VFD Medium Cable Complete Buying Guide

Overview of VFD Medium Voltage Cable

In any industrial application, the choice of a cable matters a lot. Whether it is in a manufacturing environment or a processing environment. There are many things that you need to look at when choosing a cable for such an environment.

They include automation, safety, strength, and versatility. It is such conditions that can motivate you to get VFD medium voltage cable.

What is a VFD cable and how can it be of importance in an industrial application?

To get more information about this cable, spare some minutes to read up to the end of this guide. We are going to uncover all the essentials of a VFD cable and even help you to choose one.

What is a VFD Medium Cable?

A VFD medium cable is a typical medium voltage cable that is designed to work in a VFD which is an acronym that stands for Variable Frequency Drive.

On the other hand, a VFD is a type of controller that is designed to alter the frequency of the signal or voltage for the purpose of controlling the speed of the motor.

So, this means that a VFD cable can handle the harsh electrical and physical environment which a standard cable cannot.

This is because VFD systems are known for generating a significant amount of electrical noise which comes in the form of voltage spikes, radiofrequency, and electromagnetic interference.

While these electrical noises are also experienced in other systems, they are amplified in the variable frequency drives. In fact, they can be 5 times higher and this makes it necessary to use VFD cables.

Initially, unshielded tray cables and single-conductor lead wires were used for transmitting voltage from AC drive systems to the AC motors. However, these cables did not have sufficient shielding or insulation

Advantages of VFD Medium  Voltage Cable

When do I need a VFD medium cable and how are they able to solve the problems that a normal voltage cable is unable to solve?

There are many different circumstances under which you will need a quality VFD medium cable. In most of circumstances, a normal or ordinary cable will not deliver the best results.

Such circumstances include:

-Intermittent issues with other communication and control systems in the factory.

-Motor drive failure and associated drive problems

-Premature failure of the cable

-Malfunctioning of the alarm system

-Motor bearing failure

-Shock hazards

-Physical damage on the cable

Here are the main advantages of VFD medium cable that enable it to solve the above problems:

1. Proper shielding

A typical VFD medium voltage cable is properly shielded so as to minimize noise from various external factors. The shielding of a VFD medium cable comes in the form of copper tape, copper braid or even armor.

When buying VFD medium cable, you should know that not all of them, are shielded equally. Some shields are stronger than others. However, you should ensure that the shield is strong enough to minimize inductive loading or even the frequency that is generated from the VFD.

The shielding of the VFD medium voltage cable eliminates the electromagnetic radiation that is generated during the transmission of electric current.

Most ordinary cables tend to experience this problem and can interfere with the general flow of current in a system.

The shielding also helps to minimize the risk of premature motor bearing. This technology achieves this goal by providing a low impedance path through which a common current flows back to the inverter frame. If this path is not provided, the current can find its way to the motor bearing and cause some damage.

2. Effective conductor design and excellent conductivity

The design of the conductors in a VFD cable ensures that it remains effective in its respective areas of applications. These cables tend to be very efficient when it comes to conducting electric current from one point to another.

The design of a VFD medium voltage cable is characterized by the asymmetrical relationship between the phase conductors and the grounds. This is where the is an equal number of phase conductor and ground conductor.

Still, in terms of conductor design, VFD cables are known for their appropriate stranding. They have a high strand count, a feature that eliminates the unwanted noise and promotes flexibility of the cable.

The strands also enhance the thermal stability of the cable while minimizing the issue of corrosion resistance.

3. Proper insulation

For a VFD system to perform effectively, it needs to have proper insulation. This is where VFD medium voltage cables come in handy. They are properly insulated to prevent voltage loss and external noise.

The most ideal insulation for the VFD medium voltage cable is XLPE although some VFD cables use PVC insulation.

XLPE is used on VFD cables due to its many desirable characteristics. One of them is it can allow large amounts of current to flow through it. The insulating material also gives allowance for a longer cable run. This feature improves the efficiency at which power flows from the motor to the drive.

Quality insulation prevents the peak standing wave voltage on the cable.

4. Physically strength

While keeping the electrical properties aside, you need to know whether your cable is physically strong to handle the VFD application and the industrial environment.

The good news is VFD medium cables have undergone industrial hardening which makes them ideal for harsh industrial environments. They are very rugged, a feature that gives them immunity against various forms of pf risks.

These cables are also well-protected against harsh weather conditions. They can withstand high humidity and extreme heat without malfunctioning. Oil-water and other chemicals can fail to leave any major impact on the cable.

