Choosing and Installing a Frequency Converter
At the stage of selecting the appropriate model of a frequency converter, a potential buyer faces various difficulties. The dilemma between price and quality, the choice of manufacturer, considerations of dimensions, power, and other essential characteristics—all of this causes serious reflection even among experienced users. When the converter is selected, delivered to the installation site, and unpacked, the new owner may think that everything will be simple and problem-free. This is certainly true, but successful operation will also require some knowledge, ingenuity, and time.
Problems During Installation and Setup
All the problems that arise during the installation and setup of an electric drive with frequency control cannot be covered in a brief overview, but it will be useful to mention the most common issues. For most situations, it is sufficient to follow a few basic recommendations, and careful reading of the instructions will help achieve reliable and effective operation of both the motor and the converter.
Main Causes of Failures
The most important thing is to ensure the proper installation of the entire electrical circuit. Here are a few reasons for the most common failures and breakdowns:
- The choice of wires and cables with the wrong cross-section or damaged insulation.
- Unreliable connections of plug and non-plug contacts, mismatch of terminals, insufficient diligence during connection.
- Installation of the motor or converter in a location where they are subjected to mechanical, chemical, or electrical influences.
It’s better to check the correctness of the installation again during setup than to look for the cause of a failure later.
First Power-Up of the Converter
After ensuring that all wires and contacts are connected correctly and adequately insulated, do not rush to apply the power voltage. Practice shows that about nine out of ten converter outputs fail during the first power-up, and most manufacturers do not provide guarantees for such cases.
At this stage, review the section of the instructions regarding the first power-up of the converter again. Ensure that all parameters of the motor, converter, and other components of the electrical circuit are compatible with each other, and also check for protection against short circuits, increased humidity, shocks, and vibrations.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
In haste or inattentiveness, the installer may confuse the input and output terminals, leading to significant consequences. Such mistakes often have serious ramifications.
Equally important is to avoid applying power voltage (220 or 380 V) to the information contacts—for example, to inputs from sensors or interface contacts intended for remote control.
Final Recommendations
Try to adhere to the principle of "check seven times, turn on once." This will help avoid costly troubles. We hope that the recommendations provided will assist everyone connecting a frequency converter in achieving its long-lasting and effective operation.