Upgrading the control systems on Siemens/Robicon Perfect Harmony and Toshiba T300MVi Medium Voltage Variable Frequency Drives is a smart, cost-effective alternative to full replacement. This approach not only extends equipment life but also improves uptime by addressing obsolete components.
What Is a Control Upgrade?
Medium Voltage VFDs are made of 5 main sections:
- Phase-shifting transformer
- Rectifier section
- DC link
- Inverter section
- Control section
Failures most commonly occur in the DC link and inverter sections, and while control section failures are less frequent, they still happen and can be addressed through modernization.
A controls upgrade generally entails replacing all the control boards, DC link electrolytic capacitors, the gate driver boards, and the keypad/HMI.
Why Upgrade Instead of Replace?
Siemens and Toshiba have the largest installed base of voltage-source Medium Voltage VFDs in North America. As older chipsets become obsolete, both companies were forced to find creative ways to keep their older generation VFDs current and supportable. Thus, they created control upgrade kits that bring legacy systems up to current standards—without the cost of buying a completely new drive.
- For Siemens/Robicon: Upgrade from NXG to NXGPro or NXGPro+ controllers. A 2000s-era VFD can be modernized to 2025 standards.
- For Toshiba: Transition from T300MVi to T300MV2 using a control upgrade kit.
The Benefits:
- Cost Savings: Up to 80% less than purchasing a new VFD
- Improved Reliability: Replaces aging components with modern equivalents
- Extended Equipment Life: Keeps your system running efficiently for years to come
Need advice in upgrading your MV VFD?
Do you need some advice in whether its beneficial to upgrade your Medium Voltage VFD? Contact us today to discuss further.