Essentially, the fan speed controller is responsible for changing the voltage that is supplied to the device. If we talk about engines, the above device is responsible for switching the winding. In this case, the frequency of the current can fluctuate significantly.
It is thanks to fan regulators that electrical appliances can serve the owner for many years. This happens by reducing wear on important components of the unit. Additionally, it is possible to reduce electricity consumption. In turn, at higher speeds the fan is much quieter.
Thyristor fan controllers
Thyristor regulator fan speed (diagram shown below) can only be set on single-phase equipment. Features include: reliable system protection. Thanks to it, the fan prevents overheating of important components. As a result, the speed can be controlled by changing the current.
The power supply for the device is a network with a voltage of 220 V. In this case, the average frequency fluctuates around 55 Hz. The maximum voltage deviation allowed is 15%. Many models of thyristor regulators are equipped with special sensors. The most common are devices labeled "RTS". They can be used at temperatures from -50 to +50 degrees. The fan speed controller is quite easy to install. At the same time, it has a rotation speed indicator.
Features of frequency regulators
As a rule, a fan speed controller can handle very high voltage. In this case, the rotation speed changes due to changes in current strength. More often this type can be found on various air conditioning systems. Additionally, frequency controllers are ideal for devices involved in air ventilation. In general, the above devices look quite simple.
Characteristics of frequency regulators
They are powered from a network with a voltage of 220 V. The output power of the fan should be no more than 500 W. The maximum resistance of the regulator is on average 300 kOhm, and the system control signal can be perceived up to 10 V. The regulator unit itself consumes 3 V power.
The standard set of the device consists of a cable and a screw-type terminal block. The device has fuses with a current strength of at least 3 A. The degree of protection in many models is set to IP21 class. A frequency controller for fan rotation speed can be used at temperatures from -10 to +30 degrees.
Transformer Fan Controllers
The 12V transformer fan speed controller is used exclusively for powerful single-phase or three-phase motors. Direct control of revolutions is carried out in a stepwise manner. At the same time, it is possible to establish automatic coordination. Temperature sensors are installed in many models.
Additionally, it is possible to select transformer fan controllers with humidity indicators. Moreover, their power can be changed using a timer. These devices are secured with screws. The device can be equipped with special clamps for the rigidity of the connection. Terminals are available as input contacts. Power cables are included as standard.
The resistance of the transformer regulator is 400 kOhm. In this case, the control signal is perceived up to 4 V. Additionally, the high load of the relay output should be noted. On average, the device fluctuates around 12 V. In general, these devices are quite bulky compared to fan frequency controllers and more expensive ones.
Triac types of regulators
The triac fan speed controller is the most complex device from all the types listed above. It is used to control several devices at once. At the same time, the engines on them can be installed permanently, as well as alternating current. The speed change itself is quite smooth.
It is also important to note that the voltage range is very wide. Three-phase models of regulators stand out with particular accuracy. To reduce the operation of the device, a special smoothing capacitor is provided in the mechanism. The installation of the triac regulator may be different. Flush mounting is considered the most common, but many manufacturers are able to offer mounts for external fixation of the device.
Operating principle of a triac regulator
The microprocessor unit processes absolutely all data. In turn, there is a sensor to transmit the signal to the triac fan speed controller. It is connected through the inlet on the In addition, the sensor monitors the temperature of the device during operation. In this case, the resistance of the block is constantly adjusted.
To eliminate interference that appears during operation, it can also dampen pulse surges in the system. The fan speed control resistor is responsible for converting the current. As a result, when the temperature rises sharply, the sensor signals the need to reduce the voltage. Further, much depends on the specified settings of the triac regulator. Thus, by means of programming it is possible to change the basic quantities.
Installation of a triac regulator
To install a 220V fan speed controller, you must completely de-energize the network. Next, it is important to remove the main panel, which is located at the front of the device. Only then can the unit cover be removed. The next step is to install a temperature sensor in the inlet. To connect the power system, you should familiarize yourself with the device diagram.
