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Hitting the power quality “bull’s eye”

30Mar

For experienced electrical engineers, warning signs that things aren’t running smoothly can be fairly obvious. What’s sometimes less clear is choosing the best solution, particularly in more complex scenarios where devices like variable speed drives (VSDs) are used. Here, Steve Hughes, Managing Director of REO UK, explores some electrical weak points that can be found on almost any production line.

Power drive system (PDS) alternating or direct current (AC or DC) motor speed control units are usually referred to as variable speed drives (VSDs) or adjustable speed drives (ASDs). Whatever the preferred name, problems of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) must be overcome when these devices are used in critical industrial applications.

EN 61800-3 is the industry standard for the installation and use of PDSs, whether AC or DC, and covers the use of drives within basic drive modules (BMDs). This standard covers numerous factors, including the limits for conducted emissions in electrical equipment. To ensure compliance with this standard, it’s important to minimise electrical noise in drive systems.

Read the full article in the April issue of PBSI