Soft Starter Vs VFD
Soft Starter Vs VFD
Soft Starter Vs VFD
speed. Soft starters and variable frequency drives can both be used to reduce
inrush currents and limit torque protecting your valuable equipment and
extending the life of your motor by reducing motor heating caused by frequent
starts and stops.
When accelerating an AC motor to full speed using a full voltage connection, a large
inrush current may be required. Additionally, the torque of the AC motor is mostly
uncontrolled and can shock the connected equipment, potentially causing damage.
Variable Frequency Drives and Reduced Voltage Soft Starters can both be
used to reduce inrush currents and limit torque; thereby protecting
expensive equipment and extending the life of the motor and coupling
devices.
Soft starters
A reduced voltage soft starter helps protect the motor and connected
equipment from damage by controlling the terminal voltage. This limits the
initial inrush of current and reduces the mechanical shock associated with motor
startup and provides a more gradual ramp up to full speed. By gradually increasing
the motor terminal voltage the soft starter produces a more regulated motor
acceleration up to full speed.
Soft starters are used in applications where:
Speed ramping and torque control are desired when starting or stopping
High inrush currents associated with starting a large motor need to be limited to
avoid supply network issues or penalty charges
A gradual controlled starting is needed to avoid torque spikes and tension in the
mechanical system associated with normal equipment startup (e.g., conveyors, beltdriven systems, gears, couplings, etc.)
Avoiding pressure surges or hammering in piping systems when fluid changes
speed too rapidly.