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High pressure pumps with frequency converter. Recommendations for the selection of frequency converters for water supply and heating pumps. Using the pump in autonomous water supply and heating systems

Modern household and industrial pumps work through the use of electric motor capacity. It is the electric motor that can be considered a true heart of the pump. Initially, the adjustment of its work performed only a pressure switch or more complex automation.

However B. lately For these purposes began to use frequency converters.

Device and purpose

Frequency converter For the pump performs a very useful feature. The fact is that modern pumps remain appliances that cannot be initially controlled properly. Of course, you can install a relay on it, but these are only semi-dimensions.

With such equipment, the pump engine will always work fully. With maximum power supply, it works even too powerfully. But the problem here is that it consumes a lot of energy.

And the resulting overpressure In the pipes will not lead to anything good. As a result, the situation is happening when due to its constructive features Pumps work inefficient.

Do not forget about problems with the supply of electricity, voltage drops and other unpleasant things. All these moments can lead to the outlet of the pump or too fast to wear it.

Solve the problem is very easy. You just need to install a frequency converter on pumping equipment. It serves as a stabilizer, automation and pump controller.

Very often, manufacturers of pumping stations still at the assembly stage integrate converters into the pump circuit. Bright example are the pumps of Grundfos with frequency regulationwhich in stores are bought with increased intensity.

It looks like a device like a box with electronic filling and a small screen. Inverters are placed inside the converter to align the voltage, several automation boards and special sensors for measurements.

IN expensive models Built in microprocessor. There are also models with batteries with additional alignments, etc. Converters can be single-phase or three-phase.

The principle of operation of the converter is very simple. Innings electric current First goes to the device board. It is aligned with stabilizers and inverters. At the same time, the sensors on the converter estimate the level of pressure in the system, as well as all other necessary indicators.

Data is fed to the automation unit. The transducer then estimates the required power of the pump and gives it exactly so much electricity as needed to perform the tasks.

Also converters can provide smooth start engines, they emergency stop etc. The list of all functions is very difficult to describe, as the developers constantly improve their products.

You can adjust the converter by all of several simple commands. Commands are administered using buttons and screen. The more expensive the device, the more teams it can be recognized. Quality converters have dozens of possible modes of operation, speeds and programs.

It is quite obvious that there are a lot of advantages from the converters. It has been proven that they pay for the first year of operation. Cons of such equipment are also available, but they are insignificant.

Pluses of frequency converters:

  • Input voltage alignment;
  • Pump power adjustment;
  • The possibility of saving electricity;
  • Improving the service life of the pump engine;
  • Performing the functions of automation of pumping stations;
  • The presence of a converter can save you from the need to buy a hydroaccumulator;
  • Reducing noise from pump operation.

Cons of frequency converters:

  • Pretty high equipment price;
  • Setting and connecting the converter is desirable to trust professionals.

About models

Modern manufacturers quickly oriented and began to produce converters in large quantities. Pump manufacturers either left aside. Above mentioned about Grundfos pumps with frequency regulation, but this practice is popular with other popular companies.

  • Grundfos Cue. - This is a frequency converter from the well-known company of the manufacturer of pumps. They specifically designed converters so that those the best way interact with their products. The device is able to finely adjust the pump operation, perform the functions of automation and fuse. CUE systems are very diverse and have many variations. For the converter will have to lay out a substantial amount. Grundfos systems Cue cost 400-500 dollars. Here, the power of the equipment is seriously influenced. What it is more, the more expensive the converter itself.
  • ERMAN E-9 converter is a budget solution. The device is capable of compensating for a torque, smoothly start the pump engine and has up to 24 equipment control modes. The power of the converter should be selected separately. The device of the device is protected from dust and dirt ingress, which allows you to use it in different situations. The ERMAN E-9 converter in stores can be bought for 100-150 dollars.
  • Hyundai N 50. - This is a single-phase frequency converter of household use. His power is at the level of 0.7-2.5 kW. The converter has small dimensions and can be installed almost everywhere. A distinctive feature of this model is the possibility of its fine tuning by using multiple setting modes and 16 discrete speeds. The Hyundai N 50 model is sold for 250-300 dollars.
  • PowerFlex 40. - Another popular and universal model. It can be noted due to the presence of a high-quality drive with vector control. The drive includes the motor noise suppression functions, the automotive rotation of the electric motor, the protection of the system from overload and overheating, as well as the possibility of a smooth start. Well, the price of the device called PowerFlex 40 is 350-450 dollars.

The cost of the pump with the built-in converter will be even greater. For example, WILO pumps with frequency regulation Stratos 40 sell for 1000-1100 dollars.

