Toshiba VFDs

More Information About Toshiba VFDs

Toshiba Adjustable Speed Drives

Toshiba adjustable speed drives are advanced motor control systems that allow precise control of the speed and torque of an AC electric motor. Adjustable speed drives operate by converting incoming AC power into DC power using a rectifier, and then converting it back into AC power at the desired frequency and voltage using an inverter. This allows for precise control of the motor's speed and torque, as well as energy efficiency improvements.

FAQs

What industry or market benefits the most from VFDs?

The industry or market that benefits the most from VFDs are: HVAC, water and wastewater treatment, manufacturing, oil and gas and mining.

Can adjustable speed drives be used on pumps?

Yes, adjustable speed drives are commonly used on pumps to control their speed and improve their energy efficiency. Using an adjustable speed drive on a pump motor allows for precise control of the motor's speed, which in turn controls the pump's flow rate.

Motor Starters

Motor starters safely start and stop a motor in industrial applications. They are designed with a contactor, overload and circuit protection. They are used when basic motor control is required, where torque on the motor is not a concern and speed control is not needed. The advantages of motor starters include: lower cost, allows for remote operation, allows for monitoring of motor state (with the use of auxiliary contacts) and they are safe and efficient. The disadvantages include: high inrush current that can cause fuses to blow and breakers to trip if the inrush is too high, and the starter will allow a full torque to start the motor which can cause the motor to ramp up to full speed very quickly potentially causing the motor to wear and degrade prematurely.

Soft Starters

Soft starters protect motors from inrush current by gently ramping up the motor to full speed. They provide all of the same functions as a traditional motor starter. The advantages of soft starters include: they are less expensive than a VFD when only startup control is needed, they are a smaller system than a VFD where space is a concern and they prevent unwanted torque upon startup, prolonging the life of the motor. The disadvantages include: they are more expensive than a traditional motor starter and they do not allow for full speed control. 

Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)

Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) allow for the slow ramp up of a motor during startup and the slowing down of the motor during shutdown. They also allow for full speed control during the entire run cycle of the motor. VFDs provide the same functions as both the traditional motor starters and soft starters. The advantages of VFDs include: full speed control (start, stop and in-between), more custom control and monitoring, energy savings due to efficient motor usage and less wear and tear on the motors. The disadvantages include: they are more expensive and larger than other motor control options and they generate heat that may require fans or AC units.