System optimisation
- Introduction
- Optimising pump and fan applications
- Control technologies
Control technologies
There are many opportunities for you to optimise motor systems through improved motor control. Fans, pumps and compressors in industrial and commercial installations are invariably driven by electric motors rated to cope with maximum load conditions, despite the fact that such loading conditions may only occur for a fraction of operating time.
For instance, you are likely to select a refrigeration compressor motor which can provide maximum refrigeration on the hottest day, or a pump motor which provides constant pressure at the end of a pipeline or duct at maximum flow rate.
Traditionally, either this excess capacity is throttled, or inlet regulators are used. These techniques can be inefficient and place limits on production. However, improved control through variable speed drives (VSD) can both improve efficiency and increase production capability.
VSD or adjustable speed drives (ASD) allow you to match the performance of a motor to the requirements of the process. In some applications, installing VSDs can result in energy savings of more than 50 per cent.
VSDs can also provide benefits such as soft-starting, over-speed capability and improved power factor. However, they can produce harmonics that may be harmful to other equipment, and can impact on motor life if you do not limit low speed operation.
Motor Solutions
Key
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