60hz motor on 50 Hz service with VFD

[bobegler]

If I use a 380 volt 50Hz rated Variable Frequency Drive will I be able to set it up to run a 480 volt 60Hz motor? I have several motors I want to send to one of our plants in Europe but I need to maintain the speed ratings of the motors.

 

[virtuality]

Based on my experience, its not simply possible. Naturally VFD with 50Hz rating, will vary the speed of the motor from 0-50Hz. when you are going to use it for 60Hz, perhaps, you can vary the speed from 0-50Hz only and not upto 60Hz.
If the above informations is not adequate, you better contact ABB or Schneider Electric , who are specialised in this field

 

[RajT]

The 60hz should not be a problem but the 480V output could be depending on the limit of the DC link voltage integral to the VSD.
As per previous you should contact the VSD supplier for confirmation.

 

[electricpete]

As was said you can't do it without derating.

I would think that you should be able to set up the drive as if it were a 50hz 380v motor with 5/6 of it's actual horsepower rating. Take a look at low-speed cooling limits as well.

 

[bigamp]

I guess it all depends on the make of VSD used.

Typically, a VSD intended for 380V 50 Hz will produce an output voltage greater than 380V. It will however be able to produce an output of 60Hz so you will be able to run the motor in "overspeed" as far as the VSD is concerned (i.e. speeds greater than 50Hz) but the motor will have a constant power characteristic and the amount of torque it can produce reduces with speed.

These days, many motor manufacturers are able to supply motors that have 480V/60Hz and 380V/50Hz ratings so I do not think you will really have a problem if you make the motor supplier fully aware of your requirements.

If you post this question on the electric motors & control forum, a specialist in this sort of thing (like Marke) will be able to give an answer.

Regards

 

[jbartos]

Suggestion: Visit

http://www.thomasregister.com

and type Drives: Variable Frequency under Product or Service, which will return 73 Companies to inquire about your application.