Analysis and Field Tests of a New Adjustable Frequency Drive Technology for the Pipe Line Industry

This paper provides field data and installation history from one 5000 hp and four 4250 hp multi-level pulse width modulated (PWM ) medium voltage adjustable frequency drive systems which are used to control the speed of centrifugal pumps. The multi-level PWM drive has a number of advantages over alternative adjustable drive technologies for the pipeline industry. This is the first use of this multi-level PWM drive for pipeline operation and the first installation of this multi-level PWM drive with closed synchronous transfer. This paper briefly outlines the advantages of the AFD for the pipeline industry and the basic application concerns, which must be dealt with when they are used. The paper then describes the theory of operation of the multi-level PWM drive and the theoretical advantages of this drive technology. The last section of the paper is a summary and evaluation of field data.