When a specialist supplier of concrete surface preparation equipment in Australia was having problems with the reliability of one of its floor grinders, Invertek’s Optidrive E3 variable frequency drive was able to provide the perfect solution.

The machine, used for creating low maintenance polished concrete floors in warehouses, retail stores, offices and even private homes, was initially being run on a single phase ABB ACS 150 drive.

This drive, however, was causing problems and had to be enclosed and ventilated, at a cost to the company. Despite this, dust was still able to get through the unit, causing damage to the machine’s fans and components.

Then a variable frequency drive using 230 VAC, configured for one phase support, was tried. This drive looked great and had an impressive shock rating but it also had to use dry type capacitors which meant derating had to be massive.

This caused issues with keeping the DC link stable, leading to unpredictable operation of the grinding machine and very poor torque being experienced.

Invertek were called in and recommended the firm use the Optidrive E3 with 240 VAC because it offered good stability, even when overloaded. It is also IP66 rated, meaning it is dust-tight, thus preventing the on-going problem of damage being caused to the machine’s fans and components.

Brett Masters, Invertek’s Sales Partner in Brisbane, Australia, said: “After installing the Optidrive E3, the machine was transformed in terms of stability while torque performance could be raised from 50Hz to 60Hz without causing any issues.

“Both the motor and Optidrive E3 were tested extensively under hours of continuous, very demanding loading. Despite this onerous testing regime, motor and load temperatures were kept low and there were no problems with tripping.

“Even when there was poor power available, the grinding machine remained acceptably powerful and could carry out its function without any problems,” he added.

Kes Beech, Technical Director for Invertek, added: “Our Optidrive E3 was able to provide this company with hassle-free performance and reliability. We were able to quickly understand the issues the company was having and recommend a solution that was not only a great match to the demands of the machine but was also backed up with support and understanding of the drive parameters, ensuring another satisfied customer.”

Find out more about the Optidrive E3 at www.invertekdrives.com