1 Answer. Show activity on this post. by code you would need to use the book value 3 phase 15.2 amps that x 1.732 = 26.32 and the book value for a 5 Hp 230v single phase is 28 amps so those work out close by the time you add some for the vfd. So yes it can be done.

How do I choose a VFD size?

Sizing of a VFD is based on the rating of the VFD and the motor load. When the VFD is rated in horsepower (or in horsepower and output current), the VFD must be sized to be greater than or equal to the horsepower rating of the motor (or motors).

Can I use 3HP VFD in 5hp motor?





You have understood the issue just fine. A 3Hp VFD will provide power up to 3 HP. They are current limited. Your 5HP motors have a slightly higher internal loss than a 3HP motor at the same output, but I don’t believe you would notice.

How do you select a VFD rating for a motor?

The most important consideration when choosing a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) is to know the type of load that is being applied to the motor because it will determine the size and cost of the VFD. The VFD must have sufficient current capability so that the motor can produce the required torque for the load.

How is VFD rating calculated?

Multiply the motor FLA by two and select a VFD rated for twice the motor’s FLA. For example, if you have a 10 HP motor with a FLA of 28 amps, you’ll need a VFD rated more than 56 amps and around 20 HP.

Should I oversize VFD?

Your application may require that you oversize the VFD to meet peak torque demands from the load. Even if your VFD has been sized to appropriately for the motor’s FLA, it might not be sufficient for motors built specifically for short high torque/current applications.

How do I know if my engine is VFD compatible?





Three major factors should be considered when determining if a motor is compatible with a VFD: the motor winding insulation, motor bearings and pump operating speed range.

Can you use a bigger VFD for a smaller motor?

An oversized VFD can be used for a smaller HP motor. The advantage of this application is that if the motor requirements increase, the VFD may be large enough to still handle the increased load.

Can you use a bigger VFD than the motor?

YES. In most cases a drive can control a motor with lower HP (and current) rating. The motor nameplate information will have to be entered correctly to ensure proper control of the motor and that the overload protection is enabled.

Can you use a VFD on any motor?

Summary. While we’ve solved the single-speed problem of AC induction motors by introducing the variable frequency drive, not all motors are VFD compatible. Some motors are specifically designed to run on VFD power, while others need a few components added to the system to be compatible.

When selecting a VFD Which of the following should be considered?



1. Environment. The environment in which the motor and power conversion equipment operates is of prime concern. Conditions such as ambient temperature, cooling air supply and the presence of gas, moisture and dust should all be considered when choosing a drive, its enclosures and protective features.

What is VFD power ratio?

Voltage and frequency ratio remains constant from 0 – 60 Hertz. For a 460 motor this ratio is 7.6 volts/Hz. To calculate this ratio divide the motor voltage by 60 Hz. At low frequencies the voltage will be low, as the frequency increases the voltage will increase.

What is VFD compatible motor?

A VFD is a type of controller used to vary the speed of an electric motor. The VFD takes a fixed AC voltage and frequency and allows it to be adjusted in order to get different speeds from the motor. Motor speed can be varied by changing the frequency of the input power waveform.

What is VFD rating?



VFDs have a 100% voltage rating of 200, 230, 460 or 575 Volts. Each site has different high and low line levels that the VFD must be able to safely operate at without being damaged.

Can you oversize a motor?

If the motor is undersized or too small, it will not handle load. If the motor is oversized or too large, the motor will be too expensive in terms of purchase point and operation.

How do you protect a VFD?

Top 10 ways to protect your VFD investment

  1. Know your application. …
  2. Engineer the system properly. …
  3. Evaluate at your environment. …
  4. Select the correct motor. …
  5. Specify the correct fusing, cabling, and filters. …
  6. Use trained and qualified professionals to install the equipment, especially in harsh environments.

Does VFD HP need to match motor HP?

YES. In most cases a drive can control a motor with lower HP (and current) rating. The motor nameplate information will have to be entered correctly to ensure proper control of the motor and that the overload protection is enabled.

How do you size a motor?



Use this formula to estimate motor horsepower: Horsepower (hp) = Voltage x Amerage x % EFF x power factor x 1.73/746.

How do you calculate VFD savings?

Divide the total capital expense by the “total” energy savings you get for a calendar year. If the result is below 3.0, chances are excellent that the change is not cost-effective from the user viewpoint. In some instances, the limit is more like 1.5 (e.g. 18 months to recover the complete capital investment).

How do you hook up a 3 phase VFD?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: So now we have our different legs and it doesn't matter which color you use here as long as the important thing is line one goes to you on your VFD line two goes to V on the VFD and line 3 goes to W.

Can a VFD be used on any 3 phase motor?

Yes, a VFD can power a three-phase motor with a single-phase input power supply, but phase conversion introduces many considerations that normally don’t factor in to buying a VFD.

Can you run a 3 phase motor without a VFD?



VFDs and Single Phase Input



It is not necessary to have 3 phase electrical input in order to operate a 3 phase motor with a VFD. The electronics of the VFD will step up single phase current during the conversion process.

Can you use a single-phase VFD on a 3 phase motor?

The question is usually, “Can I put a VFD on a single phase input feed and still run a three phase motor?” The simple answer is yes.

Can I put a VFD on any motor?

Summary. While we’ve solved the single-speed problem of AC induction motors by introducing the variable frequency drive, not all motors are VFD compatible. Some motors are specifically designed to run on VFD power, while others need a few components added to the system to be compatible.

Can you control a single-phase motor with a VFD?

People often wanted to run the motors at reduced speeds so they asked, “Is it possible to add a VFD to my single phase motor?” In general, single-phase motors cannot be run with VFDs. However, it is possible to input a single-phase to a VFD and output variable voltage to a 3-phase induction motor.