How do variable-speed drives improve productivity?

Variable-speed drives (VSDs) are well known for reducing the energy consumption of electric motor-driven applications. Power usage in pumps, fans and conveyors can be halved simply by reducing motor speed by 20 percent, while the initial cost of a VSD can be recouped in energy savings within as little as six months.

Energy saving is a major advantage of a VSD, and our clients have enjoyed significant reductions in their electricity bills since installing them. However, one of the lesser-known benefits of these clever devices is the potential to significantly improve productivity. Here’s how they do it.

•          Extensive parameter set enables flexible, tailored programming
•          Motor and load fault detection prevents downtime by alerting operator to  problems
•         Soft starting avoids mechanical shock, reducing maintenance
•         Catching loads already rotating (such as fans) reduces electrical and mechanical stress
•         Power loss ride-through keeps process operational should incoming supply be interrupted

While energy saving will always be an important issue in the manufacturing sector, productivity should never be neglected. As an Authorized Value Provider for ABB drives, we know that productivity is among our clients’ top priorities and we’re always on hand to recommend the ideal drive to fully optimise their application.

Discover more about how variable-speed drives can improve the productivity of your application by calling Drives Manager Alan Roberts on 07966468430 or email alan@gibbonsgroup.co.uk.