motoromvormer

A motoromvormer, also known as a motor converter or motor-generator set, is a device used to change the frequency or voltage of an alternating current (AC) electrical supply, primarily to control the speed of AC electric motors. It typically consists of an AC motor coupled to an AC generator. The motor operates on the incoming power supply, and its mechanical output drives the generator. The generator, in turn, produces AC power at a different frequency and/or voltage, which is then supplied to the driven AC motor. This allows for variable speed control of the motor without altering the main power supply frequency.

Motoromvormers were historically a common method for achieving variable speed control, particularly in industrial applications where precise speed adjustment was required for processes like pumps, fans, and machine tools. By varying the speed of the generator, the frequency of the output power can be altered, thereby changing the rotational speed of the AC motor. The output voltage can also often be adjusted depending on the design of the generator. While effective, motoromvormers are generally less efficient than modern solid-state variable frequency drives (VFDs) due to the energy losses in both the motor and the generator. They are also larger, heavier, and require more maintenance than VFDs. Consequently, motoromvormers have largely been replaced by electronic VFDs in many applications due to their superior efficiency, flexibility, and reduced footprint. However, they may still be found in legacy systems or in specialized applications where their robustness or specific performance characteristics are still valued.