Pumps used in autonomous water supply and heating systems are productive, but at the same time hardly costly in operational equipment due to the high level of power consumption. Reduce costs and significantly extend the service life of the pump can be complied with its frequency converter, which we will talk about in this article.

You will learn why you need and what functions the frequency converter performs. The principle of operation of such a device, their varieties, will be considered, specifications And recommendations on the choice of converters for borehole and circulation pumps are presented.

1 Why do you need a frequency converter?

Almost all modern pumps implemented in the budget and average price category are designed according to the principle of throttling. The electromotor of such aggregates always operates at maximum power, and changing the flow / pressure of the fluid feed is carried out by adjusting the shut-off reinforcement, which changes the cross section of the bandwidth.

Such a principle of operation has a number of significant drawbacks, it provokes the appearance of hydraulic shocks, since immediately after turning on the pump begins to swing water along the pipes at maximum power. Also, the problem is high power consumption and rapid wear of the system components - both the pump and shut-off reinforcement with the pipeline. Yes, and about the accurate setting of such a water supply system of the house from the well of speech can not be.

The above disadvantages are incorporated by pumps equipped with a frequency converter. This element allows you to effectively control the pressure generated in the water supply pipe or heating, by changing the value of the electricity incoming on the motor.

As can be seen in the diagram, the pumping equipment is always calculated by the parameter of the limit power, but in the maximum load mode, the pump operates only during periods of peak water consumption, which is extremely rare. In all other cases, the increased power of the equipment is unnecessary. The frequency converter, as statistics shows, saves up to 30-40% of electricity during the operation of circulating and borehole pumps.

1.1 Device and work algorithm

The frequency converter for water pumps is an electrical device that converts a constant voltage of the power supply into a variable on a predetermined amplitude and frequency. Almost all modern converters are made according to the double current change diagram. This design consists of a 3rd of the main parts:

  • unmanaged rectifier;
  • pulse inverter;
  • control system.

The key element of the design is the pulse inverter, which in turn consists of 5-8 key-transistors. Each of the keys is connected to the corresponding element of the winding of the electromotor stator. In foreign converters, IGBT transistors are used in Russian - their domestic counterparts.

The control system is represented by a microprocessor, which in parallel performs the protection functions (turns off the pump at strong current fluctuations in the power supply) and control. In the well pumps for water, the control element of the converter connects to the pressure relay, which allows you to function pumping station In fully automatic mode.

The algorithm for the operation of the frequency converter is quite simple. When the pressure relay determines that the pressure level in the hydraulic panel fell below the allowable minimum, the signal is transmitted to the converter and it starts the pump electric motor. The engine accelerates smoothly, which reduces hydraulic loads affecting the system. Modern converters allow the user to independently set the time of overclocking the motor in the range of 5-30 seconds.

In the process of acceleration, the signal sensor continuously transmits data on the pressure level in the pipeline to the converter. After it reaches the required value, the control unit stops overclocking and supports the specified motor turn frequency. If the water consumption point connected to the pump station will begin to spend more water, the converter will increase the feed pressure by increasing the pump performance, and vice versa.

1.2 Operation of the pump in a pair with a frequency converter (video)


If the pump you use does not have a built-in frequency converter, then you can purchase and install such a power regulator yourself. Usually manufacturers of pumps in technical passport Indicate which specifically the converter will suit this model of equipment.

  1. Power - the voltage converter is always selected based on the power of the electric drive to which it is connected.
  2. Input voltage - indicates the current current at which the converter remains operational. It is necessary to choose with a loaf of oscillations that can be in your power grid (reduced voltage leads to a stop of the device, with an increased it may simply fail). Also consider the engine type of pump - three, two or single-phase.
  3. The adjustment frequency range - for borehole pumps is optimal to be the range of 200-600 Hz (depends on the initial power of the pump), for circulating 200-350 Hz.
  4. The number of moves and outputs of the control - than them are more, the more commands and, as a result, the modes of operation of the converter in will be able to configure. The automation allows you to set the speed of revolutions when starting, several modes of maximum revolutions, acceleration pace, etc.
  5. The control method - for a well pumping station it will be the most convenient to be remote control, which can be placed inside the house, while the converter with a remote control is perfect for circulation pumps.

If you have left all the instruments on the market and faced the fact that there is simply no suitable for the characteristics of the equipment, it is necessary to narrow the selection criteria to a key factor - the current consumed by the engine, which is selected rated power converter.

Also choosing a frequency control unit, especially from domestic or Chinese manufacturers, consider the warranty service life. By its duration, it is possible to indirectly judge the reliability of the technique.

