Mitsubishi Releases FR-D800 Series Compact, Next-Generation Inverters

Mitsubishi Electric has expanded its motion control catalog to include the new FR-D800 series inverters. These inverters are designed to provide precise motor control while occupying a smaller form factor. They can be programmed by a simple USB-C connection without requiring full power connections, making troubleshooting simpler and safer.

The FR-D800 series inverters are the successor to the FR-D700 series, ushering in enhanced features and a smaller body. Image used courtesy of Mitsubishi Electric

Inverters for Speed Control

Inverters are used for speed control of motors. Simply put, the inverter takes the grid voltage and changes the frequency of it to change the speed of the motor. For example, if the grid voltage is 60 Hz, and 60 Hz translates to 1800 RPM on a particular motor, the inverter can slow the motor to 1500 RPM by changing the output frequency to 50 Hz. In order to prevent the motor from stalling and overheating, the voltage output is adjusted with the frequency change.

One of the real advantages of an inverter is the ability to switch motor speed, ramping up and ramping down the speed in a controlled fashion. Furthermore, speed changes are made possible without the need to change gears or belts, meaning more precise speed control is available, and less maintenance is required with an inverter.

The FR-D800 can be powered through a laptop and USB-C connection without main power connections. Image used courtesy of Mitsubishi Electric

FR-D800 Series Inverters

Mitsubishi Electric’s FR-D800 series inverters are designed to simplify installation and programming in motion control applications. Some of the headaches removed by this design include a simplified programming process, a door panel for easy access while still protecting the connections, and integrated wiring for a clean install.

Available in models that are powered by 100 V (single phase), 200 V (single phase), and 400 V (three phase) sources, they can be used in a variety of motor control applications. Both induction motors and permanent magnet motors can be controlled with these inverters. Also, the unit itself occupies 37% less space than previous models.

Included with the inverter is an efficient motor control module that reduces energy usage. It has a low standby power consumption mode, making it “greener.” Perhaps one of the biggest time-saving features is the ability to program the FR-D800 series inverters over a USB-C connection without having to connect the power supply to the inverter. This makes troubleshooting easier and safer.

The FR-D800 supports induction and permanent magnet motors. Image used courtesy of Mitsubishi Electric

Motor Speed Control

When thinking about motor control, most people think about motion control—the movement of a machine or turning a wheel on an assembly line. However, motor control extends way beyond conveyor belts. At the heart of every pump, fan, auger, stirring tool, and many machine tools is a motor that benefits from tighter control.

Consider a pump that moves cooling water through a heat exchanger. With proper speed control, the pump only pumps as much water as is needed to cool to the necessary set point; all other water flow represents wasted energy.

With the FR-D800 series inverter, Mitsubishi aims to make speed control precise and simple, saving energy, troubleshooting time, and space on the factory floor.