5. Durable and cost-effective

From the physical characteristics of the VFD medium voltage cable, you can tell that they are very durable. As we have seen, all the components of the cable are made of premium materials. This means that they cannot get damaged easily.

The durability of the VFD medium voltage cable means you will not experience constant disruption that can be caused by a damaged cable.

You will also feel the impact in terms of financial constraints. You will not spend lots of money replacing the cable together with other VFD components. These cables also attract very low maintenance costs.

6. A wide range of applications

VFD medium cables have a wide range of industrial applications. They are capable of delivering the desired results in both small and large industrial applications.

With all these benefits, I hope that you are now fully convinced to buy the best and reliable VFD medium cable in China.

VFD Medium Cable Specifications

When buying VFD medium cable in China, it is critical that you put some focus on its technical aspects. They are what will determine the overall performance of the cable.

Here are the key technical specifications of the VFD medium cables that you should know:

-Conductor

The phase 2 conductor of the VFD cable should comprise of a stranded conductor. Usually, copper is an ideal choice of the conducting material for the phase conductor.

The number of the strands used may vary from one cable to another. Otherwise, the strands enhance the flexibility and efficiency of the cable.

-VFD cable insulation

Cross-Linked Polyethylene is the ideal insulating material for the VFD cable. Currently, it is rated among the best insulating materials.

XDLPE can perform well in both high and low temperatures. It is strong enough to resist abrasion, wear and tear.

-Screen

The copper tape is the ideal choice for the metallic screen that covers the core of the cable. Its role is to minimize electric noise inside the cable.

-Grounding and termination

VFD medium cable depends on the insulated grounds, drains, and shields for a proper grounding. It has at least 3 or more conductors that fulfill the grounding purpose of the cable.

-Certification

Check to confirm that the VFD cable is certified by all the relevant bodies. The certifications are simply to prove that the cable meets the highest quality levels that are required.

Checking the certifications is the easiest way of verifying the quality of the cable.

-VFD voltage ratings

VFD cable ratings are used to define the power that is transmitted by a cable.

The voltage rating of any cable is usually matched with the VDC converter/inverter voltage.

The table below summarizes the voltage rating of the VFD cable

Nominal converter/inverter voltage	Cable voltage rating
460	600 VAC with 2,000-volt insulation withstand
575/690	1,000 VAC with 2,000-volt insulation withstand
1,250	3 kV
3,300	8 kV

 

As you can see from the table above, the VFD medium cables are rated from 600V 1kV,2kV, and 3kV.

VFD Cable Applications-Where can I Use VFD Cable?

Buying VFD medium cable is one thing and using it is a different thing. So where are the VFD medium cables used?

As the name suggests, VFD cables are used anywhere where there is a VFD system. Such applications include the AC motors which are found in various industrial applications.

Here are specific applications where you are VFD cables are used:

(i) Lower power dissipation motor starters

There are motor starters that are designed to dissipate low watts. As they do so, they cut down on the cost of energy.

VFD cables are used for connecting power to these motor starters since they have all the features that are needed to minimize the voltage loss.

In this application, the VFD medium cable voltage rating should match with that of the rotors. In short, the cables are of importance in areas where energy management is an issue.

(ii) Smart motor control systems

VFD cables are commonly used in smart motor control systems. These are systems that are used for measuring and controlling energy consumption at the load level.

The systems are designed to send signals or warnings through the VFD medium cables in case the power consumption goes beyond the expected limit. The programmable logic controls will receive these signals and act on them.

These systems can also detect the abnormal running condition of the motors and will alert the controllers.

Overall, they enhance the management of the motor control systems.

(iii) Power monitoring systems

These cables are used in applications where the core purpose of the VFD is to monitor and collect data about energy consumption at the load level.

In these applications, the control systems are connected to the advanced software applications which are specifically designed for power management and monitoring.

The data that is collected by the motors is directly fed into the software applications for further analysis. From there, you will get a detailed report of the power consumption and even take appropriate action.

If it is a business or a company, the management will know what to do about the report.

(iv) Variable speed drives

Not all the speed drives are required to operate at their maximum potential all the time.

Some motors are required to run at low speeds during certain hours of operation. By running at low speeds, the motors will be able to minimize their energy consumption.

VFDs are usually used for controlling the behavior of motors for variable speed drives. They enhance the soft start while at the same time limit the current peaks. In doing so, they minimize energy consumption.

The desirable features of the VFD medium cables make them suitable for all of the above applications that we have listed here.

Given that each application has its unique requirements, you need to check the detailed specifications of the VFD cables for sale.

