Riding the reflected wave-IGBT drive technology demands new motor and cable considerations

Drive manufacturer migration to insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) output devices demands a more careful selection of motors and load cables. IGBT drives have faster output voltage risetimes which have increased the dielectric voltage stress placed on the motor. Semiconductor risetime now has a greater influence on motor transient voltages, emphasizing the need to understand the reflected wave phenomenon and its system effects on both motors and cables. Issues and solutions relative to motor selection, cable selection, and installation are outlined and discussed. Potential problems and solutions not commonly known even among experienced drive users are presented.