230V Single-Phase VFDs – INVT GD20-EU Series

---

230V Selection Guide & Specifications

Technical Note: In Switzerland, 230V VFDs are primarily used to run 3-phase motors on a single-phase grid. Always ensure your motor is wired in Delta for 230V operation.

1. Model Selection Table

Match your motor power to the corresponding GD20-EU model. All models listed below are Single-Phase 230V Input and Three-Phase 230V Output.

Motor Power (kW)	Recommended INVT Model	Rated Current (A)	Input Phase
0.37 kW	GD20-0R4G-S2-EU	2.5 A	1-Phase 230V
0.75 kW	GD20-0R7G-S2-EU	4.2 A	1-Phase 230V
1.5 kW	GD20-1R5G-S2-EU	7.5 A	1-Phase 230V
2.2 kW	GD20-2R2G-S2-EU	10 A	1-Phase 230V

2. Critical Sizing Rule: Current vs. Power

While kW is a general guide, Rated Amperage (A) is the only safe way to size a VFD.

• The Rule: The VFD’s rated output current must be equal to or higher than the motor’s nameplate current.

• Overload Capacity: The GD20-EU series provides 150% overload for 60 seconds. If your application requires high starting torque (e.g., a loaded conveyor or compressor), we recommend selecting one power size higher to provide a thermal margin.

3. Input & Output Requirements

• Input: Standard Swiss 230V Single-Phase (L, N, PE).

• Output: 230V Three-Phase (U, V, W).

• Constraint: These drives cannot be used to run 400V Star-connected motors at full power, and they are not suitable for high-inertia industrial loads that exceed the 2.2 kW range.

4. Safety & Compliance Features

For building automation and workshop safety, every 230V GD20-EU drive includes:

• STO (Safe Torque Off): SIL2 / PL d certified for emergency stop integration.

• EMC Filter: Optional C3 filters to reduce electrical noise in residential or commercial environments.

• Braking Chopper: Integrated as standard for rapid deceleration of small loads.

---

230V Application Engineering & Case Studies

Engineering Note: For 230V applications, the challenge is often high starting torque on a limited single-phase supply. The INVT GD20-EU series is optimized to handle these peaks while maintaining high energy efficiency.

1. Pumping & Irrigation (Water, Heating, Boosters)

• The Solution: Use Vector Control Mode for stable pressure even at low flow rates.

• Expert Configuration: * Set acceleration time to 10–30 seconds to prevent hydraulic “water hammer.”

  • Define a minimum frequency of 15–20 Hz to protect the pump from cavitation and overheating.

• Energy Gain: In Swiss domestic or agricultural pumping, reducing speed by just 20% can cut your electricity costs by nearly 50%.

2. HVAC & Ventilation (Fans, Air Extractors)

• The Solution: Use V/F Control for maximum energy savings on centrifugal loads.

• Expert Configuration: * Enable “Sleep Mode” for automated building control.

  • EMC Requirement: In commercial buildings (offices/hospitals), always use models with Integrated EMC filters to avoid interference with sensitive building electronics.

• Maintenance Tip: Soft ramps (15–40s) significantly reduce mechanical stress on fan belts and bearings.

3. Workshops & Light Machinery (Conveyors, Lathes, Tools)

• The Solution: Vector control with High Starting Torque Boost.

• Expert Configuration: * For conveyors, select one power size higher than the motor rating (e.g., use a 1.5kW VFD for a 1.1kW motor) to handle the high inertia of a loaded belt.

  • Utilize the Integrated Braking Chopper for rapid, controlled stops in workshop environments.

• Safety Tip: Use the built-in STO (Safe Torque Off) terminal for emergency stop circuits to meet Swiss machinery safety regulations.

4. Common “Field” Mistakes to Avoid

Based on our commissioning experience in the Swiss market, avoid these frequent errors:

• The kW Trap: Never size a VFD exactly to the motor kW without checking the Rated Amperage. Always allow for a 10-15% margin.

• Heat Management: 230V drives are often installed in small, poorly ventilated cabinets. Ensure a minimum clearance of 50mm above and below the drive.

• Wiring Error: Ensure the motor is wired in Delta (230V) and not Star (400V), otherwise the motor will lack torque and trigger an overcurrent trip.

---

Why Longvista for 230V Solutions?

Your Partner for Single-Phase Projects: At Longvista, we specialize in helping Swiss customers bridge the gap between standard 230V power and high-performance 3-phase motor control.

1. Specialized Swiss Inventory

We know that when a workshop motor or a building’s circulation pump fails, time is money.

• Stocked in Caslano: We maintain a dedicated inventory of the GD20-EU 230V series (0.4kW to 2.2kW) for immediate dispatch.

• Fast Swiss Delivery: Most orders are delivered within 24–48 hours, avoiding the customs delays and high shipping costs of ordering from abroad.

2. Expert Configuration Support

Based on our experience, setting up a 230V single-phase to 3-phase system can be tricky for first-time users (e.g., Delta wiring).

• Pre-Sales Sizing: Send us your motor nameplate, and we will tell you exactly which drive and protection components you need.

• Post-Sales Setup: We provide phone support to help you navigate parameter settings like acceleration ramps, torque boost, and STO safety wiring.

3. High-Quality “S2” EU-Series

We exclusively supply the GD20-S2-EU version. Unlike generic models found on global marketplaces, our units are:

• EMC Ready: Designed to operate without disrupting nearby building electronics or home appliances.

• Built to Last: Engineered for the high stability required by European grid standards and industrial duty cycles.

4. Full Local Warranty

Buying from Longvista means you have a local Swiss point of contact for warranty and service. If you encounter a technical issue, you don’t have to send your unit back to another country; we handle everything from our office in Ticino.

---

Frequently Asked Questions – 230V Variable Frequency Drives

Q1: Can a 230V VFD run a three-phase motor on standard Swiss household power?

A: Yes. The INVT GD20-EU 230V series is specifically designed to take single-phase 230V input and deliver three-phase output. This allows you to run professional industrial motors in locations where only a standard 230V socket is available.

Note: Ensure your motor is wired in Delta ($\Delta$) configuration.

 

Q2: Is an EMC filter necessary for 230V drives in building automation?

A: Yes. In Swiss residential or commercial HVAC environments, EMC filters are essential to prevent electrical noise from interfering with other sensitive electronics. All our 230V GD20-EU models come with integrated filters to ensure compliance with local building standards.

Q3: Can I use a 230V VFD for constant pressure control in pumping systems?

A: Absolutely. By connecting a pressure sensor to the GD20-EU’s analog inputs, you can maintain constant water pressure, reduce pump cycling, and significantly extend the life of your plumbing infrastructure.

Q4: What happens if I use a 230V VFD on a 400V rated motor?

A: If a 400V motor is wired in Star ($Y$), it will only receive 230V and will lack the torque to perform under load. To use a 400V motor with a 230V VFD, the motor must be capable of being re-wired to Delta ($\Delta$) 230V (check the motor nameplate).

Q5: Does Longvista provide support for initial parameter configuration?

A: Yes. We offer technical guidance for sizing and initial setup for all Swiss customers. We can help you configure acceleration ramps, minimum frequencies, and safety parameters for your specific application.

---

Technical  Downloads

• [PDF] INVT GD20-EU Catalog(EN)-V2.1 and GD20-EU VFD Manual_V2.3: Full parameter list and wiring diagrams for 0.4kW – 2.2kW.

---

For a full overview of our portfolio, visit the main Variable Frequency Drives category.