Why do we need VFDs?

Despite being commercially available for over 50 years, many industrial users still ask why they should use VFDs instead of traditional motor starters like DOL, Star-Delta, or soft starters. This is not a failure of the VFD technology but rather a failure to effectively communicate the many benefits that VFDs offer.

The adoption of #vfds in specific applications and industries has been hindered by a lack of targeted marketing and education. Marketers for various brands have often focused on public benefits, leaving salespeople to communicate the advantages of VFDs to potential customers on the ground. This approach has resulted in a lack of uniformity and different ideas in the minds of users using the same model at different sites.

While I do not speak for any brand or do not present a case study on any application, here is my general viewpoint on the problems that VFDs solve & why we should use VFDs in our respective industries.

Perspective on Energy Saving by VFDs?

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA) , industrial motors account for approximately 28% of global electricity consumption, corresponding to about 8,013 TWh (terawatt-hours) of energy consumed annually, i.e. 6,811,050,000,000 kgs of CO2 emission.

It's important to note that this percentage can vary depending on the region and the specific industry. Depending on their production processes and equipment, some industries may use more or less energy. However, industrial motors significantly contribute to global energy consumption & #climatechange. Reducing their energy usage through technologies such as VFDs can substantially impact energy efficiency and #sustainability.

The potential energy savings from using VFDs on industrial motors can vary depending on several factors, such as the specific application, the load profile, and the motor's efficiency. However, studies have shown that energy savings of up to 50% or more can be achieved by using VFDs on industrial motors.

Assuming a conservative estimate of 20% energy savings from using VFDs on all industrial motors, we could potentially reduce the energy consumed by industrial motors from 28% to 22.4% of total global electricity consumption. This represents a significant reduction in energy usage, which could translate into lower energy costs and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

It's important to note that the actual energy savings from using VFDs can vary depending on the specific application and other factors, so conducting a thorough analysis of the potential savings before implementing VFDs in any industrial setting is essential.

VFDs: Saving the Environment and Your Wallet

No, VFDs are not just for #energysaving reasons & climate change, although that should be good enough to convince you of it. Here are some additional reasons why VFDs are essential:

1. Precise Control: VFDs offer precise control over the speed and torque of a motor. This allows for better control of the process being driven by the motor, which can result in better product quality, increased efficiency, and reduced downtime due to equipment failure.
2. Soft Start: VFDs can provide a soft start for motors, which reduces the initial power surge and mechanical stress on the motor and other equipment. This can extend the motor's life and reduce the need for maintenance and repairs.
3. Speed Range: VFDs can allow a motor to operate over a broader range of speeds, which can be helpful in applications where the motor needs to operate at different speeds or where the load demand varies over time.
4. Improved Safety: VFDs can improve safety in industrial applications by providing better control over the motor and reducing the risk of equipment failure or accidents.
5. Cost-Effective: While energy savings is one of the primary benefits of using VFDs, they can also be cost-effective in the long run. By reducing energy consumption and extending equipment life, VFDs can help lower operating costs and reduce the need for costly repairs or replacements.
6. Improved Productivity: VFDs can enhance productivity by allowing more precise control over motor speed. This can result in smoother operation, better product quality, and reduced downtime due to equipment failures.

Let's collaborate to promote VFDs in specific industries and applications, and achieve growth and sustainability. I'm open to exploring product benefits and market approaches to educate and promote VFDs. Let's connect and make it happen.

#variablefrequencydrive #manufacturing #acdrives