Introduction
Data centers use massive amounts of energy and 40% of this goes to cooling systems. Other consumers are the IT equipment itself housed within the facility. Increasing density is set to raise this metric eightfold by 2030. With this, electricity cost has been a pain point for data center operators. Couple this with the carbon emission that stands in the way of sustainability. It is no surprise that operators are chasing ways to lower their facility’s Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) by leveraging cooling efficiency practices. One of these ways is integrating Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) into the cooling systems.

What is Variable Frequency Drive?
Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) controls the speed of the electric motors in the cooling system. It uses only adequate energy to provide the right amount of airflow. It controls the energy consumption of the cooling system components such as fans, pumps, and compressors. Some operators set the system to the maximum in the belief that this will maintain efficiency. However, this practice appears to be counterproductive. The energy is wasted as fans are running at full speed while controlling the airflow by throttling and damping.
A VFD works by varying the frequency of the system’s power supply. It eliminates the use of standard on/off motors, replacing it with precise control. With this, the motor speed can run up and down, and the IT load’s energy consumption can be maintained. Its energy efficiency has been manifested in the industry for years. Based on research, this solution can save up to 30% – 35% in cooling.

How Does Variable Frequency Drive Improve Energy Efficiency?
VFDs are used by various industries across the world, including data centers. The ways that this technology counters the massive energy use forced operators to adopt it. In 2019, almost 30% of the data centers have already invested in VFDs.
&nbsp;Here is how installing a VFD improves energy efficiency:
<ol>
<li dir = "auto">Control Starting Current – Too much current in starting the motor consumes a lot of energy and generates more heat. A VFD has the ability at a zero voltage or frequency. This tracks motor winding flexing and heat generation, extending the motor life.</li>
<li dir = "auto">Reduced Variation in the AC Voltage – Motor full load current can cause voltage sag. Voltage sag is a disturbance due to the reduction of the RMS value of the line voltage for a period of time. When this happens, the equipment can receive insufficient voltage causing them to trip offline. Installing VFD can prevent voltage sag.</li>
<li dir = "auto">Lower Starting Power Demand – Power demand in starting an ac motor across the line is higher than with a VFD. During peak hours, customers can experience surge prices. However, with VFD demanding lower starting power, the issue can be addressed.</li>
<li dir = "auto">Controlled Speed and Acceleration – VFD can accelerate and allows speed to be adjusted by a controller.</li>
<li dir = "auto">Limits the Torque – The VFD can adjust and limit the amount of torque that prevents the motor from reaching its threshold. This keeps the equipment from being damaged.</li>
</ol>
The Pump Affinity Laws
The Pump Affinity Law explains the ability of the Variable Frequency Drive to improve energy efficiency. The affinity laws are used in hydraulics, Hydronics, and/or HVAC to express the relationship between variables involved in pump or fan performance. With this, the variables are directly proportional to each other. Flow changes directly with a change in speed. Same with the head and the square of the speed; and required power and the cube of the speed.
&nbsp;This means if the pump speed decreases by 20%, the flow also decreases to 20%, and so on. Therefore, energy savings increases as the demand for flow and corresponding pump speed decreases.
Benefits Of Variable Frequency Drive To Data Centers
Variable Frequency Drive continues to transform and change the game in the data center industry. Aside from energy efficiency, it can also bring the following benefits:
<ol>
<li dir = "auto">Scalability – VFD is designed for high-density data centers. Units can be scaled up or down in capacity to meet demand. This can help the cooling system to counter more heat generated by thousands of servers within the facility. In addition, a standard AC motor allows existing data centers to be retrofitted with a new temperature control system.</li>
<li dir = "auto">Redundancy – Installing EC fan units in a fan array can provide redundancy in the failure of one EC motor. However, there is no hand mode so control from the driving keyboard can be lost without connection to the control system.</li>
<li dir = "auto">Reduced Cost – Cooling system efficiency can significantly reduce cost. Although it’s often overlooked due to its expensive installation, its saving capability is worth it as a long-term investment.</li>
<li dir = "auto">Higher Ambient Temperature – It allows the facility to operate at a higher temperature. According to the study, each degree Celsius increase in the center’s operating temperature can provide a 4% reduction in cooling costs. However, operators need to be dedicated to monitoring. The temperature might reach its threshold and damage sensitive equipment if not controlled.</li>
<li dir = "auto">Proactive Maintenance – VFD has automated control systems that allow operators to be more proactive. They are provided with precise control and a chance to take corrective actions for a potential problem.</li>
</ol>
The Drawbacks Of Variable Frequency Drives To Data Centers
Although Variable Frequency Drives can benefit data centers in several ways, it also holds some drawbacks. Overseeing these drawbacks can cause unwanted conditions to the data center. Thus, it is essential to know and see how to counter them before installing VFD.
<ol>
<li dir = "auto">Impaired Reliability – Energy savings is important but the ability to perform with utmost reliability should be the most priority of data centers. VFD can compromise reliability by damaging the windings of motors with low-grade insulation.</li>
<li dir = "auto">Installation Cost – VFD is expensive for smaller and start-up companies. It has several cost considerations in installation and application. It requires additional components that can add up to the cost.</li>
<li dir = "auto">Sensitive Environmental Condition – VFDs are more sensitive to very low or high temperatures than across-the-line starters. Drives need climate control and may need to be oversized to cope with intense heat.</li>
<li dir = "auto">Noise and Vibration – VFDs can also destroy the bearings of the motors they control. It can create a crater that roughens its surface. This can initially cause noise and vibration that will lead to bearing failure.</li>
</ol>
Why Monitor?
Installing Variable frequency drives is a huge capital for data centers. It requires consistent monitoring to ensure that all of its components are working. It can also help operators to evaluate how effective the VFD is. Therefore, integrating automated monitoring systems along with the VFD is a must. AKCP can make this task easier for operators. It offers a variety of sensors for different industries including data centers.

