Electronic Gurus. Variable Frequency Drivers?

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Jgray152

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Dec 23, 2006
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I have been thinking for a while that I could possible speed up the pump in my Fx5 for a bit more output by increasing the AC frequency. I know there are a lot of VFDs out there that increase/decrease frequency up to the 60 hz limit we see at the outlet.

Are we able to increase the frequency beyond 60 hz in a 120v application? If so, where can I get these VFDs?

I have done some research but I am still a bit limited in my understanding.

I don't know and kinda doubt that the Fx5's pump is approved for such a device but it would be interesting.

Increasing the frequency will probubly increase the speed of the internal timer and thus decrease the 2 minute and 24 hour window to something less.
 
Sounds like a good way to wear out the pump faster.
 
Sounds like a good way to wear out the pump faster.
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It could I suppose, but we are talking about a magnetic pump with no brushes, so I am wondering what could wear out. One thing that I could see as a possibility, is the pump heating up more, but I am just assuming that.
 
now you got me wondering if i could hook a tesla turbine up to a pump how that would work :naughty:
 
Most of the VFDs that I work with are peaked at 60hz. I'm sure it can be done, but I doubt if it's cost effective.
 
I wouldn't risk it.
 
It would be easier and cheaper to just buy another FX5 and just run 2 on your tank than to try and make your first one faster. You need to look at the efficiency of speeding it up as well. You have to account for your maximum intake and output as well which can lead to an internal heating issue and make more problems than anything.
 
It would be easier and cheaper to just buy another FX5 and just run 2 on your tank than to try and make your first one faster. You need to look at the efficiency of speeding it up as well. You have to account for your maximum intake and output as well which can lead to an internal heating issue and make more problems than anything.
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When I first had the idea, I thought that maybe I could swing down to radioshack and pick something up, but then I did some research and found prices, like you say.

All I was looking to do was speed the shaft up another 100-300 rpm or so. I don't know how many polls the motor has but the motor spins pretty slow already, I think less then 1500. If it had 4 poles at 60 hz it would be 900 rpm which seems about right. So speeding it up to 1100 RPM would mean I would need to be at 73 hz. Doesn't seem like much but it is 13 cycles of alternating current more than 60hz.

The Maximum intake is something to note. The intake to the impeller IS smaller than the impeller's intake.

Vfd's for that job would cost you more than a new fx5 and you would overheat your pump motor with continuos use at a higher frequency
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I wondder how much more heat it can take. lol :)
 
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