Launchpad for HVAC drive

The ACH580 drive, meets the demand for uninterrupted performance required for mission-critical applications. In addition to offering energy savings up to 60%, the drive offers an intuitive operating panel enabling quick and easy installation, and native BACnet (and Modbus) communications.

There will be an on-stand demonstration of an ACH580 drive and synchronous reluctance motor (SynRM) package.

ACH580 is said to have the highest efficiency class for a drive and provides superior efficiency with all motor types, including induction, permanent magnet and SynRM motors. Energy savings are calculated internally and can be sent back to a building management system (BMS) via fieldbus. The drive also includes variable-speed internal fans, further saving energy.

However, it is when partnered with ABB’s IE4 SynRM motor that the ACH580 achieves energy savings of up to 60%.

Another exhibit demonstrates the cube law principles behind the VSD, namely, reducing motor speed by only 20% decreases energy consumption by up to 50%. A fan-based machine uses a balloon to demonstrate the potential energy savings of a VSD versus a conventional damper control system. The VSD controls the speed of an electric motor, which in turn drives a fan which pushes air through this duct. Within the duct is a mechanical damper, used to restrict air flow. Dampers are commonly used to control air flow in industrial applications. ABB says the demo shows that using VSDs can save up to 60% energy and incur less noise than damper control.

The ACH580 features embedded HVAC communications capability, which allows users to control applications, report findings and perform diagnostics natively through BACnet MS/TP and HVAC protocols. BACnet IP over EtherNet can also be incorporated as an option.
ACH580’s intelligence and BACnet interoperability will be demonstrated by simulating the functions of a simple air handling unit. The drive integrates with a touch panel simulating a BMS operator workstation via BACnet, while the drive’s intelligence is used to control external devices, including a three-way valve and an air damper.

Speak to an expert

Experts from ABB’s energy team will be on stand offering advice on how they can optimise the energy efficiency and reliability of their HVAC applications with the latest VSDs, electric motors and life cycle services, including an ABB energy assessment.

On average, electric motors account for 65% of any facility’s electricity consumption. In just half a day, an ABB energy assessment will create an accurate picture of a facility’s motor-driven applications and identify where the greatest energy savings can be made. This information can then be used as part of an organisation’s ESOS assessment. 

In addition, ABB’s John Guthrie will be looking at the impact of VSDs on a diverse range of sectors, offering real-life energy saving examples from venues including hospitals and swimming pools through to water & wastewater. The talk will take place on Thursday 17 November 2016, 11:50 - 12:20 at the Technology and Innovation Theatre.