The direct connection to the fan motor is made using insulated stranded wires. Then the air condenser, which is located next to the temperature sensor, turns on. It is very important to check the main socket of the device. For good communication there should be no contamination there. Otherwise, the signal will not reach the microprocessor unit. To clean the connector efficiently, specialists use copper oxide removers.
After securing the top cover, the unprotected area is lubricated with paste for good thermal conductivity. As a rule, the product is used exclusively on a non-drying basis. The side plates of the triac regulator are mounted on clamps. They are also glued on top for thermal insulation. The width of the strip should not be less than 10 mm. After this, the 220V fan speed controller can be mounted on the panel. It is important to pay attention to the wiring and not pinch it while fixing the device. The last installation step is to connect the power supply. After checking the connector for strength, you need to do a test connection.
Models for fans with asynchronous motors
A distinctive feature of many models is smooth speed control. In this case, fans should have a rated current of no more than 6 A, and the average frequency should be around 45 Hz. The power source of the regulators is a network with a voltage of 230 V. The degree of protection they have is class "IP 54". A special controller is installed to program the system.
Thanks to the above regulators, the engine starts quite smoothly. At the same time, its shaft rotates at a constant frequency. Current is installed in many models. The minimum speed can be set by the controller.
This function is typical for regulators with VM and VX class potentiometers. The speed drop is regulated by the regulator board, and you can see its operation using LED sensors. To stabilize the voltage on the motor winding there is a microcontroller. By eliminating phase skipping, high energy savings can be achieved.
Heater regulators
The heater fan speed control can significantly reduce the noise from the electric motor. At the same time, it provides a convenient As a result, you can significantly reduce electricity consumption.
Additionally, wear of parts is significantly reduced by adjusting the limiting frequency. The pulse width modulator is responsible for this in the system. The operating current of the regulator fluctuates around 0.7 A. Maximum output power is approximately 550 W. The input resistance of regulators of this class is maintained at 200 kOhm. In this case, the control signal is perceived at a level of 8 V. The cable, as a rule, is supplied with a shielded type.
The load on average is 3 A. In turn, the power consumption of the device is in the range from 4 to 8 V. The fuses in regulators for air conditioning systems are installed in the FUSE class, and they can pass the maximum current at the level of 5 A. They have a degree of protection class "IP21". Almost all models are attached to the air conditioning system exclusively externally - using screws. In general, they are quite compact and weigh extremely little.
A fan is one of the unnoticeable but extremely important devices that help create favorable conditions for work, relaxation and simply having a good time.
Without it, computers, refrigerators, air conditioners and other equipment will not be able to function. To ensure the most efficient operation of various devices, use a fan speed controller.
From our material you will learn about what types of regulators there are and the features of their operation. We will also tell you how to assemble the device yourself and what you will need for this.
Purpose of the device for speed control
When an air conditioner or fan constantly operates at the maximum power provided by the manufacturer, this adversely affects its service life. Some parts simply cannot withstand such a rhythm and quickly break.
A regulator is used to slow down the fan speed. Moreover, there are models that serve both one and several channels simultaneously. For example, 6 channel
Also, often in refrigeration units, computers and other equipment, certain elements overheat during operation. To prevent them from melting, the manufacturer has provided for their cooling by running fans.
But not all tasks performed require maximum speed fan/cooler movement. When working on a computer in an office environment or maintaining a constant temperature in a refrigeration unit, the load is significantly less than when performing complex mathematical calculations or freezing, respectively. A fan that does not have a regulator will rotate at the same speed.
Manufacturers offer various models of regulators that you can install yourself using the recommendations from the instructions
The accumulation of a large number of powerful equipment operating in one room can create noise at a level of 50 decibels or more due to simultaneously operating fans at maximum speed.
It is difficult for a person to work in such an atmosphere; he gets tired quickly. Therefore, it is advisable to use devices that can reduce the fan noise level not only in production workshops, but also in office premises.
In addition to overheating individual parts and reducing noise levels, regulators allow rational use of equipment, reducing and increasing, if necessary, the speed of rotation of the equipment blades. For example, in climate control systems used in many public places and industrial premises.
