{"id":6923,"date":"2018-09-26T15:22:39","date_gmt":"2018-09-26T15:22:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kele.com\/content\/?p=6923"},"modified":"2018-09-28T15:11:12","modified_gmt":"2018-09-28T15:11:12","slug":"should-you-add-a-bypass-to-your-vfd","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kele.com\/content\/blog\/should-you-use-a-bypass-to-your-vfd","title":{"rendered":"Should you add a bypass to your VFD?"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Sponsored by Honeywell<\/strong><\/p>\n

The steps and considerations for selecting a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) are mostly straightforward. In fact, the nameplate on the motor usually provides the essential information, such as voltage and horsepower. Once you determine whether it will be installed indoors or outdoors, and if it needs communication, you\u2019re almost done!<\/p>\n

The final question is often the most misunderstood: Is a bypass needed? Why or why not? Let\u2019s look at when you should include a bypass and the different types of bypasses available.<\/p>\n

Kele offers five configuration options of the Honeywell Smart VFD<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Option 1<\/strong> is the drive only without any disconnect or bypass<\/strong>. The most common is Option 2<\/strong>, which includes a fused disconnect<\/strong>. These disconnects are required by most electrical codes and a good idea in general. If your electrician does not add a disconnect during installation, you can order one with your new drive.<\/p>\n

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Option 3<\/strong> is a 2-contactor bypass<\/strong>, and Option 4<\/strong> is a 3-contactor bypass<\/strong>. Both are designed to minimize system downtime should the VFD fail. These bypasses are ideal for facilities that run 24\/7 and can neither afford downtime nor wait for after-hours repairs, such as a big-box store or casino. The difference between the two centers on how easily the failed drive can be replaced. If a VFD fails, the motor it controls will stop running completely.<\/p>\n

A 2-contactor bypass allows a technician to flip the switch, bypass the VFD, and the motor will resume running at 100 percent speed. Eventually, the systems should be shut down in order to safely replace the drive.<\/p>\n

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A 3-contactor bypass adds another contact before the drive that removes power going to the VFD when placed in bypass mode. This means that if the VFD fails, it will be bypassed to maintain motor operation, and the VFD can also be safely removed and replaced with a new unit without interruption in motor operation. This is the main difference between a 2- and 3-contactor bypass:<\/p>\n