CHOKES/REACTORS

Input and output chokes, also referred to as line and load reactors, are used to improve the electrical performance and provide additional protection in variable speed drive (VSD) and motor control applications. By introducing controlled inductance into the power circuit, reactors help limit current transients, reduce electrical stresses and improve the operating conditions of connected equipment.

​

Electrical Manufacturing manufactures input and output reactors for industrial drive systems, with each reactor designed according to the electrical characteristics of the installation and the requirements of the connected equipment.

​

INPUT CHOKES

​

Input chokes are installed between the incoming supply and the VSD to provide impedance between the drive and the electrical network. They help reduce the effects of supply disturbances and current transients while limiting the rate of change of current drawn by the drive.

​

Depending on the system configuration and specified impedance, an input reactor can also assist in reducing the harmonic current contribution of the VSD and provide additional protection against voltage disturbances and transient conditions on the supply.

​

OUTPUT CHOKES

​

Output chokes are installed between the VSD and motor to reduce the electrical stresses associated with the drive's high-frequency switching waveform. They can be particularly beneficial where there are long motor cable runs or where the connected motor requires additional protection from rapid voltage changes.

​

Output reactors help reduce the rate of voltage rise at the motor terminals, attenuate high-frequency components and reduce the effects of reflected-wave phenomena that can occur on longer cable installations. They can also help reduce motor insulation stress and improve the overall operating conditions of the drive and motor system.

​

ENGINEERED TO SUIT THE DRIVE SYSTEM

​

The correct selection of a reactor depends on more than the motor's rated current. Supply voltage, frequency, motor current, switching characteristics, cable length, required impedance, installation environment and the intended duty of the equipment all influence the reactor design.

 

Electrical Manufacturing can manufacture input and output reactors to suit the specific requirements of the drive system, including application-specific inductance, current rating and impedance characteristics.