1.1 Scope
A variable speed drive is essentially an electronic power converter that generates a multi-phase, variable frequency output that can be used to drive a standard line operated ac motor, or permanent magnet synchronous or other converter-fed motor, and to modulate and control the motor’s speed, torque and mechanical power output.
Variable speed drives may be purchased either as a stand-alone product or purchased as part of another item of plant or machinery. They are included on the Energy Technology Product List because they can realise substantial energy savings when used to control the speed and torque of machinery.
The Energy Technology List (ETL) Scheme covers two categories of products:
- Variable Speed Drives for line operated ac motors (as defined within the ETL category line operated ac motors)
- Variable Speed Drives for converter-fed motors (as defined within the ETL category converter-fed motors)
Products which are able to control both line operated ac motors and converter-fed motors are also covered, as long as all of the eligibility criteria are met for both forms of control.
To be eligible for inclusion on the ETL, products shall meet the requirements as set out below.
1.2 Definitions
A variable speed drive is specifically designed to drive a motor in a manner that rotates the motor’s drive shaft at a variable speed dictated by an external signal.
1.3 Requirements
1.3.1 Eligibility requirements
Eligible products shall:
- Provide an adjustable variable-voltage, variable-frequency output that can be matched to the torque-speed characteristic of the load (being driven by the motor), including both loads with a quadratic torque-speed and linear torque-speed characteristics. The relationship between the voltage and frequency of the product's output shall either be:
a) Predefined prior to sale to match a number of specific motor loads, which can be selected during commissioning; OR
b) Programmed into the product during installation using a multi-point approximation or parametric motor model as part of a clearly defined commissioning procedure; OR
c) Determined during commissioning by a self-tuning or automatic model identification algorithm that automatically minimises the energy consumption of the drive; OR
d) Automatically adjusted during operation as part of a control algorithm in a manner that ensures the product's output matches the characteristics of the motor and its load and minimises energy consumption of the drive; OR
e) Any combination of (a) to (d) above.
- Be able to automatically vary, in response to an external control signal, the frequency of its output between 5% (or less) and 100% (or greater) of the frequency of its alternating current supply.
- Be configured for direct connection to the UK public electricity supply system, or a private alternating current supply of nominally fixed frequency and voltage.
- Be designed to make smooth controlled transitions between speed changes by the use of predefined, programmable, or automatically adjusted, acceleration and deceleration ramps.
- Have an appropriate Conformity Assessment mark, or otherwise demonstrate conformity with the requirements of The Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016 and where applicable, the requirements of the Ecodesign for Energy-Related Products and Energy Information Regulations 2021.
- Not incorporate any type of mechanical apparatus that derives its motive force from the product’s variable frequency output, including any form of electric motor or fluid movement mechanism, except for fans or pumps incorporated solely for the purpose of product cooling.
Where the relationship between the voltage and frequency of the product's output is determined by a multi-point approximation, then flux optimisation shall be adjustable at a minimum of five points.
The criteria stated above shall be clearly presented in the product brochure, leaflet, technical specification sheet. It may also be supported by the relevant operation instruction document demonstrating the product’s functionality in accordance with the criteria listed above.
1.4 Verification for ETL Listing
There are no testing requirements, however manufacturers shall provide sales and technical brochures to evidence the conformity of their products against the requirements from section 1.3.
1.5 Conformity testing
Products listed on the ETL may be subject to the scheme’s conformity testing programme in order to ensure listed models continue to meet the ETL requirements.
1.6 Review
1.6.1 Indicative review date
This specification is scheduled to be reviewed during the 2025/26 review cycle.
1.6.2 Illustrative future direction of the requirements
The next technical review will consider:
- Updates to product eligibility and functionality requirements as per market demand and any UK or EU regulatory changes.
- Improving methods of data refinement, and assumptions in respect of cost benefit modelling.
- Assessment of combined VSD product units/ systems.