When sizing a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD), the most important consideration is to match the size of the VFD to the AC induction motor.  AC induction motors have nameplates that list critical specifications.  Examples of these specifications are Manufacturer, Model Number, Part Number, Serial Number, Design Type, Voltage rating, Horsepower, Hertz, Full Load Amps, RPM,…

Electric motors have been around since the 1800’s creating torque for many applications.  As applications got more sophisticated the need to vary the speed of the motor began to surface.  Enter the Variable Frequency Drive (VFD).  Before we go much further let’s cover the basics of motors to get the foundation of how the VFD…

Usually, when someone goes to start programming automation devices, the software can become overwhelming very quickly. What software do I need? Where is it all located? Siemens has taken a new approach to this problem with their TIA Portal software. Totally Integrated Automation has taken all software and combined them into a powerful tool in one place to make the programmer or person troubleshooting’s life…

When wanting to add a PLC to TIA Portal, there are a few different options to consider.  The version of Step 7 you have, Basic or Professional, determines which PLCs can be added to a project.   Basic will only allow the S7-1200 Family, while Professional will allow the S7-1200, S7-1500, S7-300, S7-400, as well as the ET200SP 1500, and software controllers. …

When working with a Siemens variable frequency drive (VFD), there are a couple of different software options available for those that desire to utilize that technology. All programming can be done from the operator panel on the drive itself as it’s been done since VFD’s hit the industrial market. Let’s evaluate how to commission the drive using Startdrive within TIA Portal.  NOTE: another software that is available is called…

Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) are an electronic control device used to provide adjustable speed control for AC and DC electric motors. The most common AC motor type is an AC induction or Asynchronous motor. The benefits of using a VFD are energy savings for HVAC fan and pump applications, improved motor torque and speed control…

We recently had a customer ask, would their 20-year-old pump motor work on a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD), and would a VFD manufacture guarantee that the VFD would not damage the motor. This can be a tricky conversation to have and too often people move forward without giving it the due diligence that it deserves.…

Throughout the many applications and instances of automated industrial systems, motor control is a hot topic. One particular component that has a prominent role in this space is the variable frequency drive (VFD). There are three basic ways to control motors – an electromechanical starter, a reduced voltage soft-starter, and the VFD. The electromechanical starter…