Schneider Electric has launched a drive dedicated to HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) applications. The Altivar 212 drive (below) incorporates a technology that minimises energy use by pumps and fans by monitoring the motor flux and adjusting its output to maximise efficiency. The drive is also claimed to generate less harmonics than most VSDs, with a THDi of less than 30% without needing an extra filter.

The drive incorporates a fire mode function for motors used for smoke extraction duties, and a damper control function to ensure that the motor does not start when dampers are not in the correct position. Motor noise reduction and resonance suppression functions allow pumps and fans to be located in occupied rooms or public areas.

Dedicated pump functions include jam and load management, mechanical shock suppression, pressure compensation, and a function to supply water in the event of a broken pipe or leak.

To connect to building management systems, the ATV212 supports Modbus, Bacnet, Apogee and Metasys communications, with LonWorks as an option. It also supports Bluetooth mobile phone connections via Schneider’s SoMove software suite, for remote configuration and control.

The drive comes in ratings from 0.75–75kW for 380–480V three-phase systems, and 0.75–30kW for 200–240V three-phase systems. It is available with IP21 or IP55 protective ratings. For versions up to 2.2kW, there is a DIN-rail mounting option.

A graphic keypad option provides a plain English text display to make set-up and fault diagnosis easier.