One of the important parts of smart rooms are speed controllers. Their operation is ensured by indicators of temperature, humidity, and pressure sensors. Fans used to mix the air in a gym, production workshop or office room help save money spent on heating.
Powerful ventilation systems use transformer speed controllers. Their main disadvantage is their high cost.
This occurs due to the uniform distribution of heated air circulating in the room. Fans force the upper warm layers down, mixing them with the cooler lower layers. After all, for human comfort it is important that there is warmth in the lower part of the room, and not near the ceiling. Regulators in such systems monitor the speed of rotation, slowing down and accelerating the speed of the blades.
Main types of regulators
Fan speed controllers are in demand. The market is replete with various offers and the average user who is not familiar with the features of devices can easily get lost among the various offers.
The regulator should be selected taking into account the power of the equipment to which it will be connected
Regulators differ in their operating principle.
The following types of devices are distinguished:
- thyristor;
- triac;
- frequency;
- transformer
First type devices is used to adjust the speed of single-phase devices that have overheating protection. The speed change occurs due to the influence of the regulator on the power of the supplied voltage.
Second type is a variety thyristor devices. The regulator can simultaneously control DC and AC devices. Characterized by the ability to smoothly decrease/increase the speed of rotation at a fan voltage of up to 220 V.
To control the speed of 2 or more fans, you can use a 5-channel controller
Third type devices changes the frequency of the supplied voltage. The main task is to obtain a supply voltage in the range of 0-480 V. The controllers are used for three-phase equipment in room ventilation systems and in powerful air conditioners.
Transformer controllers can operate with single- and three-phase current. They change the output voltage, regulating the fan and protecting the device from overheating. Can be used in automatic mode to regulate the speed of several powerful fans, taking into account the indicators of pressure, temperature, humidity and other sensors.
Transformer regulators are reliable. They are able to work in complex systems, adjusting fan speed without constant user intervention
Most often, triac regulators are used in everyday life. They are classified as XGE type. You can find many offers from different manufacturers– they are compact and reliable. Moreover, the price range will also be very wide.
Transformer devices are quite expensive - depending on additional features, they can cost $700 or more. They belong to the RGE type regulators and are capable of regulating the speed of very powerful fans used in industry.
Features of using devices
Fan speed controllers are used in industrial equipment, in office premises, gyms, cafes, and other public places. You can also often find such controllers in climate control systems for home use.
To use the speed changer, simply connect it to the fan
Ventilation systems used in fitness centers, as well as in office premises, most often contain a rotation speed regulator. Moreover, this is not a simple cheap option, but an expensive transformer device capable of regulating the rotation speed of powerful devices.
Image gallery
Depending on the design features controllers are:
- mechanical control;
- automatic.
Autotransformer regulators are most often used in complex systems, where the command to action is provided by indicators obtained from a temperature, pressure, motion, humidity or photosensor. By slowing down the rotation speed, the devices reduce energy consumption.
Mechanically controlled regulators are connected according to the instructions and diagram. They can replace the usual switch by mounting the controller into the wall
Mechanical control of the controllers is carried out manually - the device contains a wheel that allows you to smoothly or stepwise change the rotation speed. This can often be found in triac models.
Among the regulators used to optimize the operation of industrial and household equipment, one can note such devices as Vents, SeBeP, Vortice, EnergySaver, Delta t°, Telenordik and others.
The most common option for using control equipment in a domestic environment is a computer and laptop. This is where the regulator is most often used, controlling and changing the speed of the cooler. Due to this device, the equipment creates significantly less noise during operation.
For computers, you can choose the most suitable option based on personal preferences - there are a huge number of offers on the market
Cooler controllers come in both simple and with additional capabilities. These can be models with backlight, with a temperature sensor, with an alert signal, with an emergency shutdown, etc.
By appearance There are regulators with and without display. The first option is more expensive, and the second is cheaper. This device is often called a reobas.
Manufacturers offer models that control the operation of one or more fans. Good reviews They use cooler speed controllers from companies such as Scythe, NZXT, Reeven, AeroCool, Aqua Computer, Strike-X Advance Black, Akasa Fan Controller, Cooler Master, Innovatek, Gelid, Lian Li, etc.
