On pumps, fans and compressors, a VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) panel is often the biggest single energy saver available — because of how centrifugal loads behave.
The affinity laws
For a centrifugal pump or fan, flow is proportional to speed, but power is proportional to the cube of speed. Running at 80% speed instead of throttling at full speed can cut power to roughly half. That cubic relationship is where the savings come from.
Beyond energy
- Soft starting — no mechanical or electrical shock at start-up.
- Process control — hold pressure, flow or temperature precisely.
- Longer equipment life — less stress on motors, belts and couplings.
What a VFD panel contains
The drive sized to the motor, protection, control interface, and — where the supply or cable runs demand it — input/output filtering and bypass arrangements.
Tell NIXCO your motor rating, duty and application and we'll specify a suitable drive and build the panel.