Which Altivar VFD Does Your Project Need?

If you are working in industrial automation, you know that not all Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) are created equal. While they all control motor speed, the difference between a "good enough" drive and the perfect drive for your application often comes down to torque management, form factor, and intelligence.

We currently stock a wide range of Schneider Electric Altivar drives. To help you select the right one for your next panel, let's break down the three main families : the ATV320, ATV630, and ATV930.

1. The Compact Workhorse: Altivar Machine ATV320

Best for: OEMs, simple machines, packaging, and conveyors.

The ATV320 is the go-to choice for machine builders who need reliability without wasting cabinet space. It is designed for simple open-loop control of asynchronous and synchronous motors.

Why choose it?

• Form Factor Flexibility: It comes in two shapes to fit different cabinets.
• • Compact Format: (e.g., ATV320U11N4C - 1.1KW) Great for shallow cabinets.
  • Book Format: (e.g., ATV320U04N4B - 0.37KW) Slim profile, allowing you to mount multiple drives side-by-side to save DIN rail width.
• Connectivity: It has integrated Modbus and CANopen, making it easy to integrate into simple PLC networks (like with a Modicon M241).

Braking: Includes a built-in dynamic brake transistor for connecting an external braking resistor.

2. The Fluid Expert: Altivar Process ATV630

Best for: Pumps, fans, and water/wastewater applications.

If you are moving water or air, the ATV630 series is built for you. These are "Service Oriented Drives" designed specifically for fluid management.

Why choose it?

• Energy Monitoring: It doesn't just run the motor; it tracks energy usage, helping you audit efficiency.
• Pump Protection: Built-in logic to detect cavitation, dry running, and low flow without needing external sensors.
• Variable Torque: Optimized for standard heavy-duty applications where torque requirements vary (like centrifugal pumps).

Braking: No dynamic braking resistor support; uses DC injection braking instead.

3. The Heavy Lifter: Altivar Process ATV930

Best for: Crushers, mixers, hoisting, and heavy conveyors.

When you have a high-inertia load or need precise torque control at low speeds, the ATV930 is the premium choice. Unlike the 600 series, the 900 series is designed for Constant Torque applications.

Why choose it?

• Braking Power: Select models include integrated braking units to handle regenerative energy from stopping heavy loads (like a hoist moving downwards); others support external options.
• Master/Slave: Excellent for applications where multiple motors need to work together in perfect sync.
• Closed Loop: Capable of handling encoder feedback for precision speed control.

Don't Forget the Accessories

A drive is often useless without the right interface. If your drive is mounted deep inside a panel, you'll need a remote mounting kit for the display.

• Remote Cables: The VW3A1104R30 (3-meter remote cable)
• Mounting Kits: The VW3A1112 door mounting kit to place the keypad on the panel door for easy operator access (IP65 rated).

Summary Selection Guide