Top 5 Inverter Drives for Fan and Blower Applications in 2025
Fans and blowers are classic variable-torque loads, so trimming speed with a VFD can slash energy use, reduce noise, and extend belt/bearing life. Below are five proven drives we recommend for HVAC supply/return fans, AHUs, extract systems, and process blowers — each with fast access to specs and UK stock.
Handy tools: VFD Sizing Calculator • VFD Cable Sizing Calculator • Braking Resistor Calculator • Motor Starter Selection Calculator
1) Danfoss VLT® Micro Drive FC-051 – 132F0005
Why it’s great for fans/blowers:
- 💨 Dedicated fan/pump macros for quick setup and smooth ramps
- ⚡ Excellent part-load efficiency for variable-air-volume (VAV) systems
- 🧲 Built-in RFI filter helps keep BMS/controls quiet (EMC)
- 🧩 Compact footprint — easy AHU panel retrofits
Best fit: Small/medium AHUs, booster fans, FCUs where budget and size matter.
2) Allen Bradley PowerFlex 525 – 25B-D017N114
Why it’s great for fans/blowers:
- 🔗 Seamless EtherNet/IP with Logix PLCs; fast commissioning via AOIs
- 🌀 Sensorless vector for stable low-speed airflow control
- 🧯 Safe Torque Off (STO) for machine safety integration
- 🧭 Sleep/wake and energy-save functions for VAV duty cycles
Best fit: Packaging halls and factories standardised on Rockwell/Logix.
3) ABB ACS355 – ACS355-03E-06A7-2
Why it’s great for fans/blowers:
- 🏗 Robust build and proven reliability in dusty plantrooms
- 🧰 Simple parameter sets and autotune for quick fan startups
- 🔌 Broad I/O and fieldbus options for BMS/PLC links
- 🕒 Excellent ramp control to cut belt shock and acoustic spikes
Best fit: Industrial AHUs, extract fans, quarry/process ventilation lines.
4) Schneider Electric Altivar Process – ATV630C13N4
Why it’s great for fans/blowers:
- 🧠 Built-in pump/fan functions with PID and energy tallying
- 🌐 Easy BMS integration (Modbus, Ethernet options) and diagnostics
- 🛡 Conformal coating options; strong EMC for building services
- 🚿 Higher IP variants available for harsher plant areas
Best fit: Commercial HVAC, water/air handling where analytics + integration matter.
5) Delta VFD-E Series – VFD022E21A
Why it’s great for fans/blowers:
- 💡 Cost-effective VAV/VSD control with solid low-speed stability
- 🔧 Flexible I/O and simple PID for duct static pressure control
- 📦 Compact, reliable, and easy to retrofit into existing AHUs
- 🔒 Practical choice for multi-fan projects on tight budgets
Best fit: Budget-sensitive retrofits across small/medium fans and blowers.
How to Choose the Right Drive for Your Fan/Blower
- Load profile: Fans are variable-torque — enable fan/pump macros and PID for pressure/flow.
- Integration: Pick native comms for your BMS/PLC (BACnet, Modbus, EtherNet/IP).
- Environment: Check ambient temp, dust, humidity; consider IP/filters if required.
- Cabling/EMC: Use shielded motor cable and 360° earth. Size conductors properly.
- Sizing headroom: Allow margin for duct pressure spikes and startup inertia.
Pro tip: Size and verify in minutes with our tools — VFD Sizing, Cable Sizing, Braking Resistor.
Quick Comparison (Fan & Blower Duty)
| Model | Key Strengths | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Danfoss FC-051 (132F0005) | HVAC-focused macros, EMC filter, compact | Small/medium AHUs, FCUs, booster fans |
| Allen Bradley PF525 (25B-D017N114) | EtherNet/IP, diagnostics, STO | Factory HVAC, packaging/extract fans |
| ABB ACS355-03E-06A7-2 | Rugged build, easy setup, broad comms | Industrial AHUs, process ventilation |
| Schneider ATV630C13N4 | PID, analytics, BMS-friendly | Commercial HVAC, water/air handling |
| Delta VFD022E21A | Value, stable low-speed, compact | Budget retrofits, small/medium fans |
Next Steps
Start with motor data and duct static pressure targets, then:
- Run the VFD Sizing Calculator to choose a rating with headroom.
- Verify runs with the Cable Sizing Calculator (EMC-friendly cable + 360° terminations).
- If rapid decel is required (fire mode tests, purge), use the Braking Resistor Calculator.
Need advice? Our team can help you pick the ideal drive for your AHU or process fan and confirm compatibility with your BMS/PLC.
At Drive Outlet Megastore, we stock genuine Danfoss, Allen Bradley, ABB, Schneider, and Delta drives with fast UK delivery and great pricing. Contact us for a same-day quote.
