Low-Harmonic Drive Technology Explained
Power quality challenges, harmonic distortion, and energy loss are common issues in industrial systems, so it’s critical that engineers understand how modern drive technology addresses these issues to improve efficiency and reliability. In this episode of Evolution in Controls, host Tim Wilson sits down with Jordan Engel at Yaskawa’s Franklin, Wisconsin, facility to explore advanced drive technology and the U1000 matrix drive. The discussion takes a deep dive into low-harmonic drive design, direct AC-to-AC conversion, and full regenerative capabilities—breaking down how matrix drives differ from traditional variable frequency drives and why power quality, harmonic reduction, and energy regeneration matter in modern industrial automation applications.
While Yaskawa is known for its comprehensive range of drives, its U1000 drive stands out among its product line and other drives available on the market for its direct AC to AC conversion approach. Unlike conventional six-pulse drives that convert AC to DC and back again, matrix drives eliminate the DC bus entirely. Jordan explains how this design reduces input current harmonics to below 5%, helping protect upstream equipment, minimize heating, and maintain cleaner power across a facility.
Another key advantage of the U1000 is full, continuous regeneration. Instead of dissipating excess energy as heat through braking resistors, matrix drives are capable of returning energy back to the power grid—a capability well-suited for systems with frequent or sustained regenerative loads.
The Yaskawa U1000, while a second-generation model, is at its peak as a leader in drive technology in the market. For a full deep dive into how the U1000 manages this, be sure to listen to the full episode!
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