HVACR systems are essential for maintaining indoor comfort and air quality in various settings, such as residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. However, some HVACR applications may require operation in harsh and challenging outdoor environments, such as rain, snow, salt spray, dust, UV radiation, and corrosive chemicals. These conditions can pose a threat to the performance and durability of the HVACR equipment, especially the variable frequency drives (VFDs) that control the speed and torque of the motors.
To address this challenge, ABB has introduced the ACH580 4X VFD, a new addition to its all-compatible drive portfolio that is designed specifically for HVACR applications in extreme environments. The ACH580 4X VFD is certified to UL Type 4X (NEMA 4X and IP66 rating), which ensures protection against water, dust, ice, and corrosion. The drive is fully sealed and UV-resistant, and can withstand temperatures ranging from -20 to 50 °C. It also features a sun shield option to help maintain optimal performance when exposed to direct sunlight.
The ACH580 4X VFD is not only robust, but also efficient and easy to use. It incorporates several features that are purpose-built for HVACR, such as:
- Flying start: This feature allows the drive to seamlessly control spinning motors, which can reduce mechanical stress and improve system reliability.
- Multi-pump control: This feature enables the drive to coordinate the operation of multiple pumps, which can enhance system efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
- Freezestat response: This feature detects when the temperature of the water in the system drops below a certain threshold, and activates a predefined action to prevent freezing and damage.
- Resonance monitoring: This feature monitors the vibration of the system and adjusts the speed of the motor to avoid resonance frequencies, which can cause noise and wear.
- Fire override: This feature allows the drive to override normal operation and run the motor at full speed in case of a fire emergency, which can help evacuate smoke and save lives.
The ACH580 4X VFD also features a standard Bluetooth control panel, which allows users to commission and monitor the drive from up to 75 m away using ABB apps like Drivetune and Drive Composer. This enhances convenience and safety, as users can work with the drive from a safe location. The drive also supports various communication protocols, such as BACnet, Modbus, and Ethernet, which enable easy integration with other HVACR devices and systems.
The ACH580 4X VFD is available in multiple power ratings from 1 HP to 30 HP in one-phase 240 V, three-phase 208 V to 240 V, three-phase 380 V to 480 V, and three-phase 500 V to 600 V. It can be used for various HVACR applications, such as rooftop air handling units, cooling towers, exterior exhaust fans, outdoor pump skids, and more. The drive also offers a flange mount option, which saves on cooling and cabinet space, while ensuring full Type 4X rating. Additionally, the drive can include an optional built-in disconnect switch, which simplifies installation and eliminates the need for branch circuit fuses, while maintaining a 100 kA short-circuit current rating.
The following table summarizes some of the key specifications and features of the ACH580 4X VFD:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Power range | 1 to 30 HP (0.75 kW to 22 kW) |
| Voltage | 1-phase, 240 V, +10%/-15% <br> 3-phase, 208 to 240 V, +10%/-15% <br> 3-phase, 380 to 480 V, +10%/-15% <br> 3-phase, 500 to 600 V, +10%/-15% |
| Frequency | 60/50 Hz ±5% |
| Mains choke | DC choke |
| Degree of protection | UL Type 4X/IP66 <br> Sun shield required outdoors when in direct sunlight (drive is UV resistant) |
| Ambient conditions | -20 to 40 °C, no frost allowed <br> 40 to 50 °C with derate |
| Compliance | UL, CSA, cUL, CE, EAC, EIP, UKCA, KC, TÜV Nord (safety functions) |
| Safety functions | Safe torque off (STO) according to EN/IEC 61800-5-2, SIL 3, PL e (TÜV Nord certified) |
| EMC | According to EMC Directive 2014/30/EU, EN 61800-3:2004 + A1 2012. Class C2 as standard |
| Harmonic mitigation | According to EN 61000-3-12: 2011 |
| Control connections | Two analog inputs, two analog outputs, six digital inputs, three relay outputs, EIA-485 (BACnet MS/TP, Modbus RTU and N2), safe torque off (STO), Bluetooth via control panel |
| Control and communication options | Fieldbus adapters: Modbus TCP, BACnet/IP (BTL certified), LonWorks, DeviceNet, PROFIBUS DP, Ethernet, PROFINET IO <br> Optional I/O extension modules: CMOD-01, CMOD-02, CHDI-01, CAIO-01 <br> PC tools: Drive Composer, Drivetune <br> Control panel options: Bluetooth control panel |
The ACH580 4X VFD is a reliable and efficient solution for HVACR applications in extreme environments. It offers protection, performance, and convenience, while reducing installation and maintenance costs. It is part of ABB’s all-compatible drive portfolio, which ensures compatibility and consistency across all drives and applications.