A few words about manufacturers. The leading company in this area is Grundfoss (Denmark), which supplies over 15 different models converters. So, for pumps with three-phase electric motor The MICRO DRIVE FC101 model is suitable, for single-phase (operating from the standard 220V) - FC51.

Rockwell Automation (Germany) is more affordable in the price plan. Company We offer a line of PowerFlex 4 and 40 converters for low-power circulation pumps and a PowerFlex 400 series for borehole pumping stations (from one converter 3 parallel to the connected pump can be opened.

Consider that the price of a good converter sometimes may come up to the cost of the pump, so the connection and configuration of such an instrument must be performed exclusively by specialists.

The base element that ensures the functionality of the pump is an electric motor. Previously, the workflow adjustment was due to the automation, now this task is solved by the frequency converter for pumps.

Functional Purpose Frequency Converter in Pump Design

The inverter (frequency converter) provides the regulation of the pump operation much better than the relay. It works at the same time as a stabilizer, automation and workflow control. Thanks to him is provided high efficiency Device:

  • The level of electricity supply is reduced, if necessary, and frequency of rotation of the engine, which helps to protect the pump from premature wear.
  • Education is prevented in overpressure pipes.
  • The problem with the voltage jumps is solved, which also definitely increases the service life of the pump.

Mostly during the assembly process of the pumping station is implanted. The models of the very famous pump of Grundfos should be attributed to the number of similar devices.

Visually, it is a box equipped with electronics (several boards, a measurement sensor, and an inverter that levels the voltage level) and a small-sized screen.

More expensive samples are equipped with microprocessors. Batteries, additional equalizers and so on can be built.

The converters used may be single-phase or three-phase type.

According to the principle of operation, the frequency converter is quite simple. Electric current wave is supplied to the instrument board. Inverters and stabilizers located there provide its alignment. At the same time, the sensor reads pressure data and other meaningful information.

All information is redirected to the automation unit. Further, the frequency converter is evaluated by determining the power level to be submitted, and, accordingly, submitting the amount of electricity required to continue operation.

As a result, the frequency converter can adjust the smoothness of the launch of the electric motors, the water pressure level and the work stop in the critical situation. The list of all assigned duties is constantly expanding in view of the improvements produced by developers.

The process of controlling the actions of the converter is carried out by only by pressing the desired buttons to the data on the data displayed on the screen. More expensive devices are able to recognize more commands. The most high-quality models are designed for several dozen operating modes with a change in speed and program.

The cost of installing and buying the converter is fully compensated for one year of operation.

List of positive frequency converter functions:

  • The ability to level the input voltage.
  • Ensuring the power adjustment of the pump.
  • Creating conditions that save electricity.
  • Increase the duration of operation pumping equipment.
  • Providing work opportunities without a hydroaccumulator.
  • Stabilization of intrasystem pressure.
  • Reducing the noise effect of the pump.

He also works as a deputy automation.

Negative moments:

  • High cost of instrument.
  • Configuration and connection is usually available only to specialists.

The frequency converter works in the pump design as follows: with a significant drop in the pressure level in the hydraulic panel (determined by the relay), the frequency of the corresponding signal receives the corresponding signal and gives the command to start the electric motor. In this case, everything is carried out "without sharp movements", the capacity is growing gradually, providing insurance against hydraulic overload. Currently, the converter models provide the regulation of overclocking time from 5 to 30 seconds.

While overclocking the converter is increasingly obtaining information about what the pressure level in the pipeline is carried out. As soon as this level reaches the desired value, overclocking stops, the engine operation continues on the frequency achieved.

How to choose and install equipment?

Standard complete set of pumping station consists of:

  • Submersible or surface pump;
  • Pressure gauge;
  • A hose equipped with a stainless coating;
  • Hydroaccumulator;
  • Water pressure relay.

TO additional equipment Believe:

  • Uninterruptible power sources;
  • Sensor;
  • Blocks;
  • Managers relay etc.

If the design of the already existing pumping equipment is not equipped with a frequency converter, then it can be done independent installation. Usually, in the documentation pump attached to the model, there are indications as to which the transducer can interact the pump of this type.

In the absence of such information, it is necessary, based on significant parameters, choose the converter yourself:

  1. Power level.

Matching is required between the power of the electric drive and the converter.

  1. The input voltage value.

Specifying at what strength the current converter works. Here it is necessary to consider what can be potential fluctuations on the network (low voltage level provokes a stop, high - breakdown).

  1. Pump engine category.

Single phase, two-phase or three-phase.

