Understanding the Life Expectancy of an ABB VFD
With years of experience in industrial automation and control systems, Automation Pioneer provides extensive knowledge and insights on the subject. To that end, we address a popular question among field professionals: what is the life expectancy of an ABB VFD. ABB (Asea Brown Boveri) is a manufacturer of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) that are included in a wide range of technologies and systems across various industries. Knowing what to expect in terms of ABB VFD service life is key to scheduling maintenance, replacing equipment and optimizing overall system performance.
Introduction to ABB VFDs
ABB VFDs are used in a wide variety of industries to optimize motor control and efficiency. These drives work by varying the frequency and voltage supplied to an electric motor, which changes motor speed and torque. The results are greater motor control, lower energy use and improved overall system operational efficiency.
Life Expectancy
Several factors will determine the life expectancy of an ABB VFD. It is important to note that every installation is unique and requires an in-depth analysis. However, the following are general factors:
Operating Environment – The environment in which a VFD is installed has a substantial affect on its life. Temperature, humidity, dust and vibration each have a bearing on a drive’s performance and longevity. For best results, installation should be carried out in a controlled environment and the temperature and humidity ranges recommended by the manufacturer should be strictly followed.
Load Profile – The load profile (i.e. how often and by how much the load fluctuates in frequency) can have significant bearing on the life expectancy of an ABB VFD. Continuous heavy loads, frequent start-stop cycles and abrupt load change conditions each place additional strain on a drive and may lead to reduced service life.
Maintenance Practices
Regular and proactive maintenance is crucial to the lifespan of all industrial equipment including ABB VFDs. Performing scheduled inspections and cleaning, as well as promptly replacing components that are subjected to friction, heat, and wear and tear, will significantly increase the drive’s longevity.
Electrical Supply Quality
The quality and stability of power supplied to the VFD is critical to its performance and lifespan. Power disturbances such as voltage spikes, harmonics, and swells can damage the drive. Surge protection devices, line reactors, and power line filters are helpful in mitigating these disturbances.
Typical Life Expectancy of ABB VFDs
It is difficult to quantify an exact life expectancy for ABB VFDs because life is subject to various factors, such as the application, the control system environment, and adherence to recommended operational practices. Generally, the average life expectancy of an ABB VFD is 10 to 15 years. However, with proper installation, routine maintenance, and adherence to the control environment’s operational guidelines, the life of the VFD can be extended beyond these parameters.
Extending the Life of an ABB VFD
By observing the following recommendations, you will experience prolonged life of the ABB VFD:
Adequate Cooling and Ventilation
It is important to keep the VFD within the manufacturer’s recommended temperature range, and proper cooling and ventilation is critical in doing so. The VFD should be installed in an area that is free of heat-emitting devices and implements cooling fans or heat sinks, if necessary.
Regular Inspections and Cleaning
Establish a schedule for routine inspections that will identify wear, abnormal operation, and loose connections. Cooling fans should be inspected and cleaned regularly, to ensure they operate properly. You should also ensure that the VFDs internal components are free from harmful dirt and dust.
Voltage and Current Monitoring
Constantly monitoring voltage and current levels is crucial to identify abnormal conditions signaling potential problems with the VFD. Advanced monitoring systems can detect any deviation from expected values and the necessary corrective interventions and/or maintenance can be performedmanship, leading to increased safety, lower cost of ownership and higher availability.
Timely Replacement of Components
Some components, such as fans and capacitors, have a limited lifespan and their failure can significantly affect the VFD performance. It’s essential to follow the specified intervals set by the manufacturer to replace such components, as this will prevent unexpected failures, which in turn minimizes down-time.
Software Updates
For ABB VFDs, software updates and firmware improvements are released on a regular basis. These updates often include bug fixes that weren’t evident when the equipment was tested before release, as well as performance improvements and occasionally even some added functionalities. By not keeping the VFD software updated, a user could be missing out on significant performance enhancements that may extend the life of the equipment.
Training and Expert Support
Training and support from personnel responsible for operating and maintaining the VFDs is a critical piece of the puzzle. Properly trained personnel can more quickly diagnose issues, as well as implement preventive measures to ensure that the VFDs operate within the required parameters.
Conclusion
The life span of an ABB VFD will vary due to many criteria such as the operating environment, load profile, maintenance practices and electrical supply quality. However, a typical average life span for an ABB VFD is between 10 to 15 years.
However, by implementing the correct cooling and ventilation, regularly inspecting and cleaning, monitoring voltage and current levels, timely replacing components, keeping the software up to date and providing the appropriate training, you can maximise that typical average life span and ensure your ABB VFDs operate to their optimal performance throughout their life.
At Automation Pioneer, our team specializes in offering expert advice and support for industrial automation solutions – including products from ABB Drives. We can assist you with optimizing the performance and longevity of your VFD’s, to help get the most out of your operations in terms of efficiency and productivity.
