Peter Walter, ABB, New Berlin, Wis.

Specifying Adjustable Frequency Drives for Electromagnetic Compatibility

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is the ability of electrical and electronic equipment to operate in its installation environment while neither causing nor experiencing electromagnetic interference (EMI). EMI is any interference with normal equipment operation caused by abnormal energy entering the equipment either by conduction though wiring connections or by radiated wave reception. Radiated EMI is also called radio frequency interference (RFI). Conducted EMI is also called high-frequency line noise. Codes and standards In the United States, there are no codes and standards that specifically and completely cover electromagnetic compatibility of adjustable frequency drives (AFDs).