Sumitomo AF-500 Inverter

[Bernez]

Hi all,

I just got a Sumitomo AF-500 Inverter in very good condition and for real cheap. Does anyone have some experience with this unit? I plan to use it along with a 2HP motor for my grinder (variable speed).
Found a manual (PDF) at http://smcyclo.com/documentation/index.shtml. Helas, they only talk about 60Hz settings. I need 50Hz (Europe). I think it can be set, but where.
I still have some more questions:
- is the potentiometer for control 5KΩ ???
- what wire size to use from outlet to inverter (1 fase 230V) and from inverter to motor (3 fase 230V). Unit is rated 8A and motor 5.3A (1.5KW).
- which wire size to use for the control (to potmeter)
- where do you mount/attach the main switch? Between the power outlet and the inverter OR between the inverter and the motor?
If you know more about this unit, please let hear it.

Thanks,
Bernez

[SamLS]

Generally speaking a frequency drive does not have to be "setup" or programmed for 50HZ input power manually. The input power is converted to DC then back to AC of varrying frequency so the drive doesn't care as long as you are within the input voltage range. You will typically only set this up for your desired output frequencies. I would call tech support directly if you cannot find the information in the manual.

[Bernez]

Thx Sam,

What I ment was for the input power (230V, 50Hz). Because it used to run up here, I assume it must also work at 50HZ.
I already wired everything according to the manual. But... the motor doesn't start.
The inverter "looks" to work just fine. No error message, no clipping. On the display I can see the frequence ramping when I press the forward button, but nothing happens.
I can hear something from the motor (very low). So, I think it get some power.
The motor is a 3 phases 220/380V, 1.5 Kw, 5.3A and is wired for a delta winding.
I've checked everything 100 times (wiring, program) but nothing help.
I know the motor is OK! The inverter "should" be OK!
Any idea what's wrong or maybe some advices on how to tackle the problem???

Thx,
Bernez

[Bernez]

Hi guys,

Just an update. My problem is solved
After I tried everything and nothing worked, I went to a specialized shop (repair and rebuild of electromotors). They tested the motor first, it was OK. Tested the drive, it was also OK. But, wired together it still did not work.
After a while, the guy got a wierd idea. He wired the motor in what we, up here, call "Star" winding.
Normally it has to be wired as "Delta" winding, but that wild guess did the trick
For one or another reason, the drive has been modified, the guy said.
The other good part is, I didn't have to pay a cent for this check/test (took him ? 30min), that's what I call a perfect service.

This evening I hooked a potmeter and tested it. It works like a charm

Bernez