Estimated Study Time: 4 minutes
Load profile (speed range, torque and power)
Certain load types are characteristic in the industrial world. Knowing the load profile (speed range, torque and power) is essential when selecting a suitable motor and frequency converter for the application.
Some common load types are shown. There may also be combinations of these types.
- Constant Torque
- Quadratic torque
- Constant power
- Constant power/torque
- Starting/breakaway torque demand
1. Constant torque
A constant torque load type is typical when fixed volumes are being handled. For example screw compressors, feeders and conveyors are typical constant torque applications.
Torque is constant and the power is linearly proportional to the speed.
2. Quadratic torque
Quadratic torque is the most common load type. Typical applications are centrifugal pumps and fans. The torque is quadratically, and the power is cubically proportional to the speed.
3. Constant power
A constant power load is normal when material is being rolled and the diameter changes during rolling. The power is constant and the torque is inversely proportional to the speed.
4. Constant power/torque
This load type is common in the paper industry. It is a combination of constant power and constant torque load types. This load type is often a consequence of dimensioning the system according to the need for certain power at high speed.
5. Starting/breakaway torque demand
In some applications high torque at low frequencies is needed. This has to be considered in dimensioning. Typical applications for this load type are for example extruders and screw pumps.
Few More Words…
There are also several other load types. They are however hard to describe in a general presentation.
Just to mention a few, there are different symmetrical (rollers, cranes, etc.) and unsymmetrical loads. Symmetry/non-symmetry in torque can be for example as a function of angle or time. These kinds of load types must be dimensioned carefully taking into account the overloadability margins of the motor and the frequency converter, as well as the average torque of the motor.
Reference // Dimensioning of a drive system – ABB’s Technical guide
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Edvard Csanyi
Hi, I'm an electrical engineer, programmer and founder of EEP - Electrical Engineering Portal. I worked twelve years at Schneider Electric in the position of technical support for low- and medium-voltage projects and the design of busbar trunking systems.I'm highly specialized in the design of LV/MV switchgear and low-voltage, high-power busbar trunking (<6300A) in substations, commercial buildings and industry facilities. I'm also a professional in AutoCAD programming.
Profile: Edvard Csanyi
Hi Edvard, thank you for a very informative article.
You may also refer to our article about load types and their characteristics:
https://mb-drive-services.com/load-types-and-characteristics/
We would be happy to cross-collaborate! Our focus is on variable frequency drives (VFD) and drive systems so we do not compete but rather complement each other.
Best regards,
Martin
MB Drive Services
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