160 kW VFD for process and utilities
The Schneider Electric ATV630C16N4F is a 160 kW normal-duty variable speed drive from the Altivar Process ATV600 series, designed for asynchronous and synchronous motors in process and utility applications. It delivers 302 A continuous output at 2.5 kHz for normal duty and 250 A for heavy duty, fed from a 380-440 V supply at 50/60 Hz. The drive includes integrated STO (Safe Torque Off) rated SIL 3 per IEC 61800-5-2, meeting the safety circuit requirements for machinery guarding and hazard zone isolation without external contactors.
Ratings and real-world fit
The 302 A continuous output at 2.5 kHz switching frequency sets the thermal ceiling for normal-duty applications like pumps and fans; for heavy-duty loads such as conveyors or compressors, the drive is rated 250 A at the same switching frequency. Line current draw is 251 A at 400 V for normal duty and 210 A for heavy duty — these figures govern the upstream cable and breaker sizing, not the motor nameplate. The integrated EMC filter supports motor cable runs up to 150 m while maintaining Category C3 compliance per IEC 61800-3, which is typical for industrial environments with a dedicated transformer or separate building supply. Output frequency range is 0.1 to 500 Hz, covering standard induction motor speed control as well as high-speed spindle or centrifuge applications.
Floor-standing enclosure with IP21 protection per IEC 60529 — suitable for indoor, clean industrial environments where drips and falling dirt are the main ingress risks, but not for washdown or outdoor placement. Forced-convection cooling moves 720 m³/h of air; the drive must be mounted vertically within ±10° and have clear space around the ventilation grilles to avoid recirculating hot exhaust air. Ambient operating range is -15 to 40 °C without derating, extending to 50 °C with a derating factor applied. Above 1000 m altitude, derate 1 % per 100 m up to 4800 m.
Communication and I/O flexibility
Slot A accepts fieldbus option cards for Profibus DP V1, PROFINET, DeviceNet, Modbus TCP/EtherNet/IP, CANopen, or Ethernet Powerlink, while the base unit includes Ethernet Modbus TCP and Modbus serial ports. Eight digital inputs are standard, with DI7 and DI8 programmable as 0-30 kHz pulse inputs for encoder or flowmeter feedback. An adjustable PID regulator is built in, allowing closed-loop control of pressure, level, or flow without an external controller.
Compliance documentation includes CE marking and standards IEC 60204-1, IEC 61800-2, IEC 61800-3, and IEC 61800-5-1.