The Differences between the Vector-specific and General-purpose VFD

Vector-specific and general-purpose are two types of frequency inverters. Although they can both control the voltage and frequency of the motor, there are some differences in their functions, performance and scope of application.

1. Definition and overview

A vector-specific frequency inverter is the product designed specifically for driving induction motors. Induction motors are a type of motor widely used in industry. Vector-specific frequency inverters can achieve vector control of induction motors, thereby providing more precise and stable motor control. General-purpose are frequency inverters that can be applied to a variety of motor types.

2. Control method

A vector-specific frequency inverter adopts vector control, which can monitor the motor's current, flux, rotor position and other parameters in real time, and achieve precise control of the motor through calculation and control. This control method can provide higher dynamic response and better torque response. General-purpose frequency inverters usually adopt open-loop or simple closed-loop control methods, and the control effect is relatively weak.

3. Response time

A vector-specific frequency inverter has a faster response time. Since vector control can monitor and calculate motor parameters in real time, it can control the motor's speed and torque more accurately. Therefore, the vector-specific frequency inverter can respond to control instructions faster and make the motor reach the required speed and torque in a short time. In contrast, the general-purpose frequency inverter has a slower response time and cannot provide the same high dynamic response capability.

4. Scope of application

The vector-specific frequency inverter is suitable for application scenarios with high requirements for motor performance, such as mechanical equipment, injection molding machinery, cutting machinery, etc. that require high-speed and precise control. These scenarios have higher precision requirements for the motor's speed, position and torque. General-purpose frequency inverters are suitable for application scenarios with less stringent requirements for motor performance, such as ventilation equipment, water pumps, fans, etc. These devices have relatively low requirements for speed and position.

5. Performance advantages

The vector-specific frequency inverter has obvious advantages in performance. It can achieve high-precision control of the motor, provide a better speed adjustment range and response speed, and have higher torque output capacity. These advantages make the vector-specific frequency inverter perform well in some applications with high requirements for motor performance. The general-purpose frequency inverter is not as good as the vector-specific frequency inverter in these aspects, but it is relatively cheaper and easier to use.

6. Price and stability

The price of vector-specific frequency inverters is generally higher than that of general-purpose inverters, because vector control technology requires more advanced circuits and algorithms, which increases the R&D and production costs of the product. However, since vector-specific inverters can provide higher performance and more precise control, in some applications with higher requirements for motors, users are more willing to pay extra for better performance and stability.

In summary, there are some differences between vector-specific frequency inverters and general-purpose frequency inverters in terms of control methods, response time, scope of application, performance advantages, price and stability. Vector-specific frequency inverters provide higher performance and more precise control, and are suitable for application scenarios with higher requirements for motor performance. General-purpose frequency inverters are suitable for applications with less stringent requirements for motor performance.