This webinar recording explains the basics of low voltage AC drive types and control methods.

While adding variable speed capability in commercial buildings is not a new idea, a new analysis confirms major energy and cost savings is available by pairing those products with a power drive system (PDS) – regardless of a pump’s load variability. A PDS combines an electric motor, adjustable speed controls and sensors that provide feedback to the equipment, allowing the equipment to slow down or speed up to meet current demand. This idea and the added flexibility a PDS can provide may be even more important as we move forward in uncertain times.

When selecting a drive for an application, there are many technical and commercial issues to explore in arriving at a choice. The scope of this article is to consider some of the technical issues involved. This article looks at:

• Determining the power available
• Overload capability
• Environment
• Type of control
• Type of communication
• Braking
• Speed regulation
• Other considerations
• Operation at other than 50 or 60 Hz base speed