Consulting-Specifying Engineer 2015 Product of the Year finalists: Variable frequency drives, variable speed drives

Read about the four finalists in the Variable Frequency Drives and Variable Speed Drives category for the Consulting-Specifying Engineer 2015 Product of the Year program.

By Amanda Pelliccione April 6, 2015

Screw compressor with integrated VSD

The CSVW2 is an energy-efficient positive displacement compact screw compressor specially designed for liquid chillers with low condensing temperature applications. To achieve a high coefficient of performance for this type of application—and thus exceptional IPLV and ESEER ratings—Bitzer has integrated a permanent magnet motor and innovative drive technology into this compact screw design. The internal volume ratio of the compressor is adjusted to allow the CSVW2 series to achieve high efficiency in the lower speed and load range. The integrated variable speed drive (VSD) is refrigerant gas-cooled and pre-wired with the motor, sensors, and controls.

Bitzer SE
www.bitzer.de


Variable speed compressor, drive

The Copeland Scroll variable speed commercial compressor and motor control drive achieves superior performance through an expansive speed range—1,000 to 7,200 rpm—and delivers enhanced light load efficiency and dehumidification. Scroll oil injection delivers excellent low-speed performance and design enhancements that reduce sound during reversible chiller transition and defrost. An expanded operating envelope provides flexibility in design and desired condition with low turndown speed for less cycling, better dehumidification, and light load efficiency. The variable speed motor control drive is optimized for the compressor with customized parameter settings for quick and easy setup.

Emerson Climate Technologies
www.emersonclimate.com


All-in-one variable frequency drive

The A800 series all-in-one variable frequency drive (VFD) combines traditional induction and permanent magnet motors into a single solution, providing high-performance response and energy-efficient motor control. The A800 meets the growing need among original equipment manufacturers, end users, and system integrators for a multiple-capacity VFD. It can be used in both induction motors and next-generation interior permanent motors, and is suitable for both low-performance applications—such as pumps and fans—as well as high-performance industrial applications. A800 VFDs are ideally suited as replacements for hydraulic drive systems, gear motors, and inefficient motor drive systems.

Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc.
us.mitsubishielectric.com/fa/en 


Decentralized variable frequency drive

The PowerGate 66 IP66/NEMA 4 variable frequency drive (VFD) is a stand-alone engineered solution that incorporates a version of the Mitsubishi Electric E700 VFD into a custom-made, water-resistant enclosure for use in harsh environments. The PowerGate 66 drive is ideal for applications that require precise motor speed, pump, and/or fan control in wet or dusty locations. The VFD’s design places it closer to the motor, improving efficiency and preventing motor damage, while the enclosure protects against dirt and water. Connection to Ethernet and other factory communications networks is also possible with the PowerGate 66.

Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc.
us.mitsubishielectric.com/fa/en


Vote for the 2015 Product of the Year


Author Bio: Amanda is the Research Director and Project Manager of Awards Programs for CFE Media and its publications.