Webcast: Variable frequency drives (VFDs), variable speed drives (VSDs), and motors

Engineers must understand how the components in the systems they design use power and how they can be optimized without compromising traditional design values. Standard induction motors use (and waste) electricity.

By CFE Media June 11, 2015

Engineers must understand how the components in the systems they design use power and how they can be optimized without compromising traditional design values. Standard induction motors use (and waste) electricity. Total motor energy usage for the industrial sector outstrips commercial usage by roughly 3:1. To reduce operational costs across all nonresidential buildings, variable frequency drives (VFDs) and variable speed drives (VSDs) are frequently used with ac induction motors that operate pumps, fans, compressors, or similar equipment with variable load profiles.

Although engineers have little control over the applicable efficiency standards and codes they are mandated to follow, they are still tasked with designing appropriately sized and functional systems. The adoption of more stringent energy codes and standards has put greater emphasis on energy efficiency in engineering designs. Efficiency requirements will only become more stringent. This webcast addresses the efficiency standards that apply to ac induction motors and the systems in which they operate, load issues, applications, and harmonic mitigation.

Learning objectives:

  • The audience will understand the requirements of the applicable codes and standards, including ASHRAE Standard 90.1: Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings; International Energy Conservation Code (IECC); Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 (EPCA-1975); Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct-1992); Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA-2007); and NEMA MG 1-2011 motor standard for manufacturers.
  • Attendees will learn how load affects the speed range, size, and efficiency of ac induction motors.
  • Attendees will know when to specify closed-loop versus open-loop drives for various applications.
  • Viewers will learn how to minimize harmonics typically associated with VFDs.

Moderator:

Jack Smith, Consulting-Specifying Engineer, and CFE Media LLC

Presenters:

  • John Yoon, PE, LEED AP, senior staff electrical engineer, McGuire Engineers Inc., Chicago
  • Kenneth L. Lovorn, PE, president, Lovorn Engineering Associates, Pittsburgh

Author Bio: Since its founding in 2010, CFE Media and Technology has provided engineers in manufacturing, commercial and industrial buildings, and manufacturing control systems with the knowledge they need to improve their operational efficiency. CFE delivers the right information at the right time around the world through a variety of platforms.