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Vibration Sensor
With the ever-increasing demand for operational efficiency and reduced downtime, predictive maintenance is a valuable tool. The AKCP sensors are multi-purpose sensors for various applications. The AKCP vibration sensor is a normally closed input switch that will detect when there is vibration. It can be connected to both the sensorProbe or securityProbe+ base units and then linked to notification alerts. The built-in tamper switch is independent of the circuit of the vibration detector for your convenience.

Power Monitoring Sensors
The AKCP Power Monitor Sensor gives vital information and allows you to remotely monitor power eliminating the need for manual power audits as well as providing immediate alerts to potential problems. The AKCP Power Monitor Sensor is specifically designed to be used with AKCP sensorProbe+ and securityProbe base units. It has been integrated into the sensorProbe+ and securityProbe web interface with its own “Power Management” menu, allowing multiple three-phase and single-phase Power Monitor Sensors to be set up on a single sensorProbe+ or securityProbe depending on which readings are required

Wireless Tank Depth Level Sensors
Monitor tanks of depths up to 20 meters. Often tanks are located in outdoor or difficult to cable areas. The WT-TDPS is battery powered or can be powered from a 5V DC or 12VDC source. Track fuel usage, graph the tank level, receive alerts when tank levels are critical. No more constraints on maximum cable lengths from the base unit. Easy installation and pairing with AKCP Wireless Tunnel™ Gateways.

Reference Links:
https://library.e.abb.com/public/49d24d9b978e119385257bf30062a596/ABB-721-WPO_data-center-cooling-systems.pdf
https://www.missioncriticalmagazine.com/articles/92746-driving-improvements-for-efficient-data-center-cooling
https://est-aegis.info/2019/03/reliable-data-center-cooling/
https://www.pumpsandsystems.com/vfd-cost-effective-option-your-application
https://www.wolfautomation.com/blog/benefits-vfd/

Variable Frequency Drive for Cooling Efficiency

Hitachi Variable Speed Drive <a href="http://www.inverters.com.sg/product/hitachi-inverter-drives-sj700-series">SJ700</a>, <a href="http://www.inverters.com.sg/product/hitachi-inverter-drives-sj700d-series">SJ700D</a>, <a href="http://www.inverters.com.sg/product/hitachi-inverter-drives-sj700b-series">SJ700B</a>, <a href="http://www.inverters.com.sg/product/hitachi-sj-series-p1-variable-frequency-drives">SJ Series P1</a>, <a href="http://www.inverters.com.sg/product/hitachi-inverter-drives-wj200-series">WJ200</a> has been assessed according to the assessment criteria of the Singapore Green Building Product certification scheme.

Hitachi Variable Speed Drive had awarded by Singapore Green Building product certificate

