Static Induction Motor Drive Capabilities for the Petroleum Industry

The petroleum and chemical industries utilize fluid handling equipment extensively. Pumps have historically been driven by constant speed ac motors with flow control, when required. provided by valves. It has been estimated that 30 percent or more of the electrical energy used by a typical refinery is wasted as a result of the throttling effect of control valves. Electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic adjustable-speed drives in the petroleum industry have historically been applied to petrochemical pumping applications in which flow measurement and control are difficult due to extremely high viscosities. However, these drives can offer substantial economic benefits in other variable flow applications based on reduced energy and maintenance costs. The energy saving potential of adjustable-speed drives will he discussed, followed by a brief description of the operation and relative benefits of different solid-state ac drive types.