Applications and Types of VFD Drives

Variable Frequency Drive (VFD or VVVF) is an electrical device that utilizes an inverter circuit to convert the power supply from industrial frequency to a variable frequency and voltage power supply, thereby controlling the speed of the motor.

Characteristics and Types of VFD Drives

There are many types of VFD drives, and they can be classified in various ways. Based on their usage, VFDs can be divided into two main categories: general-purpose VFDs and specialized VFDs.

General-purpose VFDs are versatile and can be used in various aspects. These VFDs simplify system functionality and primarily aim at energy saving, and they are mostly of small to medium capacity. They are generally used in scenarios where the system speed control performance is not highly required, like in pumps, fans, and blowers.

Specialized VFDs are designed and developed for a specific area or field. They are highly targeted, have unique functions and advantages, and can better utilize the variable frequency speed control, but their general applicability is lower.

Currently, the more common specialized VFDs include fan-specific VFDs, VFD for solar water pumping, machine tool VFDs, injection molding machine VFDs, textile-specific VFDs, elevator-specific VFDs, MPPT VFD and so on.

Common Applications of  VFDs

VFDs are widely used in the field of modern industrial automation. Here are some common application areas:

Motor Control

VFDs can be used to control the speed and power of motors, achieving precise motion control. They are widely used in machinery equipment, wind power generation units, conveyor equipment, and other fields.

Energy Saving Control

VFDs can adjust motor speed according to actual load demand, achieving energy-saving control. By adjusting with a VFD, motor energy consumption can be reduced, and system efficiency can be improved.

Constant Current and Voltage Control

VFDs can control the output current and voltage to achieve constant current and voltage control. They are widely used in fields like electroplating, electrolysis, battery charging, etc., thus improving the stability and efficiency of load equipment.    

Photovoltaic Power Generation System

VFDs play an important role in photovoltaic power generation systems. They can convert the DC electricity produced by solar photovoltaic panels to AC, feeding it back into the grid for user consumption.