Automatic Restart of Veichi AC310 Frequency Converter After Power Failure

Automatic Restart of Veichi AC310 Frequency Converter After Power Failure: Detailed Setup and Safety Guide

In modern industrial production, uninterrupted equipment operation is critically important to maintain productivity and efficiency. Unexpected power outages can lead to production stoppages, resulting in significant financial losses and downtime. Veichi AC310 series frequency converters (FCs), like many other modern devices, offer an automatic restart feature after power restoration, which helps minimize the consequences of such failures. This feature allows for the quick resumption of motor operation without operator intervention, which is especially valuable for remote sites or systems running continuously.

In this detailed guide, we will review how to properly configure the automatic start function on the Veichi AC310 frequency converter, which parameters control it, and also discuss important safety aspects and practical application examples. Understanding these settings will enable you to optimize your equipment operation, enhance its reliability, and ensure the continuity of production processes.

Main Auto-Start Parameters of Veichi AC310: F07.06 – The Key to Continuity

The central parameter responsible for the behavior of the Veichi AC310 frequency converter after power restoration is F07.06 — "Selection of restart action upon power failure". This parameter defines exactly how the converter will respond when voltage returns after a power loss. Choosing the correct value for this parameter is critical for safe and effective system operation.

0: Deactivated

This is the default factory setting. In this mode, the frequency converter will not start automatically after power restoration. It will remain in standby, and a manual command from an operator or an external control signal is required to start it. This mode is considered safe by default since it prevents unexpected equipment startup.

1: Speed Tracking Startup

This mode is recommended for most applications. When power is restored, the converter first analyzes the motor's state. If the motor is still rotating by inertia (for example, a fan or pump), the Veichi AC310 detects its current speed and rotation direction. It then smoothly "catches" the motor, synchronizing its output frequency with the motor's current speed, and gradually ramps it up to the designated operating frequency. This method prevents mechanical shocks, overcurrents, and possible errors that can occur when trying to start a motor already in motion.

2: Start According to Start Mode

In this mode, the converter will start as configured in parameter F07.00 (start mode). This could involve starting from zero frequency, with pre-braking, or another set algorithm. This option is suitable for applications where the motor is guaranteed to stop after a power failure or where a quick, but not necessarily smooth, start is acceptable. However, if the motor is still rotating, this may lead to overcurrents or mechanical stress.

To enable the auto-start function, set F07.06 to 1 or 2, depending on your load specifics and process requirements. For most cases, especially where there are inertial loads, the value 1 is the better choice.

Below is a table for clearer understanding of F07.06 parameter settings:

Time Delay Setting for Stable Start: F07.07

After power restoration, short-term voltage fluctuations often occur, which can negatively affect equipment stability. To prevent premature startup of the Veichi AC310 frequency converter under unstable network conditions, a time delay parameter is provided.

F07.07 — "Waiting time for restart after power failure".

Range: 0.00 ~ 60.00 seconds.

Factory default: 0.50 seconds.

Description: This parameter defines the time interval the converter waits after the network voltage is restored before issuing a start command to the motor. The default 0.50 seconds is sufficient for most stable networks. However, if your power network is characterized by frequent or prolonged voltage fluctuations on startup, it is recommended to increase this time. This allows the network to stabilize, preventing false starts or potential equipment damage due to unstable power supply.

For example, if you operate in conditions where repeated short voltage dips may occur after power restoration, setting F07.07 to 5-10 seconds can significantly increase system reliability. This gives sufficient time for full network recovery and stabilization before Veichi AC310 attempts to start the motor.

Additional Functions for Short Voltage Dips: F10.16 and F10.17

Besides complete power loss, industrial networks may suffer short voltage dips (sags) that do not cause full shutdown but may trigger the "Lu" (under-voltage) error on the Veichi AC310 frequency converter and cause motor stoppage. To combat this phenomenon, Veichi AC310 offers an under-voltage suppression feature allowing the system to continue operation during brief voltage drops.

F10.16 — "DC bus under-voltage suppression function"

Set to 1 (Enabled). When activated, the Veichi AC310 frequency converter will automatically adjust its output frequency to maintain DC bus voltage. This is achieved by using the kinetic energy of the rotating motor (regeneration), which is converted back into electrical energy to support the bus voltage. Thus, the converter can "ride through" short voltage dips without stopping or triggering the "Lu" fault.

F10.17 — "Under-voltage suppression point"

This parameter defines the DC bus voltage threshold at which the under-voltage suppression function (F10.16) activates. For Veichi AC310 models designed for 380V networks, the typical factory threshold value is 430V. You can adjust this value according to your network specifics and equipment sensitivity. Correct setting of F10.17 allows precise determination of when the converter should start actively compensating voltage drops.

Activation of these functions is especially useful for systems where even short stops are highly undesirable, such as continuous production lines or life-support systems.

Important Safety Aspects: Always Remember the Risks!

