Introduction to solid-state adjustable speed drives

The author reviews three areas that are basic to understanding adjustable-speed motor drives: fundamentals of variable-speed controls, including process control, history of adjustable-speed control, solid-state power components, solid-state devices, and DC and AC drives; adjustable-speed-drive applications, both variable torque and constant torque; and effects of power system disturbance on solid-state drives. Factors that must be considered in the successful implementation of solid-state drives to improve quality or reduce process cost are summarized.<>