Tech Insights

Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)

Last updated May 16, 2025, generated by Sumble

What is Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)?

A Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) is a type of motor controller that drives an electric motor by varying the frequency and voltage supplied to the electric motor. Other names for a VFD are variable speed drive, adjustable speed drive, adjustable frequency drive, AC drive, microdrive, and inverter. VFDs are used in applications ranging from small appliances to large compressors. About 25% of the world's electrical energy is used by electric motors in industrial applications. VFDs can reduce energy consumption and improve system control in these applications.

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What other technologies are related to Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)?

Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) Competitor Technologies

Servo drive motor systems

Servo drive motor systems compete with VFDs in applications requiring precise motion control, as they offer more advanced control algorithms and feedback mechanisms.

mentioned alongside Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) in 82% (98) of relevant job posts

servo drives

Servo drives compete with VFDs in precise motion control applications, offering more advanced control algorithms and feedback capabilities.

mentioned alongside Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) in 4% (293) of relevant job posts

Servo Drives and Motors

Servo systems compete with VFDs in applications requiring precise motion control, as they offer more advanced control algorithms and feedback mechanisms.

mentioned alongside Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) in 11% (51) of relevant job posts

Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) Complementary Technologies

PLC input/output cards

VFDs are often controlled by PLCs, and PLC I/O cards are used to interface with the VFD, enabling control and monitoring.

mentioned alongside Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) in 78% (214) of relevant job posts

safety modules

Safety modules can be used to implement safety functions related to the motor controlled by the VFD, such as safe torque off (STO).

mentioned alongside Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) in 54% (219) of relevant job posts

servo motor

Servo motors can be controlled by VFDs, though typically servo drives are used.

mentioned alongside Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) in 34% (288) of relevant job posts

Which job functions mention Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)?

Job function

Jobs mentioning Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)

Orgs mentioning Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)

Facilities

Engineer

Construction

Electrician

Electrical Engineer

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