From automatic robotics to high-quality HVAC systems, you can find VFD cables everywhere. VFD stands for variable frequency drive. These cables have to be as rigorous and resilient as possible to meet the demands of the latest machinery of today.
They are a type of controller that varies the frequency of the signal as well as voltage to control motor speed. Other common names for VFD cable are variable speed drive, adjustable speed drive, constant torque drive, and inverter drive. When working with a VFD system, you have to opt for a VFD cable that can withstand the harsh electrical environment. If we talk about the standard cables, they aren’t meant for such an environment. VFD system creates a huge amount of electrical noise in the form of voltage spikes, reflected waves, charging currents, common-mode voltage, and RFI/EMI interference. It results in voltages that are 2-3 times the source voltage.
- The absence of VFD cables can cause insulation breakdown as well as cable failure. Without the VFD cable, voltage finds its way to the VFD motor and equipment ground which results in motor and equipment failure.
- If you even made adjustments to your VFD controller in order to reduce or eliminate nuisance faults, this may be a sign that the standard cable you are currently using is not perfect for the VFD system.
- If you are experiencing VFD motor failure much sooner than expected, it indicates that you are using poorly-suited cables.
VFD system
The VFD system mainly comprises three components: a VFD controller, a VFD motor, and a VFD cable. You can commonly find these systems where motors are used to control a process or equipment requiring different motor speeds (pumps, fans, compressors, conveyors, and more).
Benefits of using the VFD system
- Better control
VFD motor speed can be controlled within 0.1% percent tolerance which assists the most complex processes.
- Better efficiencies
Perfectly designed systems can decrease energy costs.
- Smooth motor start
It reduces motor fatigue as well as early failure.
- Silent performance
VFD system also ensures silent performance.
Why it is crucial to select a high-quality VFD cable over standard cable
Standard cables can pose a risk of failure related to high voltage spikes (1,500 volts or more) as well as the corona discharge responsible to damage the jacket or insulation or both. The VFD motor and drive cable offer perfect shielding required to decrease EMI/RFI noise and to offer a low impedance signal return path which helps prevent common mode or stray voltage that leads to the premature failure of cable or equipment or both.
Last words
Machine designers must take into account several details of the application when looking for the right motor and drive cable. Furthermore, VFC cables need to be highly flexible, oil resistant, and tolerant to both hot as well as cold temperatures.