Hitachi is an industry leader in manufacturing of industrial inverters. Whether you’re looking for single phase inverters, a 3 phase industrial inverter, a bidirectional inverter for greater flexibility, Hitachi has a solution for customers. Hitachi industrial inverters use the innovative and robust Japanese technology for which the company is known all over the world. Hitachi has always been on the cutting edge of technology. They are continuously improving their product lines, including their industrial inverters. These inverters come with advanced features that aim for greater flexibility, reliability, efficiency and better performance in general. The latest introduction to an impressive product line is the world’s most advanced variable frequency drive (VFD), the Hitachi SJ Series P1 industrial inverter. <h2>Launch of the Hitachi SJ Series P1</h2>In November 2017, Hitachi launched the SJ Series P1 VFD as a paramount example of an inverter where cutting edge technology and high performance meets ease of use. This 3 phase industrial inverter comes in two configurations, a 200V (0.4 to 55kW) and a 400V model (0.75 to 132kW). It has several features that make it easy to customize, easy to use, versatile with multiple modes of operation, and cutting edge software for monitoring. <h2>A Review of the Hitachi SJ Series P1</h2>Here is a look at the Hitachi SJ Series P1 and what sets it apart from its peers.<h3>Easy Monitoring &amp; Troubleshooting</h3>The colour TFT operator makes the Hitachi SJ Series P1 easy to monitor. The display is well-designed with a spacious monitor screen that displays all the data and parameters you need to know. The Operations Panel is highly intuitive. Icons that are easy to understand tell you everything you need to know during use. There are 7 display languages to choose from. You can set your main screen view depending on your needs. For example, the Quick View will display data like set speed, output current and input terminal in three lines. The Clear View will show you one set of parameters or data on a large monitor screen. The Error View will show you a trip history. The menu is designed intuitively. Simply scroll down to find clearly label menu items with a highlighted cursor. You can save parameter data in the memory of the operation panel. Even if the inverter fails, you’ll be pleased to know that the model keeps your data safe.Another useful design feature shows attention to detail. If you use the battery, and the power is cut off from the inverter, the inverter stores the real-time data. You can use the Operation panel as a copy unit. You can also connect the panel remotely with an option cable. Since the SJ-P1 stores internal data automatically, it can be uploaded to a PC when troubleshooting for diagnosis. Another feature that makes troubleshooting painless is that the error messages are not presented in codes but through speech in the customer’s preferred language. <h3>Easy Access to Functions </h3>The body of the unit is designed so that the user or technician gets easy access to every function. You can choose between a screw-type terminal or an L-shaped bracket for panel mounting if needed. The cooling fins can be easily placed outside the terminal. The inverter lets you copy data to multiple inverters, so the changeover time to new inverters when it’s time for replacement is as short as possible. The wire terminal is cleverly designed with a screwless terminal block, standard communication terminals and easy to access DIP switch for 2 analogue inputs and 2 analogue outputs. <h3>Heavier Load Support for Demanding Applications </h3>The ND (normal duty) rated sensorless vector control (SLV) can handle heavy loads that have a need for low speed and high starting torque. The model operates at a maximum frequency of 590Hz. This makes it particularly useful for applications that need high speed rotation, such as in processing of metals. In these applications, it is common to see many standard industrial inverters trip when accelerating and de-accelerating. The SJ-P1 mitigates that risk with its automatic built-in speed adjuster. It decreases undershoot and overshoot so there is stable and smooth operation with lower load shock than most inverters are subject to. The induction mode achieves frequencies of up to 400 Hz with a motor that can match it. The inverter series is designed to be robust and sturdy for industrial use. When used in an environment of average temperatures of 40 degrees C and without corrosive gases, oil mist and flammable gas in the mix, the main circuit capacitor and the cooling fan are designed to last 10 years. <h3>Flexibility </h3>Hitachi’s inverters are particularly known for their flexibility. This inverter is also as flexible as its predecessors. It can control motors with permanent magnets as well as induction motors. Customers don’t need to purchase different types of inverters in scenarios where both types of motors are to be controlled. You can use the unit with other Hitachi induction motors or permanent magnet motors, as well as induction motors, SPM and IPM motors by other manufacturers. The auto-tuning feature lets you optimize the performance of the motor. Many other such drives involve complicated tuning procedures, that are avoided in this model. There are plenty of options to increase the functionality of the SJ-P1. Customers can use slide-in cassettes that are easy to access, and enhance performance and integration. The inverter comes with the space for three additional cassettes. The customer can choose safety specific options, encoder feedback or Ethernet based communications. <h3>Easy Customization</h3>The industrial inverter is easy to customize through the ProDriveNext PC configuration software. You can set parameters, monitor operations and diagnose issues. You can use a BASIC-like program to feed specific behaviours into the unit. You can use the EzSQ (Easy Sequence) programming software that Hitachi offers for inverters, to easily and quickly develop customized solutions for your application. <h3>More Control over Applications </h3>This cutting industrial inverter brings greater levels of control over a large number of applications such as cranes, pumps, fans, hydraulic pumps, milling machines, and more. The unit has a multi-rating for use with induction motors - VLD (very light duty), LD (light load) and ND (normal load). There are two PM motor control ratings - LD and ND. The possible applications therefore range from fan-pumps to metal tooling and conveyor belts, to cranes and mixers. <h3>Compliance with High Standards </h3>It is to be expected that Hitachi SJ-P1 will comply with high international standards. The SJ-P1 complies with UL, EC and cUL safety and quality standards. The noise filters that have been built into the units comply with environmental directives of the EMC. <h2>Where to Buy Hitachi SJ-P1 in Singapore</h2>Customers looking to buy the Hitachi SJ-P1 industrial inverter in Singapore can do so from First Wave Engineering Pte Ltd. master dealers and distributors of the P1 and other Hitachi drivers in the city. Singapore’s top industries use Hitachi industrial AC variable frequency drivers for a wide array of industrial inverter applications. With First Wave. you can get the best industrial inverter price and quality service. If you’re looking for power inverters for harsh environments of manufacturing plants and other heavy load applications, the Hitachi SJ-P1 is an excellent choice. This industrial grade inverter is built with advanced features for high performance, flexibility and reliability. The Hitachi brand is an expert in developing AC variable frequency drives that provide accuracy and functionality. The units are easy-to-install, maintain, use and program. The units are priced economically, and the SJ-P1 is the newest and arguably the best industrial grade inverter in its class in the market at the moment.

Hitachi Industrial Inverters SJ Series P1

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Variable Frequency Drive for Cooling Efficiency

Hitachi Variable Speed Drive had awarded by Singapore Green Building product certificate

Hitachi Industrial Inverters SJ Series P1