⚠️ Warning! Safety: Activating parameter F07.06 on the Veichi AC310 frequency converter means that the equipment connected to it (motor, pump, fan, conveyor, etc.) will start independently and unexpectedly for personnel immediately after power is supplied. This creates a potential safety hazard for people and machinery.

Before activating the auto-start function, conduct a thorough risk assessment. Ensure that automatic startup does not pose a threat to:

Personnel: Is there a risk of crushing, impact, falls, or other injuries if equipment suddenly starts moving?

Machinery: Could unexpected startup damage equipment, tools, or materials in the working area?

Technological process: Will automatic startup disrupt the sequence of technological operations or cause product defects?

Be sure to place appropriate warning signs near equipment operating in auto-start mode. These signs should clearly inform about the possibility of unexpected startup. Training personnel on safety rules when working with such equipment is also required. In some cases, additional safety systems may be needed, such as light and sound alarms before startup, protective guards, or access blocking systems.

Examples of Veichi AC310 Auto-Start Applications in Industry

The automatic restart function is extremely useful in many industrial sectors where operational continuity is a priority. Consider several typical examples:

1. Conveyor Systems

On production lines using conveyors to transport materials or products, any stoppage due to power failure leads to downtime of the entire process. Setting Veichi AC310 to auto-start (F07.06 = 1) enables the conveyor to automatically resume movement after power returns. This minimizes downtime, prevents product accumulation, and ensures uninterrupted production flow. It is important to ensure the conveyor area is free of personnel and foreign objects before automatic start.

2. Pump Stations

In water supply, wastewater, or irrigation systems, pump stations often operate continuously. Power failure can halt water delivery or cause flooding. Thanks to Veichi AC310 auto-start, pumps automatically resume work, maintaining required pressure or liquid levels. The speed tracking mode (F07.06 = 1) is especially useful for large pumps that may have significant inertia after stopping, providing smooth and safe restart.

3. Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems

In industrial facilities, mines, tunnels, or large commercial buildings, ventilation systems play a key role in maintaining air quality, temperature, and safety. Ventilation stoppage can lead to the accumulation of harmful gases, overheating, or discomfort. Automatic fan restart with Veichi AC310 ensures quick restoration of airflow, maintaining optimal conditions without manual intervention.

4. Woodworking and Metalworking Machines

On some machines where the process is not critically sensitive to short stops (for example, band saws, grinding machines), auto-start can be useful for productivity. After a brief power failure, the machine automatically resumes operation, allowing the operator to continue the process without unnecessary delay. However, strict adherence to safety measures is crucial in these cases, and the operator must be at a safe distance from moving parts.

Advantages of Using the Auto-Start Function

Implementing the automatic restart function on Veichi AC310 frequency converters brings significant benefits to industrial enterprises:

Increased productivity: Minimizing equipment downtime after brief power failures supports continuous production processes.

Reduced operating costs: Eliminating the need for manual intervention to restart equipment reduces staff workload and potential downtime-related expenses.

Equipment protection: The "Speed Tracking Startup" mode (F07.06=1) provides smooth motor starts with kinetic rotation, preventing mechanical shocks, overcurrents, and premature wear.

Enhanced system reliability: Under-voltage suppression features (F10.16, F10.17) allow the system to endure short voltage dips without shutdown, improving overall operational stability.

Autonomous operation: Especially valuable for remote sites or systems running without constant supervision, where manual restart is impractical or impossible.

Possible Risks and How to Minimize Them

Despite numerous advantages, the auto-start function carries certain risks that must be considered and minimized:

Personnel injury risk: Unexpected equipment startup may cause serious injuries.

Mitigation: Mandatory warning signs placement, personnel training, installation of protective guards, use of light/sound alarms before startup.

Equipment damage risk: If equipment is in improper condition or foreign objects are in the working area, automatic start may lead to breakage.

Mitigation: Regular maintenance, inspection of the working area before activating auto-start, use of F07.06=1 mode for smooth start.

Technological process disruption risk: In some sensitive processes, unexpected startup may cause product defects or operational sequence disruption.

Mitigation: Careful evaluation of auto-start suitability for the specific process, possibly integrating with PLC systems for additional control.

Unstable start risk: In very unstable networks, too short waiting time (F07.07) may cause repeated start-stop cycles.

Mitigation: Increasing F07.07 value to ensure network stabilization before starting.

Conclusion

The automatic restart feature on Veichi AC310 frequency converters is a powerful tool to enhance efficiency and reliability of industrial systems. Proper configuration of parameters F07.06, F07.07, as well as optional F10.16 and F10.17, helps minimize equipment downtime and ensures production continuity even after power failures. However, implementing this function requires a responsible approach to safety issues. Always remember potential risks, conduct thorough assessments, train personnel, and place appropriate warning signs. Following these recommendations, you can maximize the benefits of Veichi AC310 to provide stable, efficient, and safe operation of your equipment.