How To Choose The Right Inverter Drive For Your Application
Choosing the correct inverter drive (also known as a variable frequency drive or VFD) is essential to ensure optimal performance, energy efficiency, and equipment protection in industrial applications. Whether you’re controlling a pump, conveyor, fan, or motor, the right drive can dramatically reduce wear and save energy.
In this guide, we break down the key factors to consider and how to get it right the first time — plus offer a free tool to make sizing easy.
⚙️ What Is An Inverter Drive?
An inverter drive controls the speed, torque, and direction of an AC motor by varying the frequency and voltage of the electrical supply. It enables smoother start-up, precise speed control, and reduced energy consumption — making it a cornerstone of modern automation.
🧠 Step-By-Step: How To Select The Right Inverter Drive
1. Know Your Motor Specs
Start by confirming the motor’s:
- Voltage (e.g. 230V or 400V)
- Phase type (single or three-phase)
- Rated current (Amps)
- Frequency (typically 50Hz in the UK)
- Power (kW or HP)
🛠 Pro Tip: Always match or exceed the drive’s output rating to the motor’s full load amps (FLA).
2. Define Your Application Type
Is it a constant torque (e.g. conveyor) or variable torque (e.g. fan or pump) application?
- Constant Torque needs higher torque at low speeds → Use drives like Allen Bradley PowerFlex 523 or ABB ACS355
- Variable Torque is lighter on start-up and more energy efficient → Consider Siemens G120 or Danfoss FC 202
3. Control Requirements
Decide between:
- Basic start/stop and speed control
- Advanced PLC integration, analog input/output, or network protocols (e.g. Modbus, EtherNet/IP)
✅ Advanced control? Look at Omron MX2, PowerFlex 525, or ABB ACS880.
4. Environment & Enclosure Rating
Is your VFD going inside a cabinet or exposed to dust, water, or heat?
- IP20: Basic protection (cabinet-mounted)
- IP55/IP66: Dust/water resistant for harsh environments
🌧 For outdoor or washdown use, check out Danfoss VLT IP66 drives.
5. Mounting & Space Constraints
Check physical space, cooling clearance, and mounting options (DIN rail, panel, wall).
📐 We provide dimension drawings for all VFDs – check each product listing for spec sheets.
🔍 Not Sure What Size You Need?
Use our Free Inverter Drive Sizing Calculator to instantly match a VFD to your motor and application:
👉 Launch Sizing Calculator
(No sign-up required – instant results with part suggestions)
🛒 Recommended Inverter Drives By Application
| Application | Recommended Drive Models |
|---|---|
| Pumps / Fans | Danfoss FC 202, Siemens G120 |
| Conveyors | Allen Bradley PowerFlex 523, ABB ACS355 |
| Mixers / Agitators | Omron MX2, PowerFlex 525 |
| General Purpose | ABB ACS510, SEW Eurodrive MOVITRAC B |
🔗 Browse our full range:
✅ Final Checklist Before You Buy
- [ ] Confirm motor specs (kW, volts, amps, phase)
- [ ] Define torque/load type
- [ ] Decide on control features
- [ ] Choose correct IP rating
- [ ] Use our calculator to double-check
Still unsure? Contact our team — we’ll recommend a drive in under 1 hour.
📈 Start Saving With The Right Drive Today
Choosing the correct inverter drive not only extends motor life but also cuts energy costs and improves process control. With expert help, brand-name drives, and a free inverter sizing calculator, Drive Outlet Megastore makes it easy.
