Does anyone have experience using a variable frequency drive on an 110/220v anchor windlass? It appears that a soft starter wouldn't work, but a VFD should on a high torque asynchronous motor like a windlass.
Well the shipyard that I am having discussions with has spec'd as standard equipment a 230v 50Hz commercial windlass. Actually all pumps, motors, lights, etc. in the entire vessel are spec'd at 230v.
So I am considering his proposal to be an all electric boat. However I can only afford a single genset, so I need to consider a large inverter to be the second "generator."
So the purpose of the VFD is not necessarily to vary the speed but more to provide a reduced startup amperage that would be within the specs of the inverter.
Does anyone have experience using a variable frequency drive on an 110/220v anchor windlass? It appears that a soft starter wouldn't work, but a VFD should on a high torque asynchronous motor like a windlass.
Definitely use a VFD on your thrusters. That would be sweet.
Yes I contacted Vetus technical support and they stated to use a VFD would cut startup power draw demonstrably. I can't find the email just now, but I recall it was about half.
I can't find the email just now, but I recall it was about half.