Variable frequency Drives in Electric Elevator Systems – How They Work and Why They’re Essential

Posted on 10th Oct 2023

 

Regenerative Drive

Electric elevators are a common sight in both residential and commercial buildings, and their operation is based on a simple but effective principle – the elevators move up and down between floors by means of a continuously moving cable that is powered by an electric motor. However, the speed at which the elevator moves is not always constant, and this is where the Darwin Motion variable frequency drive such as Micro Drive- Matrix 900, DR Matrix 350 / Solar Drive, DR Matrix 500, DR Matrix 680,DR Matrix 880 comes into play.

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at how variable speed drives work in electric elevator systems, and why they are essential for providing a smooth, comfortable and safe ride.

What is a variable speed drive?

A variable speed drive (VSD) is a device used to control the speed of an electric motor. It does this by variably controlling the amount of power supplied to the motor. This allows for a wide range of speeds, which can be used to optimize the performance of the motor or machine.

How does a variable speed drive work in an electric elevator system?

Variable speed drives are used in electric elevator systems to control the speed of the elevator car. The drive converts the incoming AC power to DC power, which is then used to power the elevator car. The speed of the car is controlled by varying the amount of DC power that is sent to the motor. This allows the drive to match the speed of the car to the load on the motor, which results in a smoother and more comfortable ride.

Why are variable speed drives essential for electric elevator systems?

Variable frequency drive are essential for electric elevator systems because they allow the elevator to smoothly accelerate and decelerate, which is necessary for passenger safety. Without variable speed drives, the elevator would jerk abruptly between floors, causing passengers to lose their balance and potentially fall. Additionally, variable speed drives help conserve energy by reducing the amount of power needed to operate the elevator.

What are the benefits of using a variable speed drive in an electric elevator system?

Darwin Motion regenerative drive offer a number of benefits for electric elevator systems. They allow for more precise control of the speed of the elevator, which can lead to a smoother ride and less wear and tear on the system. They also allow for more efficient use of energy, which can lead to significant savings in operating costs. Lastly, they can help to extend the life of the elevator system by reducing wear and tear.