Custom Designed “Built Up” VFD Panels are an AEC Specialty

There are many instances when an off-the-shelf enclosed variable frequency drive (VFD) may not be suitable or sufficient, and a custom-designed VFD panel becomes necessary. AEC Engineering can help! Our engineers can design a complete solution that meets the unique needs of the application and specifications of your project.

Here are some examples when an custom control panel may be needed:

1. 1. Environmental Conditions:
      • Harsh Environments: In applications where VFDs are exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity, dust, or corrosive chemicals (e.g., chemical plants, food processing facilities, water treatment plants), a custom panel can include protective features such as temperature control, sealing, and enclosures made from corrosion-resistant materials.
      • Explosion-Proof Applications: In hazardous locations with flammable gases (e.g., oil refineries), a custom VFD panel designed to be explosion-proof is required for safety and compliance with industry regulations.
   2. Specialized Motor Control Requirements:
      • Unique Motor Types: Some applications involve unconventional motor types that require specific drive configurations. A custom VFD panel can be built to accommodate these unique needs.
      • Advanced Control Algorithms: Applications requiring advanced control strategies (like vector control or coordinating multiple motors) may necessitate custom programming and hardware components not available in standard VFDs.
   3. Integration with Existing Systems:
      • Communication Protocols: If the application must integrate with specific industrial protocols (Modbus, Profibus, EtherNet/IP, etc.) or proprietary systems, a custom VFD panel allows for tailored communication interfaces and network configurations. AEC Engineering has SCADA and PLC technicians on staff who can solve these challenges.
      • Centralized Control: In centralized control systems, custom panels can integrate multiple VFDs, PLCs, and monitoring systems into a single interface, providing better control, visualization, and data collection.
   4. Size and Space Constraints:
      • Limited Space: In scenarios where space is limited (e.g., retrofitting into existing machinery or optimizing layout within a control room), a compact custom designed panel may be engineered to fit the available space more efficiently than standard enclosures.
      • Multi-functional Controls: With applications that require multiple VFDs or other controls in a confined area, custom panels can combine functions in a more space-efficient manner.
   5. Power Supply Variations:
      • Unique Power Requirements: Applications with non-standard power supply configurations (e.g., specific voltage, frequency, or three-phase requirements) may need custom power conditioning or conversion features integrated into the control panel.
   6. Special Rules and Specifications:
      • Compliance with Specific Standards: Industries like aerospace, medical, or automotive may have strict compliance standards that necessitate custom designs to meet precise regulatory requirements (like UL standards).

   In summary, when VFD applications encounter unique environmental, operational, technological, or regulatory challenges, AEC Engineering can be a valuable resource to custom design and build a control panel to meet specific requirements and enhance overall system performance.