Technical

Notes
Variable Frequency Drives vs. Fluid
Couplings
1. VFD’s allow for improved process control vs. fluid coupling (0.1% to 0.5%
speed regulation throughout the operating speed range).

2. VFD’s communication capabilities allow for a variety of remote control and

monitoring of the drive and process parameters (4-20 mA analog control,
REMOTE I/O, Data Highway Plus, DeviceNet, Modbus, Modbus Plus, etc.).

3. VFD’s do not require maintenance under normal use.

4. VFD’s control the motor directly (a complicated mechanical drivetrain in not

required). This means a fewer torsional resonances that can cause
mechanical problems with the driven load, motor and mechanical coupling.

5. VFD’s not only can reach synchronous speed but can also overspeed the
motor if required to increase capacity (motor must be sized for this
capability). Fluid couplings always have a coupling slip making even attaining
synchronous motor speed impossible.

6. VFD’s (Allen-Bradley CSI-PWM technology) have an SCR rectifier that allows

the drive to regenerate power back to the line (for example - downhill
conveyor applications). This regeneration capability can also be used to
brake the load (in conjunction with a mechanical brake to hold in the stopped
position). This isn’t possible with a fluid coupling.

7. VFD’s have the capability to be bypassed by an electromechanical starter or

electronic soft-starter, if required. The fluid coupling is in line between the
motor and the load – it cannot be bypassed. When the fluid coupling fails the
process must be shut down until repairs are made.

8. VFD’s are much more efficient than fluid couplings. The efficiency advantage
is approximately 5% at full speed and full load and can be more than 25%
more efficient as the speed and loading decreases (see attached graph).
This means that, if fluid couplings are used, the customer must purchase
motors that are significantly oversized (more $$) for the application because
of the HP losses in the fluid coupling.

9. VFD’s control the motor starting current. The starting current is usually very
close to or equal the motor rated full load current. The inrush current for the
motor used with a fluid coupling will be approximately the standard 600% of
full load current (NEMA B squirrel cage motor). This may cause voltage dip
problems on weaker power systems.
 Fig.1 – Fluid coupling mechanical Fig.2 – Fluid coupling construction
cross section diagram

Efficiency
100

90

80

Variable Speed
70 Advanced Fluid Drive
Standard fluid Drive

60

30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Speed