Storage and Transportation of SEW Variable Frequency Drives

Anyone with a basic understanding of electronic equipment surely knows that an SEW variable-frequency drive (VFD) operates by using power semiconductor devices to switch the mains‑frequency supply on and off, thereby converting it into electrical energy at a different frequency. In industrial settings, large electrical equipment equipped with SEW VFDs can achieve functions such as soft starting of AC induction motors, variable‑frequency speed control, improved operational accuracy, adjustment of the power factor, and protection against overcurrent, overvoltage, and overload conditions. Simply put, an SEW VFD is an electronic device that alters the voltage and frequency of a three‑phase AC power supply, thereby controlling the speed and torque of a three‑phase AC motor. Below, we will outline the key considerations for storing and transporting SEW VFDs—information that anyone planning to work in this field should carefully review.

To ensure the proper operation of SEW variable-frequency drive equipment, special care must be taken during transportation. It is best to avoid direct contact with the drive or subjecting it to strong impacts. During handling, do not bend any components or alter the spacing between them. Ideally, minimize contact with the drive’s components and terminals to prevent damage caused by operator error; in severe cases, such damage could even pose a health risk.

When storing SEW inverters, care must be taken to avoid placing them in areas with explosion hazards. They should also not be stored in environments containing oil, acids, gases, dust, or radiation—any such harmful conditions are unsuitable. Furthermore, even for long-term storage, the equipment should not simply be left idle; doing so can easily lead to rust or other malfunctions. Therefore, when storing SEW inverters over extended periods, it is advisable to power them up every two years and run them under normal operating conditions for five minutes. Failure to do so will significantly shorten the equipment’s service life.

That concludes our overview of the storage and transportation of SEW inverters. For detailed guidelines on these matters, please refer to the SEW inverter’s user manual. We hope this information proves helpful.