PRODUCTS: Motors and Drivestest

By James Piper, P.E.

November 2016

Bell & Gossett
Technologic variable-frequency drives (VFD) combine two advanced controller functions — the Start-Up Genie and an electronically controlled bypass — that are engineered to reduce on-site setup and configuration time by more than 50 percent across a range of hydronic HVAC system applications. The VFD is compatible with any system and a variety of products. Built-in BACnet, Modbus RTU and Metasys N2 communications protocols simplify integration into existing building management systems.

Baldor Electric Co.
The Large AC-GPM induction motor is available with up to 1,500 horsepower (hp) and in stock ratings of 250-1,000 hp and 2,300/4,000 volts. It features enclosed fan-cooled, foot-mounted designs. Custom motors are available in 250-1,500 hp and fit various applications, including pumps, fans, conveyors and compressors requiring high torque. The product line is suitable for use on variable-frequency drives.

Striatech
The DVR Smart Motor uses up to 50 percent less energy than a conventional AC or DC motor and, as a direct-drive motor, offers 20 percent more power. The motor includes an internal microprocessor with sensors that monitor the motor and environmental conditions to adjust speed and power. It also communicates with human-machine interfaces to tell the operator when it needs attention or maintenance and signals other machines to adjust their behaviors.

Danfoss Drives
The VLT BACnet/IP MCA 125 connects to the HVAC Drive FC 102 to building management systems (BMS) to reduce the number of network components and increase network bandwidth to the BMS controller. Drive features include: subscribe COV, which reduces polling for data from the BMS; alarm and event management that automatically sends alarms without polling; and a trend object option that allows users to trend inside the drive and not tie up the BMS.

ABB
The Internet of Things, Services and People smart sensor helps measure operating and condition parameters, such as vibration and temperature overload, and it calculates power use by motors. Data is analyzed by a software program and presented in the form of graphics for maintenance planning to reduce downtime and extend motor life while also reducing energy consumption.

Kaman Industrial Technologies Corp.
The Trans-Power V-Drive NEMA 4X/IP66 variable-frequency drive features 14 quick-start parameters that are suitable for most applications. The drives are available with an integrated power disconnect for a decentralized mounting solution to help reduce component costs and save space. For greater control and customization, technicians can input 50 parameters manually or via the optional Trans-Power V-STIK, a Bluetooth-compatible device.

Schaffner North America
FN5060 dv/dt filters protect AC motors from the effects of peak voltages and inrush amps to increase service life and system reliability. The filters protect motors and adjacent equipment without capacitors or resistors, and they reduce high output dv/dt from IGBT motor drives and eliminate overvoltages caused by line reflections on motor cables.