Calculating Benefits of VFD Performance

The performance of variable-frequency drives (VFDs) can be compared with that of other methods of volume control quickly and simply. All that you need are:

• Motor horsepower;

• The alternative to VFD control (inlet guide vane, outlet damper, “ride the fan curve,” bypass damper, discharge valve, bypass valve, no control);

• The total hours of operation per year (8,760 maximum);

• The cost per kilowatt-hour of electricity.

NOTE

1) This is only an estimate based on averages and assumptions. Additional savings, such as power-factor improvement to 0.98 and reduced demand charges, also should be considered.

Yaskawa Electric America Inc., headquartered in Waukegan, IL, is a manufacturer of HVAC variable-frequency drives and configured packages.