Quick decision rules (summary)
- Select on the rated motor current (A) from the nameplate, not on kW alone.
- ACS580: general purpose: standard industry, pumps, fans, normal (constant) torque.
- ACS880: for high continuous torque, heavy overload, hoisting, extruders, crushers, test benches or doubt.
- ACH580 for HVAC/ventilation; ACQ580 for water and wastewater pumps.
- Motor cable: du/dt filter from 25–50 m, strongly recommended 50–100 m; sine filter above 100 m.
- EMC: C3 for industry, C2 for stricter requirements or sensitive environments.
- At > 250 kW or > 500 A, multidrive, generator/weak grid or missing motor data: project-based selection, technical review required.
Which ABB drive do you need?
A variable frequency drive (VFD) controls the speed and torque of an electric motor. The right choice depends not only on the kW rating but above all on the rated motor current, the load type and the environment. This tool gives you an indicative direction and sends your selection to our engineers for review.
Selection based on motor, application and environment
The tool weighs motor data, application (pump, fan, conveyor, plunger pump, crusher, hoist, …), load type, supply voltage, motor cable length, EMC requirements, communication and environment. From that it recommends an ABB series, a build and relevant options.
Why the rated motor current matters more than kW alone
Drives are selected on current, not on power alone. Two motors with the same kW rating can draw different rated currents depending on voltage, poles and efficiency class. Enter the nameplate current where possible; for an existing motor we always recommend a nameplate photo.
Choosing ABB ACS580 or ACS880?
The ACS580 is a general-purpose drive for standard industrial applications, pumps and fans. We recommend the ACS880 for high continuous torque, heavy overload, hoisting, extruders, crushers, test benches or borderline cases. For HVAC there is the ACH580, for water/wastewater the ACQ580.
Options such as IP55, Profinet, EMC filter and du/dt filter
Depending on environment and installation the tool recommends options: IP55/IP66, EMC C3 or C2, du/dt or sine filter for long motor cables, Profinet/Profibus/Ethernet, control panel, brake chopper and more.
VBE Commissioning service for correct parametrising
Besides supply, Van Bodegraven Elektromotoren can also commission the drive correctly: motor data, acceleration/deceleration times, current limiting, motor protection, communication settings and application-specific parameters.
Frequently asked questions
Which ABB drive do I need?
It depends on motor current, application and load type. Pump and fan applications often land on ACS580/ACQ580/ACH580; heavy or constant-torque applications on ACS880. The tool gives an indication based on your data.
What matters more: motor power or motor current?
The rated motor current is decisive. The kW rating alone is indicative; enter the nameplate current where possible.
When do I choose an ACS580 and when an ACS880?
ACS580 for standard industrial applications, pumps and fans. ACS880 for high continuous torque, heavy overload, hoisting, extruders, crushers, test benches or borderline cases.
Do I need an EMC filter?
For industrial environments we recommend EMC C3. For stricter requirements or sensitive environments EMC C2 may be needed. On an IT grid a standard EMC filter may not be suitable.
When do I need a du/dt or sine filter?
Consider a du/dt filter for 25–50 m motor cable, strongly recommended for 50–100 m, and a sine filter or special review above 100 m. Take extra care with older motors.
Which drive do I need for a pump?
Centrifugal and water pumps often land on ACQ580 or ACS580. Load type and actual motor current determine the final selection.
Which one for a plunger or high-pressure pump?
Constant torque with possibly pulsating behaviour. Check pressureless vs. against-pressure start; with against-pressure start or no bypass we advise a heavier selection (ACS880).
Can Van Bodegraven also commission the drive?
Yes: with the VBE Commissioning service we parametrise the drive and tune it to motor, application, ramp times, protections and communication settings.
Can I use my existing motor with a drive?
Often yes, provided it is suitable for inverter duty and has good motor insulation. With older motors or long cables a du/dt filter may be needed.
Is the result final?
No, it is indicative only. The final selection is reviewed by Van Bodegraven or ABB before you order.
Request your selection without obligation
Fill in the tool and send your selection to Van Bodegraven Elektromotoren in one click. We review the selection and help with the right build and commissioning.