Variable Frequency Drives - Wire-Setup-Troubleshoot VFDs
What you'll learn
- VFD (Inverter Drive) theory of operation, volts per hertz, flux vector, pumps & fan mode applications explained.
- Drive specifications and power requirements.
- VFD and motor installation considerations.
- Inverter duty motors, line and load reactors and braking resistor requirements explained.
- Learn about applications that would benefit from utilizing VFD technology.
- VFD safety considerations and lock out.
- Auto-tuning, motor parameter set up, 2-wire control, 3-wire control, analog speed and multiple digital speeds, jog mode, and drive response to power failure.
- Introduction and use of PC based drive setup software to configure the drive.
- Maintenance, diagnostic and troubleshooting, fault codes and drive monitoring covered.
- Reforming DC bus capacitors after long term storage procedures covered.
Requirements
- Understanding of basic electrical switching components and power supplies.
- Mechanical aptitude and understanding of motor driving systems such as; pumps, fans and conveyors.
- An understanding of motor control terminology (2-wire control, 3-wire control).
- Ability to read an electrical schematic diagram and correctly use an electrical test meter to measure voltage and ring out components.
- Operational knowledge of asynchronous three phase induction motors (squirrel cage motors).
- Awareness of electrical lock-out safety requirements.
- Able to use PC based software programs.
Description
This course covers all aspects of working with modern variable frequency drives (VFDs).
Generic terms that apply to all VFD manufacturers are covered. Wiring, programming and commissioning of different manufacturers are covered. In depth VFD setup is covered using professional drive commissioning software that is included free in the course. The student can follow along and adjust parameters using the software. Also included and demonstrated is VFD simulation software that replicates exactly the front panel buttons of a modern VFD. The student is walked through the steps of setting up a drive and important points learned over the years are covered. Periodic inspection and maintenance of VFDs and electric motors is covered. The tasks involved in maintaining and troubleshooting equipment are covered.
Other important information covered in the course include:
Working safely with VFDs and the hazards associated with VFD commissioning
VFD power and control wiring
Line, load and DC link reactors
The DC bus
Sink & source wiring
VFD digital and analog inputs and outputs
VFD motor braking
Inverter rated motors
Motor turn down ratios
Basic VFD theory of operation
Basic Motor theory of operation
Constant torque and variable torque modes
Volts per hertz ratios
Pump & fan applications
Auto-tuning
VFD wiring schematics are explained and demonstrated with design software
2-wire control transition and run at power up
3- wire control with forward and reverse
Who this course is for:
- Electrical Technicians, Electrical Apprentices, Electricians, Maintenance Techs, Electrical Beginners & Hobbyists.
Instructor
![Norman Burton](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 64 64"%3E%3C/svg%3E){kind=avatar}
- 4.5 Instructor Rating
- 162 Reviews
- 951 Students
- 2 Courses
Education:
My educational background is very trades centric. I started a high school co-op in the early eighties and spent six years obtaining an Automotive Machinists’ licence. I then started an Electrical Construction and Maintenance apprenticeship. I successfully completed the academic portion of the apprenticeship at Durham College and became a C+M Inter-provincial licensed Electrician in 1998. During working as an Electrician, I have completed numerous continuous learning programs such as; Arc Welding, PLC programming, Automation Technology, Teaching and Training Adults and a Masters Electrician Course. I became a licensed Master Electrician in 2007.
Professional Experience:
Working in the trades has been exciting. I have worked in the construction, industrial and institutional sector. I have also spent considerable time working in the automation and controls sector. In 2007 I started an electrical business (Burton Electro technical Inc.). The business focus is primarily industrial controls, installations and troubleshooting. The business also builds electrical training equipment for learning institutions and private companies. Burton Electro Technical Inc. has customers throughout Canada and the United Sates. In addition to working in the Electrical industry I have been instructing part time since 2005 at Georgian College in the Electrical Apprenticeship program.
While working in the Electrical Industry, I have travelled to the United States, Mexico, Japan, throughout Central Ontario and British Columbia.
Current Endeavours
I am instructing electrical apprenticeship programs part time at the Georgian College Skilled Trades center in Midland, ON. I am also operating Burton Electro Technical Inc.
Personal Interests
I enjoy hiking, kayaking, travelling and spending as much time outdoors as possible. I also enjoy strumming my guitar and playing music with my wife and others when we can find the time!