If you are not so sure, you may consider contacting the VFD cable manufacturer directly so that you get accurate information regarding the cable that you want.

Grounding VFD Cable

This is all about directing the current that is flowing through the VFD cable to the ground.

There are two main processes that are involved in the grounding of the VFD cable. The first step is to ground the motor to the base plate. The second step is to ground the base plate to the ground.

Also, a specific connection is made between the VFD and the motor. This connection should allow direct contact between the two. VFD should be grounded along with other devices that are mainly used for control.

The grounding cable should be of the same size as the power wiring so as to provide proper wiring protection. Braided ground connections are preferred because they have a lower frequency impedance.

One of the mistakes that you should avoid when grounding the VFD medium cable is failing to clean the feet of the motor properly. Ensure that there is no grease, paint, or any other debris around the ground.

Configurations of VFD Medium Cable

One of the differences between VFD cables is their configurations. By this, we are simply referring to the arrangement of the VFD cables. The configurations are highly regarded because they help to minimize the undesirable effects of the cable while at the same time amplify the desirable ones.

The basic arrangement of the VFD medium cables include:

-Three symmetrically arranged ground conductors

-Three symmetrically arranged phase conductors

-High integrity overall cable sheath

-Individual phase conductor

Based on the above arrangement, here are some of the main configurations for the VFD medium cables:

Priority 1 VFD cable: This VFD cable is designed to meet all the desirable features of an ideal VFD cable.

The configuration minimizes high-frequency emissions while at the same time eliminates the issue of phase unbalances.

It is perfectly configured to prevent interference with other equipment in the facility.

Copper tape is the preferred sheathing material for this configuration. This is because it provides adequate mechanical protection and a good grounding path.

Priority 2 VFD cable: This type of configuration is easily identified by its single ground conductor which is located at the center of the cable.

It also features a copper sheath for physical and mechanical protection. The shield of the cable hinders frequency emission.

-Priority 3 VFD cable: This configuration of VFD medium cable does not have a separate ground conductor. Instead, it depends on the whole sheath of the cable to meet its grounding needs. The regulation of emission is also done by the same sheath.

 

-Priority 4 VFD cable: This configuration comprises individual cables which are symmetrically arranged. The main phase conductors of these cables are designed to balance the phase current of the cables.

The main purpose of this arrangement is to minimize high-frequency emissions and ground currents.

Factors to Consider When Buying VFD Medium Cable

As we have already seen, not all the VFD Medium cables are the same. Some have better features than others. So it is up to you to ensure that you pick the best VFD medium cable for sale.

But, what should you do to ensure that you walk home with the best cable? Here are the key factors that you should consider when buying VFD medium cable in China:

(i) The size of the cable

Here, the size refers to the overall capacity of the cable. How much power or voltage load does the cable handle? The capacity of the cable should match the voltage load of the VFD system that is going to be used.

On the same note, the wires that are going to the motor should be labeled based on the current or voltage that is flowing through them.

Some applications may require small cables while other applications may require large cables. In other words, know your application and choose the size of the cable that will match its power needs.

(ii) Type and configuration of the cable

We have already seen that VFD medium cables have different configurations. When buying one, you should look at its type so as to know whether it will meet your needs.

Shielded VFD cables are preferred in all cases because they are good at providing the maximum electric shield. They prevent interference and radiation from the conductor.

You may also consider the configuration of the conductors and conductor of a particular cable over the other cable due to performance.

Safety and efficiency issues can also take a central role in determining the configuration of the cable that you choose.

(iii) The shielding

You should find out the type of shielding that has been used on the VFD medium cable. This is very important because not all the shields are the same. The shielding also helps to minimize the electric noise between the conductor and other electric noise.

(iv) The cost of VFD medium cable

Among all the factors that you have to take seriously is the cost of VFD cable in China. This is important because there is always a price variation among different VFD cables.

Some cables are cheap while others are quite costly.

Even as you aim at buying affordable VFD medium cable, you should always focus on the quality.

SSG Cable Group- Reliable VFD Medium Cable in China

Are you looking for quality and affordable VFD medium cable in China? Consider buying from the SSG cable group. We are a reputable and reliable VFD medium cable manufacturer and supplier in China.

We use quality raw material to manufacture the cables. We also follow all the necessary manufacturing procedures to ensure that nothing is compromised during the process.

Our VFD medium cables are in line with the required international standards. So you don’t have to worry about their quality or safety levels.

All that you need to do is contact us and we will send you more details about our VFD medium cables for sale.