SmartD: The Long Cable Run Dilemma – Where Should You Install the VFD?
The long cable run dilemma – where should you install the VFD? Sophia, a dedicated electrical engineer in a large industrial complex, has been tasked with installing a drive system where the motor is located hundreds of meters away from the control room. Like many engineers before her, she considers the usual question. Should I place the drive in the electrical room or near the motor itself? Placing the Drive in the Electrical Room: On the plus side, it keeps delicate electronics in a clean, temperature-controlled environment, making servicing easier and extending the drive’s lifespan. However, this setup demands long cable runs to the remote motor, which can mean voltage spikes, special filters, and potentially higher costs due to larger cable cross-sections and EMI concerns.
