How do I choose an ABB drive
Compare and choose the ideal ABB drive based on your needs, including size, capacity, and complexity.
Selecting the right ABB drive for your application goes beyond obtaining basic product information. Critical elements should be considered to ensure the drive performs optimally and efficiently. Here is a step-by-step guide for selecting an ABB drive.
Understand Your Application
Understand the nuance of your specific application. The type of machinery or process, load characteristics, and the level of control that you desire, are all important.
Power and Voltage
Know the power and voltage ratings required. Depending on your application, the power capacity of the drive needed will vary. ABB offers drives that range in power capacity and it is important that the power is matched to your system voltage.
Viscous load characteristics such as fans, pumps. In the case where high inertia is present be sure to account for power requirement or power de-rating. This also applies when feeding long cables or when back channel cooling is needed.
Motor Type
ABB drives are designed for a variety of motor types. These include induction motor and permanent magnet motors. It is important to make sure that the drive is compatible with the type of motor that is going to be used.
Control Options
Control options range from basic open loop control to advanced closed loop control. Depending on the type of machinery or process this could range from very basic to extremely sophisticated depending on the need for precision and feedback from the application.
Application Specific Features
ABB drives include specific features designed to optimize performance for certain applications. These drives could be specifically designed for things such as water pumping, material handling, HVAC or other spindle applications.
Environmental Factors
For harsh environments with conditions such as extreme temperatures or high humidity an ABB drive with a robust environmental rating should be selected. These drives are designed to withstand challenging conditions ensuring longer life and greater durability.
Communications and Integration
The drive chosen should be able to communicate with the control system currently in place or the control system planned for the future. ABB drives have a number of different communications options making it easy to integrate into any control network or system.
Energy Efficiency
ABB drives have gained notoriety for their energy saving capabilities. These energy saving features include Variable speed control to help reduce energy consumption which can have a dramatic effect on total energy cost.
What’s Your Budget
When looking for the right ABB product for your application it is important to take into account your budget and what is the most beneficial to you. ABB drives can be found at varying levels and with different features to match your budget.
Can I Expand or Upgrade in the Future
Can you expand or upgrade your drive in the future if you decide to? This is critical to ensure your investment is and will be functional as your application evolves.
Support and Resources
ABB has a wealth of support and resources for a successful drive selection. ABB has a number of manuals and online tools to assist in selecting the best drive for your application. Of course if you need further assistance, ABB representatives could prove to be a valuable asset.
