Use of variable frequency drives for extruder application

Abstract

This paper describes a case study of replacing an eddy current clutch (ECC) with a modern medium voltage variable frequency drive (VFD) for 2250 HP extruder application. It covers key issues, justification, factory and field measurements of torque-speed profile through 0.5-60 Hz as well as power quality analysis. The paper reviews manufacturers' capability to build medium voltage VFDs that produce very high and stable torque at very low speed.