VFD - A Solution To Energy Crisis

VFD converts a basic fixed-frequency, fixed voltage sine-wave power (line power) to a variable-
frequency, variable-voltage output used to control speed of induction motors.
The ratio of voltage vs frequency (v/f) can be controlled to match variable and constant
torque or load curve , Hence controlling speed and efficiency of motor.












Why we required VFD ?
To save money by reducing overall energy being consumed. i.e. By controlling speed of a
pump rather than controlling flow through use of throttling valves, energy savings can be substantial.
A speed reduction of 20% can yield energy savings of 50%.
System soft starter i.e It can reduce average 20 times inrush current during start up.
To control process temperature, pressure or flow without use of a separate controller.
Sensors are used to interface driven equipment with VFD.
Maintenance costs can be lowered, since lower operating speeds result in longer life for
bearings and motors.
Controlled ramp-up speed in a liquid system can eliminate water hammer problems.
To limit torque to a user-selected level can protect driven equipment that cannot tolerate
excessive torque.
VFD Working Principle
The number of poles and the frequency applied to the motor , determine the motor
speed This formula includes an effect called "slip."
Slip is the difference between the rotor speed and the rotating magnetic field in the stator.
When a magnetic field passes through the conductors of the rotor, the rotor takes on
magnetic fields of its own. These rotor magnetic fields will try to catch up to the rotating fields of
the stator. However, it never does -- this difference is slip.
Motor Slip:

Shaft Speed =
120 X F
P

Slip = 3 to 5% of Base Speed which is 1500 RPM at Full Load

F = Frequency applied to the motor
P = Number of motor poles


We can conveniently adjust the speed of a motor by changing the frequency applied to the
motor.
Adjust motor speed by adjusting the number of poles, but this is a physical change to the
motor. It would require rewinding, and result in a step change to the speed. So, for convenience,
cost-efficiency, and precision, we change the frequency.
The torque-developing characteristic of motor is shown below : the Volts per Hertz ratio
(V/Hz). We change this ratio to change motor torque.
An induction motor connected to a 440V, 50 Hz source has a ratio of 8.8.As long
as this ratio stays in proportion, the motor will develop rated torque. A drive provides many different
frequency outputs. At any given frequency output of the drive, you get a new torque curve.



APPLICATION
Dahanu Thermal Power Station (DTPS)
Reliance Energy Ltd.s single largest power generating facility. It is a 500 MW (2 X 250 MW) coal
based thermal power station.


SEAL AIR FAN
This is to provide sealing to coal mill.
There are six coal mill and each has two seal air fan.
Largest LT auxiliary power consuming in whole plant i.e.
120 kw. Total powerconsumption is 4x120 kw = 480 kw


Measurement Of Parameter




References
http://www.emt-india.net/Presentations2009/3L_2009May14-
15_PowerPlant/Day2/01-VFD-PiyushkumarPandya.pdf
http://www.aucom.com/vfd-specifications.html
http://www.joliettech.com/what_is_a_variable_frequency_drive.htm
http://www.yantraharvest.com/images/Case%20Study_CEP.pdf