Frequency Converter Tuning Services
Frequency Converters: Overview and Advantages
Frequency converters are electronic devices used to regulate the operation of synchronous and asynchronous electric motors that operate on alternating current. As a result of the converter's operation, voltage with a specified varying frequency and amplitude is formed at the output.
Scalar and Vector Control
When regulating using the scalar method, a stable ratio between the maximum torque on the shaft and the maximum torque of the motor is ensured. When a frequency converter uses scalar control, the change in frequency is accompanied by a change in voltage amplitude. The nominal power factor and the efficiency of the electric motor remain stable, allowing control over an entire group of electric motors.
Vector control of the frequency converter allows for monitoring the change in torque of the electric motor, which significantly increases the accuracy of speed regulation and the control range.
Classification of Vector Control
Vector control is divided into two types:
- sensor-based vector control;
- sensorless vector control.
Sensor-based control is implemented using a speed sensor (encoder) on the motor, which allows for more precise regulation of the electric motor's rotational speed. In sensorless models, this capability is absent. Vector control also enables significant energy savings, which can range from 30% to 60% of total electricity consumption. Tuning frequency converters with vector control requires deep knowledge from the servicing personnel in the field of electric drives.
Applications of Frequency Converters
The use of frequency converters in conjunction with automation systems significantly enhances the effectiveness of performing the following tasks:
- conveyor control;
- pump control;
- crane operation tuning;
- fan control;
- machine control;
- compressor station management;
- elevator control.
Automation of Technological Processes
To create automatic control systems for technological processes (ACS TP) based on frequency converters, devices with built-in proportional-integral-derivative controllers (PID controllers) are used. Thanks to the presence of this component, the motor speed can be determined by parameters such as speed, flow, pressure, level, temperature, etc., made possible by analog signals from sensors. The built-in PID controller in the frequency converter ensures the automatic operation of the system while maintaining specified parameters.
Parameter Tuning of the Frequency Regulator
During the tuning process, the following parameters are adjusted:
- motor power;
- dynamic and electrical characteristics;
- number of poles;
- distribution of functions among the logical inputs and outputs of the regulator;
- determination of the control signal magnitude;
- turning protective functions on or off;
- tuning the built-in PID controller;
- setting up network monitoring and control of the frequency regulator.
The high qualifications of our personnel and extensive experience in the commissioning and tuning of frequency regulators allow us to efficiently solve technical tasks of any complexity level.