Hot Control Engineering motors and drives articles in 2023

The most-viewed articles about motors and drives posted over the last year include frequently-neglected VFD parameters, getting the most from a VFD and more.

By Chris Vavra January 11, 2024
Figure 1: Proper torquing of power wiring done by a certified installer is one of the steps that help the drive's lifespan and increase VFD return on investment. Courtesy: Yaskawa America

Control Engineering top 5 articles online about motors and drives posted over the last year covered frequently-neglected VFD parameters, getting the most from a VFD, motor control maintenance and more. Also: See additional motor and drive stories here.

1. Eight frequently-neglected VFD parameters to optimize

Recognizing variable frequency drives (VFD) parameters such as thermal current, pulse-width modulation and more can help engineers get better performance for many different applications.

2. Beyond the purchase: How to get the most from your variable frequency drive

For machine control and other applications, controlling motor speed with variable frequency drives can save energy, but it’s not as easy as just adding a VFD. What else needs to be considered for motor control system efficiency?

3. Motor control maintenance and troubleshooting best practices, advice

Electric motors are used to drive actuators and machines in industry and there are many aspects to consider to keep them operating efficiently.

4. How to optimize industrial motor communications, Part 1, data types

Three thought leaders offer advice on improving industrial motor communications and how better motor communications can help engineers, in this transcript from an August 2022 webcast. Part 1 includes motor-drive communication information discussions from EtherCAT Technology Group, ODVA and PI North America. Link to other parts.

5. How to create greater VFD efficiencies, reduce carbon emissions

There are several key drivers for the adoption of variable frequency drives (VFDs) and sustainability is a major one.


Author Bio: Chris Vavra is senior editor for WTWH Media LLC.