Schneider Electric VFDs: Choosing the Right Altivar Drive for Every Application 

If you work with industrial motors, you already know this: running a motor at full speed all the time is inefficient, expensive, and unnecessary. That’s where Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) come in — and Schneider Electric VFDs are among the most reliable solutions in the market.

In this guide, we break down the Schneider Altivar series (ATV320, ATV340, ATV630, ATV930) to help you choose the best VFD for your application.

What is a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)?

A Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) controls motor speed by adjusting the frequency and voltage supplied to the motor.

Key Benefits of VFDs:

• Energy savings (up to 50% reduction in power consumption)
• Improved process control
• Reduced mechanical stress
• Longer equipment lifespan

👉 Example: Reducing motor speed by 20% can cut energy usage by nearly 50% due to the cube law in pump and fan systems.

Schneider Electric Altivar Drives Overview

The Schneider Electric Altivar series offers a wide range of VFDs designed for both machine-level and process-level applications.

ATV320 – Compact VFD for Machine Builders

The Schneider ATV320 VFD is a compact, cost-effective drive designed for OEM machine builders.

Key Features:

• Power range: 0.18 – 15 kW
• Supports: EtherNet/IP, Modbus, CANopen, PROFIBUS
• Safety: STO (Safe Torque Off), SIL2 / PLd
• Flexible installation in small panels

Best Applications:

• Packaging machines
• Conveyor systems
• Textile machinery
• Food processing equipment

ATV340 – High-Performance VFD for Advanced Machines

The Schneider ATV340 drive is ideal for applications requiring precision control, high torque, and dynamic performance.

Key Features:

• Power range: 0.75 – 75 kW
• Supports asynchronous & synchronous motors (PM motors)
• Advanced control modes: V/F, SVC, FVC (encoder-based)
• Built-in PLC functionality (EcoStruxure integration)
• Safety: SIL3 / PLe

Best Applications:

• Printing and winding machines
• Automated warehousing systems
• Hoisting and crane systems
• Centrifuges and test rigs

ATV630 – Process VFD for Pumps, Fans & HVAC

The Schneider ATV630 VFD is specifically designed for variable torque applications like pumps and fans.

Key Features:

• Power range: 0.75 – 630 kW
• Built-in pump and fan control functions
• Features include:
  • Anti-water hammer protection
  • Sleep/wake mode
  • Multi-pump cascade control
• Available in IP21 / IP55 enclosures

Best Applications:

• Water treatment plants
• HVAC systems
• Irrigation systems
• Industrial cooling systems

ATV930 – Heavy-Duty VFD for Large Industrial Systems

The Schneider ATV930 drive is built for high-power industrial applications where reliability is critical.

Key Features:

• Power range: 22 – 2800 kW
• Voltage: 380 – 690V AC
• Built-in harmonic filtering
• Energy recovery capabilities
• Integrated with EcoStruxure Asset Advisor

Best Applications:

• Oil & gas industries
• Mining operations
• Power generation plants
• Large-scale water infrastructure

How to Choose the Right Schneider VFD

Choosing the correct Schneider Electric VFD depends on your application type:

For Machines (OEM Applications):

• Use ATV320 → simple, compact, cost-effective
• Use ATV340 → high performance, precision control

For Process Applications (Pumps & Fans):

• Use ATV630 → optimized for fluid systems
• Use ATV930 → large-scale, high-power operations

👉 Quick Tip:

• Pump or fan? → ATV630
• High-power system? → ATV930
• Machine control? → ATV320 / ATV340

 Why Choose Schneider Electric VFDs?

Schneider Electric Altivar drives stand out because they are:

✔ Application-specific (not one-size-fits-all)

✔ Energy efficient and cost-saving

✔ Easy to commission and integrate

✔ Backed by strong industrial reliability

The Right VFD Improves Everything

The right Variable Frequency Drive doesn’t just control a motor — it transforms your entire process.

Whether you need:

• A compact machine VFD (ATV320)
• A high-performance automation drive (ATV340)
• A pump & HVAC solution (ATV630)
• Or a heavy-duty industrial drive (ATV930)

👉 Schneider Electric has a solution tailored for your needs.

📞 Need Help Selecting the Right VFD?

Everbolt Engineering (Pvt) Ltd offers:

• ✔ Schneider Electric VFD supply
• ✔ Technical consultation
• ✔ Installation & commissioning support
• ✔ Energy optimization solutions

📩 Contact us with your motor kW rating, voltage, and application — and we’ll recommend the best Schneider Altivar drive for you.