Maximizing Motor Efficiency: Navigating the Impact of VFDs on Motors
Running a motor directly from the power source produces uniform, sinusoidal waveforms but wastes energy due to continuous speed operation regardless of the load requirements. To enhance efficiency, variable frequency drives (VFDs) control motor speed, reduce energy consumption, and minimize equipment wear. However, VFDs use pulse-width modulation (PWM) to supply electrical pulses instead of a true voltage waveform, generating harmful harmonics that can damage motors, cables, and bearings.