  1. The boundaries of the frequency control range.

For borehole pump 200 - 600 Hz required (depending on what the primary power of the pump), for the circular pump - 350 Hz.

  1. Compliance of the number of inputs / outputs of operational needs.

What they are more, the greater the possibilities of managing the workflow.

  1. Choice suitable way Control.

In the case of a well pump - a remote control control, which allows you to control directly from the house, and circulation pump Work perfectly with remote control.

Determine the reliability of the purchased devices needs to be indirectly by the duration of the warranty period. Accordingly, than it is more, the better quality.

Where to install a transducer for the pump?

Frequency converters having a hydraulic connection are installed directly on the pressure line. Without such an connection, only the water pressure sensor connected to the IF is attached to the highway.

Convert is located as close as possible to the pump, but only inside the heated room. The overall diagram of the power connection is simple and does not cause difficulties.

Models of transducers for pump

  • Grundfos Cue.

Transducers manufactured by the company located in Denmark and the producing pumps. As a result, these frequencies are designed to maximize the design of the pump models from Grundfos. The device is responsible for the thin regulation of the entire mechanism, the execution of protected and control functions. CUE system converters are distinguished by a variety of high-quality models (more than 15 types in assortment), but their value is appropriate. In addition, the price directly depends on whether the frequency converter is required for the mechanism. Among the spectrum of models, you can find converters and for a single-phase pump (), and for three-phase (Micro Drive FC101).

  • ERMAN E-9

Converters of this company are characterized by budgetary. They are responsible for compensation for the torque, the smoothness of the launch, pressure control and possess different control modes of the number up to 24. Power matching is individually selected. There is a protective housing that protects against dust and dirt exposure.

  • Hyundai N 50.

Single-phase type frequency converter. Can be used in household appliances. The power level is 0.7-2.5 kW. Small-sized, making it easy to install in any devices. Notable in that it provides a fine setting due to several setup modes and 16 discrete speeds. It is about twice as much more than the previous model.

  • PowerFlex 40.

Models of this brand are distinguished by universality and are very popular. Them distinctive feature - Quality drive and vector control. The drive besides otherwise, shifts during the engine operation, automatically picks up the speed of rotation electric engine, protects the entire mechanism from overload and overheating, provides a smooth start. According to the cost comparable to Grundfos Cue..

Using the pump in autonomous water supply and heating systems

The pump models of this category are considered very productive, but differ excessively high levels Energy consumption that, of course, makes it difficult. Reduce the volume of energy consumption, the pressure level and extend the service life allow you to explain the same frequency converters.

Most of modern pumps Designed in accordance with the principle of throttling. Electrical motors of these mechanisms are in operation on the upper power limit, that is, literally on wear. Often due to the lack of smoothness, when turned on, powerful hydraulic blows are observed, spoiling the pump design. To accurately configure such a mechanism, it is also pretty to try.

The calculation of data for pumping equipment is always based on the maximum power level, although the maximum load does the mechanism experience only episodically during the peak water consumption, which happens infrequently. The rest of the time to work at the limit of possibilities is completely unjustified. Just at such moments, the frequency converter for a circulating and downhole pump reduces energy consumption by 30 - 40%.

Among other things, the use of a frequency converter in the pump station providing water delivery allows you to prevent the problem of "dry stroke". It is relevant in cases where there is no water inside the system, and the engine is running on. Due to the "dry stroke", an engine overheating and the breakdown of the mechanism as a whole can occur. This once again proves the need to use the converter.

Single-phase frequency converter for the pump within the water supply system

Ergonomics of instruments is a very significant indicator within the framework of domestic services. Improving this parameter for the water supply system using a low-power single-phase pump model is difficult, since this requires a transducer with an input / output voltage level of 1x220V, and find such difficult.

Typically, household pumps do not have complaints of energy consumption, but this does not compensate for the purchase costs, due to its rare operation.

However, the installation of the converter does not lose relevance, since it helps maintain permanent network pressure. In other words, here is a request for comfortable operation.

This option is especially important when using hot water. That is, the use of the frequency eliminates the temperature surges and changes in the pressure of the pressure.

Single-phase converters are suitable for both submersible and surface pumps.

Single-phase frequency converter for home use

Standard type converters are usually not equipped with hydraulic connections. An attempt to independently modernizing the device under such needs can be useless, even if a specialist will take out for the case.

Realizing this problem, manufacturers engaged in the release of frequency converters created a special single-phase frequency converter for a pump providing household systems water supply.

One of the similar converters is equipped with a hydraulic connection and capable of performing all standard Tasks PLATES.