Schneider VFD ATV930U55N4 Variable Speed Drive 5.5kW Inverter for AC Motor

Schneider Electric ATV930U55N4 Variable Speed Drive: A Comprehensive Overview

The Schneider Electric ATV930U55N4 is a high-performance variable speed drive (VSD) designed for industrial applications requiring precise motor control, energy efficiency, and robust operation. Part of the Altivar Process ATV900 series, this 5.5 kW drive combines advanced technology with user-friendly features, making it suitable for a wide range of industries. Below is a detailed technical and functional breakdown of the ATV930U55N4, including a specifications table and analysis of its key attributes.

Technical Specifications Table

Key Features and Benefits

1. Power and Performance

The ATV930U55N4 delivers 5.5 kW of power, making it ideal for medium-sized industrial motors. Its vector control technology ensures high-precision speed and torque regulation, even under varying loads. This is critical for applications like conveyors, pumps, and fans, where consistent performance is essential.

2. Integrated Braking Unit

The built-in braking chopper eliminates the need for external braking resistors, reducing installation complexity and costs. It enables rapid deceleration of high-inertia loads, such as centrifuges or cranes, by dissipating regenerative energy safely.

3. Advanced Control Modes

• V/F Closed-Loop Control: Suitable for standard applications requiring speed stability.
• Vector Control: Optimized for dynamic applications needing precise torque control (e.g., extruders, mixers).
• Synchronous Motor Support: Compatible with permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM) and synchronous reluctance motors (SynRM), offering energy savings of up to 30% compared to induction motors.

4. Connectivity and Integration

With support for multiple industrial protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, Profibus, etc.), the ATV930U55N4 seamlessly integrates into existing automation systems. Its modular design allows expansion with I/O, encoder, and safety modules, enhancing flexibility.

5. Robust Design

• IP21 Protection: Suitable for indoor environments, protecting against dust (≥12 mm particles) and vertical water droplets.
• Wide Temperature Range: Operates from -10°C to +50°C, adapting to harsh industrial conditions.
• Forced Ventilation: Ensures reliable cooling even in high-ambient-temperature settings.

6. Safety and Compliance

The drive meets global safety standards (SIL 3, STO) and includes features like safe torque off (STO) and safe stop 1 (SS1). It complies with EMC directives (EN/IEC 61800-3) and low-voltage directives, ensuring minimal electrical interference.

Applications

The ATV930U55N4 is versatile across industries:

• Material Handling: Conveyors, cranes, and elevators benefit from its precise speed control and braking capabilities.
• Process Industries: Pumps, compressors, and mixers require reliable torque regulation for consistent output.
• Renewable Energy: Wind turbines and hydroelectric systems use its vector control for optimal energy capture.
• HVAC Systems: Fans and blowers achieve energy savings through variable-speed operation.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

The ATV930U55N4 contributes to reduced energy consumption via:

• Flux Optimization: Adjusts motor magnetization to minimize losses.
• Sleep/Wake Functions: Powers down during idle periods and restarts automatically.
• Harmonic Mitigation: Integrated EMC filters reduce grid distortion, avoiding penalties from utilities.

Installation and Maintenance

• Wall-Mounted Design: Saves space and simplifies wiring.
• User Interface: A detachable control panel with LCD allows local parameter adjustment.
• Diagnostics: Real-time monitoring of currents, voltages, and temperatures prevents unexpected downtime.
• Maintenance: Filter replacement and fan cleaning are required every 2–3 years, depending on operating conditions.

Conclusion

The Schneider Electric ATV930U55N4 is a feature-rich variable speed drive that balances performance, connectivity, and ease of use. Its integrated braking unit, advanced control modes, and compliance with industrial standards make it a reliable choice for demanding applications. By optimizing energy efficiency and reducing maintenance needs, it offers a low total cost of ownership, aligning with Industry 4.0 goals of smart, sustainable manufacturing.