find this information, you can contact the motor manufacturer to find an inverter that will fit your motor size.

5.The vector inverter will eliminate all mechanical and electrical stress

Although VFDs can eliminate mechanical shock and high starting currents, they also generate harmful high-frequency currents in the power supply system. For most VFDs, our engineers recommend using at least one line reactor to help control harmful harmonics and power pollution. The larger the frequency, the more careful you need to be, because it can affect not only your power system, but also your neighbor's power system. Here is more information about harmonics and how harmonic filters work.

6. Vector inverter requires a special motor

Many people think that VFDs require a special type of motor, but any three-phase induction motor can run on a VFD. However, there are some things to consider before using a VFD on a motor. For example, if your motor is older, you may want to check the insulation levels and see if the wires are rated for the VFD. When running at low speeds, make sure the motor is cooled correctly, the lead lengths are not too long which can cause dV/dT, and investing in a shaft grounding ring will help keep the motor running efficiently.

Hopefully, reading these six misconceptions about using vector drives will help you better understand the benefits of drives in your application. Understanding how a drive will affect all parts of your application, including the motor, will help you run your application as smoothly as possible. Check out our drive product showcase to see the various sizes and models of drives we offer.

Guangdong Dingshen Electric Technology Co., Ltd.'s main products include inverters, vector inverters, high-performance inverters, economical inverters, etc. Founded in 2014, the company is a high-tech enterprise that focuses on the independent research and development, manufacturing, design, sales and service of motor controllers and industrial automation controllers. The company has a loyal and high-level cooperative team. The team has rich field experience and problem-solving skills, solid product design and development skills, innovative, open and free R&D team atmosphere, many years of automation industry service experience, a deep understanding of customer needs and industry development trends, and a strong combination with distribution channels to serve customers in real time.