Advanced Investigation of Three-Phase Variable Frequency Drive Performance Under Single-Phase Supply Conditions
Marat, Yusupov (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025111828363
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025111828363
Tiivistelmä
This thesis investigates the performance of three-phase Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) when operated under single-phase power supply conditions. VFDs are designed for balanced three-phase input, practical constraints in residential, rural, and retrofit applications often necessitate their operation from single-phase sources. Such adaptation introduces significant electrical and thermal challenges, including increased DC-link voltage ripple, elevated harmonic distortion, and component stress, particularly across the rectifier and DC-link capacitors.
The research combines theoretical modelling with laboratory experimentation using an ABB ACS480 three-phase 230V VFD. Parameters such as DC-link voltage ripple, input and output current waveforms, and thermal characteristics were measured under both three-phase and single-phase supply conditions. Results indicate that single-phase operation produces approximately threefold higher DC-link ripple amplitude, accompanied by a 6-15 °C temperature rise in key components. Despite these stresses, stable operation was maintained up to 65% torque rating, validating the applicability of derating practices recommended by manufacturers and standards.
Thesis concludes that single-phase operation of three-phase VFDs is technically feasible but requires derating, improved thermal management, and adherence to harmonic limits prescribed by IEC 61800-3 and IEEE 519. The findings provide practical guidelines for engineers and system integrators, offering an empirically supported framework for safe and efficient adaptation of three-phase VFDs in single-phase environments.
The research combines theoretical modelling with laboratory experimentation using an ABB ACS480 three-phase 230V VFD. Parameters such as DC-link voltage ripple, input and output current waveforms, and thermal characteristics were measured under both three-phase and single-phase supply conditions. Results indicate that single-phase operation produces approximately threefold higher DC-link ripple amplitude, accompanied by a 6-15 °C temperature rise in key components. Despite these stresses, stable operation was maintained up to 65% torque rating, validating the applicability of derating practices recommended by manufacturers and standards.
Thesis concludes that single-phase operation of three-phase VFDs is technically feasible but requires derating, improved thermal management, and adherence to harmonic limits prescribed by IEC 61800-3 and IEEE 519. The findings provide practical guidelines for engineers and system integrators, offering an empirically supported framework for safe and efficient adaptation of three-phase VFDs in single-phase environments.