Cooper Crouse-Hinds Introduces Variable Frequency Drives for Hazardous Environments

Cooper Crouse-Hinds’ new ACE Series Explosionproof Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) are the only NEMA 7 VFD solution that can be safely and reliably installed in Class I, Division 1 or 2 hazardous areas. VFDs are already widely used to optimize the speed of motors controlling process equipment, but until now they have not been used inside classified enclosures because heat generated by the VFD inside the enclosure causes it to fail. Instead, VFDs are installed in control rooms outside of the hazardous area, resulting in expensive and impractical installations. The new explosionproof VFD from Cooper Crouse-Hinds, a leader in manufacturing electrical and instrumentation products for harsh and hazardous environments worldwide, provides an innovative solution to the costly challenge of utilizing a VFD in a hazardous environment.

Currently available up to 60HP, the ACE Series Explosionproof VFD features a NEMA 7 enclosure with patent pending active cooling technology that allows a VFD to be housed inside the classified enclosure without the risk of overheating and failing. Expensive and complicated installations are eliminated, as there is no need to run long lines of conduit and motor cable, navigate around obstacles, or build off-site control rooms in non-hazardous areas to house VFD clusters.

In addition to installation savings, ACE Explosionproof VFDs can lower energy consumption, decrease maintenance costs, and reduce downtime. ACE Explosionproof VFDs allow a motor’s power level to be adjusted exactly to performance needs, significantly lowering energy consumption. Built-in diagnostics constantly monitor equipment information and operating conditions, bringing real-time visibility to potential problems, which can prevent plant downtime. The ability to lower system speed and loads, plus soft start capabilities, helps reduce stress on the overall electrical system so there is less risk of damage or dangerous plant brownouts.

“We are excited to bring the ACE Explosionproof VFD to our customers,” said Grant Gawronski, President, Cooper Crouse-Hinds. “This product is the result of over two years of innovative research and development at Cooper Crouse-Hinds, and it is gratifying to introduce a product that will be revolutionary for plants in tough industries. The challenge of realizing the benefits of VFDs in hazardous installations has always been a big one for the industry, and Cooper Crouse-Hinds now provides a unique solution. The ACE Explosionproof VFD is the simplest, safest and most cost effective VFD solution for motor control in hazardous areas.”

The new product is built using the reliable EJB Explosionproof enclosure with an epoxy paint finish for superior corrosion resistance, and includes an explosionproof keypad and window that allows for operation of the VFD without opening the enclosure door. The ACE Explosionproof VFD features a heavy duty blower inside the enclosure that creates airflow, allowing it to operate in ambient temperatures up to 50ºC.
Designed to meet the demanding requirements of the oil and gas industry, the ACE Explosionproof VFD is suitable for a wide range of tough applications, including petrochemical, water and waste water and OEM skid builders.

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