Feature

Capacitors boost efficiency and life of Vacon drives

Vacon is now using film capacitors in the dc link section of all its latest products. These are more reliable than electrolytic capacitors and their adoption means that one of the most common sources of VSD problems is avoided.

22/06/2014 14:24:59

Film capacitors have no significant inherent ageing processes and have a typical operating lifetime in excess of 100 years. If they should sustain minor damage they self-repair, and they are unaffected by elevated operating temperatures that would greatly reduce the life of electrolytic capacitors. They are ready for immediate use after storage, without the need for complicated and often inconvenient reforming.

The internal losses of film capacitors are up to 80 percent lower than those of electrolytic capacitors, which means reduced heat generation, higher VSD efficiency and lower cooling costs. Moreover, the special handling imposed by WEEE regulations for electrolytic capacitors is not necessary for film types, making their eventual disposal much easier and less costly.

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.