What does inverter-duty mean on a motor?

The term “inverter-duty” refers to a motor whose speed is controlled by an inverter or VFD (variable frequency drive). While both inverter-duty motors and standard motors are capable of operating under VFDs, the main differences lie in construction and capability.

What type of motor is required for VFD?

AC motor. The AC electric motor used in a VFD system is usually a three-phase induction motor. Some types of single-phase motors or synchronous motors can be advantageous in some situations, but generally three-phase induction motors are preferred as the most economical.

Can you run an inverter-duty motor without a VFD?

General-purpose motors don’t have to use a VFD though, they can be run directly off AC power, with power coming at a very clean and consistent sine wave at 60hz. This creates a steady flow of power with relatively few voltage peaks and little line noise as well.

How do you know if a motor is inverter-duty?

Motor insulation systems that are rated for inverter use will be specified on the motor nameplate (or a sticker).

What is the difference between an inverter duty motor and a standard motor?

As the name implies, inverter-duty refers to a gearmotor whose speed is controlled by an inverter, or VFD (variable frequency drive). The difference between an inverter-duty gearmotor and a standard gearmotor is in the construction. These motors are specifically designed to operate at low speeds and not overheat.

What is difference between inverter duty vs inverter ready motors?

These “inverter-ready” motors are suitable for use with variable torque loads over a wide speed range. In contrast, inverter-duty motors are wound with voltage spike-resistant insulation systems. and drive manufacturers about inverter rise times and effects of cable length.

What type of motor is commonly controlled by an inverter?

AC motor
An inverter controls the frequency of power supplied to an AC motor to control the rotation speed of the motor. Without an inverter, the AC motor would operate at full speed as soon as the power supply was turned ON. You would not be able to control the speed, making the applications for the motor limited.

What is the difference between inverter and VFD?

Inverters are also called AC Drives, or VFD (variable frequency drive). They are electronic devices that can turn DC (Direct Current) to AC (Alternating Current). It is also responsible for controlling speed and torque for electric motors.

What makes a motor inverter duty rated?

Medium-voltage inverter-duty motors with a base rating that exceeds 600 V must be able to withstand a peak voltage equal to 2.04 times the motor’s rated line-to-line voltage. Rise times must equal or exceed 1 microsecond.

How Slow Can an inverter duty motor be?

Generally speaking, TEFC motors are not designed to operate at less than a 4:1 speed range, while some manufacturers make a 10:1 or 20:1 range motor. Most often, operating the motor slower than this requires an auxiliary cooling system.