A cooler regulator that does not have a display costs much less. But additional functions he doesn't have
Using a controller in computer operation significantly reduces the noise level, which has a positive effect on the user’s well-being and mood - nothing buzzes or roars. Also, which is very important, it helps to avoid overheating of the equipment itself, thereby extending its service life.
Controller connection rules
To connect the fan speed controller, you can use the services of specialists or try to do it yourself. There are no fundamental features in connection - it is quite possible to cope with such a task on your own.
Depending on the design features and type of equipment being serviced, controllers can be installed:
- on the wall as an overhead socket;
- inside the wall;
- inside the equipment housing;
- in a special cabinet that controls smart devices at home. This is usually a terminal block;
- connect to the computer.
To connect the regulator yourself, you must first carefully read the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Such a document usually comes with the device and contains useful recommendations both in terms of connection, use and maintenance.
Wall-mounted and in-wall models must be secured to the wall with screws and dowels. Components are most often supplied by the manufacturer along with the main device. Also in the instructions for the regulator you can see a diagram of its connection. This will greatly facilitate further work on its correct installation.
The speed controller is connected to the cable supplying the fan, according to the manufacturer's diagram. The main goal is to cut the phase, neutral and ground wires and connect the wires to the input and output terminal blocks, following the recommendations. In the case where the fan has its own separate switch, it will have to be replaced with a regulator, dismantling the first one as it is unnecessary.
Do not forget that it must correspond to the maximum voltage current of the connected device.
It is important to find the inlet and outlet openings on the connected device for connecting the power cable of the appropriate cross-section. The diagram supplied by the manufacturer will help with this.
If you are going to connect the controller to a PC, then you first need to find out what the maximum permissible temperature of the individual components of the equipment is. Otherwise, you can permanently lose your computer, whose important parts will overheat and burn out - the processor, motherboard, graphics card and others.
The model of the selected reobass also has instructions and connection recommendations from the manufacturer. It is important to adhere to the diagrams given on its pages when self-installation device.
If there is a need to connect more than 1 fan, then you can buy a multi-channel rheobass
There are regulators and devices built into the housing that are purchased separately. To connect them correctly, you should follow the instructions.
For example, an integrated controller has on/off buttons on the outside of the system unit. The wires coming from the regulator are connected to the cooler wires. Depending on the model, the rheobass can control the speed of 2, 4 or more fans in parallel.
For computer fans and others used at home, you can make a regulator yourself
A separate regulator for the cooler is installed in a 3.5 or 5.25-inch bay. Its wires are also connected to coolers, and additional sensors, if included, are attached to the corresponding components of the system unit, the condition of which they will monitor.
Assembling the device yourself
You can assemble the fan speed controller yourself. To do this you will need the simplest components, a soldering iron and some free time.
To make your own controller, you can use various components, choosing the most suitable option for yourself.
So, to make a simple controller you need to take:
- resistor;
- variable resistor;
- transistor.
The base of the transistor must be soldered to the central contact of the variable resistor, and the collector to its extreme terminal. To the other edge of the variable resistor you need to solder a resistor with a resistance of 1 kOhm. The second terminal of the resistor should be soldered to the emitter of the transistor.
The manufacturing scheme of a regulator consisting of 3 elements is the simplest and safest
Now all that remains is to solder the input voltage wire to the collector of the transistor, which is already connected to the extreme terminal of the variable resistor, and the “positive” output to its emitter.
To test your homemade product in action, you will need any working fan. To evaluate a homemade reobass, you will need to connect the wire coming from the emitter to the fan wire with the “+” sign. The homemade output voltage wire coming from the collector is connected to the power supply.
Having finished assembling a homemade device for adjusting speed, be sure to check it in operation
The wire with the “–” sign is connected directly, bypassing the homemade regulator. Now all that remains is to check the soldered device in action.
To decrease/increase the speed of rotation of the cooler blades, you need to turn the variable resistor wheel and observe the change in the number of revolutions.
This homemade device safe for use, because the wire with the “–” sign goes straight. Therefore, the fan is not afraid if something suddenly shorts in the soldered regulator.
