Variable frequency drive (VFD) and variable speed drive (VSD) are two types of drives that work with different motors. VFD drives are only compatible with alternating current (AC) motors. VSD drives can be used with either AC or direct current (DC) motors. Kurz Industrial can answer your questions about the two types of drives and explain the different uses and advantages of both.

VFD Drives

VFD drives are used in three different kinds of systems, which are AC motor controllers, driver/operator interface, and speed control. Variable frequency drives are used only in AC motors. Specifically, they are typically used in three-phase induction motors. They may occasionally be used in single-phase motors as well, but three-phase motors are more economical.

One sub-system where variable frequency drives are used is controllers. Controllers are power-operated systems that convert electricity from AC to DC. They are used in many applications ranging from transportation to solar energy technology. A variable frequency drive may also be used in an operator interface, which allows an operator to control specific aspects of a motor, including adjusting its operating speed and shutting off power when necessary. Other operator interface functions include switching from a manual to an automatic speed adjustment and reversing signals. Variable frequency drives are also used in speed control. They can be used either locally in a hardwired system or remotely through an electronic networking system. Networks use a communication application to transmit a desired speed.

Benefits of Variable Frequency Drives

Variable frequency drives have a number of benefits, including energy savings. VFD-based motors save energy because they can be operated at various levels of speed, which makes them more efficient than fixed-speed motors. By adjusting the speed of a motor, operators can also control the motor’s torque output and power, which translates to less energy usage. In the US, most electrical energy is used to power AC motors, and more AC motors are incorporating VFD technology for maximum efficiency and performance.

VSD Drives

A variable speed drive may be used in either an AC or a DC motor. VSD drives are used in a range of appliances, and they are commonly found in industrial processes. They are used primarily to control the speed of a motor. Unlike variable frequency drives, variable speed drives are used in both fixed-speed and variable-speed motors. They can be used in hydraulic, electronic, electromechanical, and mechanical applications.

What are VSDs Used For?

VSDs are used for two main reasons, which are energy conservation and process control. Historically, they were used mostly for process control, but they have been used to reduce energy consumption in recent years. They help save energy by adjusting the supply of energy to meet demand, rather than producing excess amounts of electricity. Variable speed drives also control the rate at which pumps operate in hydraulic applications, which helps them to create a smoother process of operation by matching inflow to outflow.

The staff at Kurz Industrial can provide all the information that you need about VSD and VFD drives and help you find a solution that is best for your needs. Contact the experts at Kurz today to learn more about the drives.