18.5 kW normal duty, 15 kW heavy duty — which load class fits your motor
The ATV930D18N4 is a 380-480 V 3-phase variable speed drive from the Altivar Process ATV900 series, rated 18.5 kW for normal duty applications and 15.0 kW for heavy duty. The nominal output current is 39.2 A at 4 kHz carrier frequency for normal duty, derating to 31.7 A at 4 kHz for heavy duty — the heavy duty figure governs when the driven load demands 150% overload capability for 60 seconds, typical for conveyors, crushers, or extruders. The drive includes a braking chopper as standard, so dynamic braking with an external resistor is ready without an add-on module. The integrated EMC filter meets conducted emission limits for most industrial environments, with an optional EMC plate for higher attenuation.
Fieldbus fit and I/O expansion — what connects where
Communication ports include Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP, and Modbus serial on the base unit. Three option slots (A, B, C) accept fieldbus modules for Profibus DP V1, PROFINET, DeviceNet, EtherCAT, CANopen (RJ45 or SUB-D 9 or screw terminals), or Ethernet Powerlink — the slot assignment follows the drive's option guide, so confirm the module order code against the slot letter. The control terminal block accepts 0.5-1.5 mm² (AWG 20-16) wire. The external supply for digital inputs is 24 V DC (19-30 V range), with an internal 24 V DC supply for digital inputs and STO (21-27 V). A 10.5 V DC reference supply drives a 1-10 kOhm potentiometer for speed reference.
Environmental limits and mounting constraints
The drive is rated IP21 with UL Type 1 enclosure — suitable for indoor, dry locations where dripping water is not present. Wall-mount orientation is vertical within ±10 degrees. Operating altitude is 1000-4800 m with a 1% current derating per 100 m above 1000 m. Ambient relative humidity range is 5-95% non-condensing per IEC 60068-2-3. Vibration resistance is 1.5 mm peak-to-peak at 2-13 Hz and 1 gn at 13-200 Hz per IEC 60068-2-6. Shock resistance is 15 gn for 11 ms per IEC 60068-2-27.
Standards compliance and lifecycle status
Total harmonic current distortion (THDI) is below 48% from 80-100% load per IEC 61000-3-12. The noise level is 59.5 dB — relevant for installation near personnel workstations.
