VFD Cables
Variable Frequency Drive cables are used in motor systems and process control systems. These are some of the most common cables in oil and gas facilities. VFD cables used in oil and gas facilities are different from regular cables as they require shielding to be protected from electromagnetic interference.
WHAT IS VARIABLE FREQUENCY DRIVE (VFD) CABLE?
Variable frequency drive cable, also known as variable speed drive cable, is a cable designed specifically for use within a variable frequency drive system where the cable’s workload is constantly increasing and decreasing. The variable speed capabilities of a VFD cable lets the controller adjust the frequency and voltage of the AC motor to control speed and torque. VFD cable can handle rapidly changing frequencies and voltages while containing noise and preventing electrical interference.
WHAT IS VFD CABLE USED FOR?
VFD cable is a critical component in any variable frequency drive system. The VFD cable carries the adjustable frequency current from the VFD controller to the AC motor.
Variable frequency systems can be found in a wide range of applications. Fans, pumps, and compressors are the most common uses of VFD systems where a quality VFD cable is imperative. These apparatuses, in particular, require a cable that can transmit a varying current to control the speed and power at which the machine is operating.
VFD cable is also used in many advanced military types of machinery, such as radar, automated weapons systems, and tracking devices.
The industries that use VFD cable include different types of manufacturing, industrial plants, wastewater facilities, and even data centers.
WHY IS VFD CABLE QUALITY IMPORTANT?
VFD cable is called upon to function under harsh internal and external conditions. This type of cable is used to power vital equipment such as pumps and fans that can be needed to stabilize a residential, commercial, or industrial space. VFD cable needs to handle rapidly changing frequencies and voltages without being overworked.
The devices that commonly employ variable frequency systems are often installed in environments where durability and resistance to corrosion are needed. They’re often located outside, underwater, or even in toxic substances. VFD cable is engineered to be resistant to damage from sunlight, friction, and corrosion from water or oil.
It is also important that a VFD cable is capable of mitigating radiation and noise that is caused by the constantly changing frequencies it carries. The electrical radiation that emanates from a VFD conductor can cause interference with other systems if not contained. VFD cable is insulated and shielded to minimize noise and emissions given off by the conductor at its core.
VFD CABLE CONSTRUCTION
VFD cable conductors are constructed of tinned, stranded copper. The tanning process involves coating the conductors with a thin layer of metal through electrolysis, making them resistant to corrosion and friction. Stranding the conductors provides exceptional flexibility to make them easier to manipulate during installation. The conductor assembly includes a tinned copper ground conductor that is colored green so it can be easily identified.
XLPE cross-linked polyethylene insulation provides crucial support to the conductor’s integrity by separating the conductors from one another to prevent short circuiting. The advanced polymer insulation protects the conductors from damage from sunlight, radiation, and moisture and protects the user from electrical shocks. In addition, the cable has a PVC outer jacket that provides additional protection.
The VFD cable employs braided tinned copper wires that are helically wrapped around the cable and then covered with aluminum tape as shielding. The durable shielding provides additional protection to the conductors to prevent short circuiting and damage caused by friction.
Common temperature ratings of VFD cables are 600V, 1kV, and 2kV.