and maximizes overall system reliability. Follow the
recommendations listed for maximum performance and
equipment longevity.
•
Although converters can operate at temperatures
down to -10
°
C, proper operation at rated load is
only guaranteed at 0
°
C or higher.
•
Do not exceed the maximum temperature limit.
•
The lifetime of electronic components decreases
by 50% for every 10
°
C when operated above its
design temperature.
•
Even devices with IP54, IP55, or IP66 protection
ratings must adhere to the specified ambient
temperature ranges.
•
Additional air conditioning of the cabinet or
installation site may be required.
3.6.3 Cooling
Frequency converters dissipate power in the form of heat.
The following recommendations are necessary for effective
cooling of the units.
•
Maximum air temperature to enter enclosure
must never exceed 40
°
C [104
°
F].
•
Day/night average temperature must not exceed
35
°
C [95
°
F]
•
Mount the unit to allow for unhindered cooling
airflow through the cooling fins. See
for correct mounting
clearances.
•
Provide minimum front and rear clearance
requirements for cooling airflow. See the
VLT
®
VLT
®
DriveMotor FCP 106 and FCM 106 Operating
Instructions
for proper installation requirements.
3.6.4 Aggressive Environments
A frequency converter contains many mechanical and
electronic components. All are to some extent vulnerable
to environmental effects.
NOTICE
The frequency converter should not be installed in
environments with airborne liquids, particles, or gases
capable of affecting and damaging the electronic
components. Failure to take the necessary protective
measures increases the risk of stoppages, thus reducing
the life of the frequency converter.
Liquids can be carried through the air and condense in the
frequency converter and may cause corrosion of
components and metal parts. Steam, oil, and salt water
may cause corrosion of components and metal parts. In
such environments, use equipment with enclosure rating
IP54.
Airborne particles such as dust may cause mechanical,
electrical, or thermal failure in the frequency converter. A
typical indicator of excessive levels of airborne particles is
dust particles around the frequency converter fan. In dusty
environments, use equipment with enclosure rating IP54 or
a cabinet for IP20/TYPE 1 equipment.
In environments with high temperatures and humidity,
corrosive gases such as sulphur, nitrogen, and chlorine
compounds causes chemical processes on the frequency
converter components.
Such chemical reactions rapidly affects and damages the
electronic components. In such environments, mount the
equipment in a cabinet with fresh air ventilation, keeping
aggressive gases away from the frequency converter.
Before installing the frequency converter, check the
ambient air for liquids, particles, and gases. This is done by
observing existing installations in this environment. Typical
indicators of harmful airborne liquids are water or oil on
metal parts, or corrosion of metal parts.
Excessive dust particle levels are often found on instal-
lation cabinets and existing electrical installations. One
indicator of aggressive airborne gases is blackening of
copper rails and cable ends on existing installations.
3.6.5 Ambient Temperature
For recommended ambient temperature during storage
and operation, refer to
chapter 6.5 Ambient Conditions
and
chapter 6.10 Derating According to Ambient Temperature and
Switching Frequency
System Integration
VLT
®
DriveMotor FCP 106 and FCM 106 Design Guide
MG03M102 -
08/2015
33
3
3