Such a controller can be used to adjust cooler speed, and others.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
Video about the features of connecting and using a fan speed controller from the Vents company:
Video information on creating a fan speed controller:
Review of electronic autotransformer fan speed controller:
Having familiarized yourself with the types of fan speed controllers and the rules for connecting them, you can choose the most suitable one. best option, able to satisfy the user's needs. If you wish, you can entrust installation issues to specialists. If you want to test your strength, then a simple device is easy to assemble yourself.
Speed controllers are used to control the speed of rotation of fans and the flow of air masses created by these fans.
They are specialized for manual control of the rotation speed of electric motors of fan units. Regulators can also change the direction of air flow.
Speed regulators are mandatory elements of fan operation in common system indoor air conditioning and ventilation. With their help, you can change - decreasing or increasing, the flow of air masses, change its intensity, direction, leading them to maximum comfortable conditions.
According to phase design, speed controllers are divided into single-phase and three-phase.
According to the principle of operation, speed controllers are divided into:
Seven-volter
Triac regulators are used to smoothly change the rotation speed of single-phase asynchronous motors. The operation of the regulator is based on changing the output voltage using a triac.
Control is carried out from the minimum expected voltage (with stable fan rotation) to 220 V.
The input circuit of the regulator has a fuse, which serves as protection against overheating. In order to reduce engine noise at low rotation speeds, an additional smoothing capacitor is installed.
Application
The regulator is used in ventilation and air conditioning systems to smoothly regulate the speed of rotation of a 220 V fan motor. For powerful fans, step-controlled rotation speed regulators are used - transformer ones.
Transformer type regulators
Such frequency converters provide the function of safe operation of a fan motor of any power and control the speed by changing the frequency of the voltage supplied to the frequency converters.
This method of controlling the ventilation system guarantees smooth control of fan speed over a wide range with increased rigidity of mechanical characteristics.
At the same time, control of the rotation speed does not cause an increase in the slip values of the asynchronous motor, therefore power indicators with such control are reduced to a minimum.
Transformer motor speed controller STR-1 changes the speed by changing the supplied voltage. The voltage is generated using an autotransformer.
The regulator can only be combined with those motors whose speed can be changed by the applied voltage. When choosing a transformer, it is important to know maximum current, consumed by the engine.
Speed controllerssingle-phase asynchronous motorsMTY-1.5 ON and MTY-2.5 are designed to smoothly change the fan speed by changing the operating voltage at the output using a thyristor. It is possible to control several motors if the total current does not exceed the permissible value of 1.5 A for the MTY-1.5 device and 2.5 A for the MTY-2.5 device. MTY speed controller regulates from the minimum possible voltage value 0 V to 220 V. The motor controlled by MTY must have built-in overheating protection. Also MTY speed controller equipped with 220V outputs (L1) for controlling damper drives, electric heaters and others external devices. These devices are supplied for wall mounting. At the same time, MTY 1.5 ON is supplied in a housing with a degree of protection IP54, and MTY 2.5 - with a degree of protection IP44.
When choosing the type of speed controller, it is necessary to take into account the starting current values. Fans to be used with such controllers require built-in motor overheating protection and must allow speed control by a thyristor controller (by varying the supply voltage).
Thyristor speed controllers MTY cost only 2,030 rubles, and they are always kept in stock on our. MTY-1.5 are used to control the following single-phase (220V) fans:
Fan controller connection
Fan speed regulator 220V. Sometimes in everyday life it is necessary to have a fan with adjustable speed. To do this, you need to purchase a fan regulator specifically designed to change the speed of the fan motor. You should know that the engine requires high-quality electrical power; large values the magnitude of the voltage drop or overload (more than 10%). For example, it is impossible to use a dimmer designed to regulate the brightness of lighting precisely because of a violation of the quality of the power supply.
Fan regulator and how to use it
In industry, frequency converters are used to change the number of revolutions, allowing the fan speed to be reduced and increased. Due to the high cost of this equipment It cannot be used in everyday life. In production, it is also possible to use a multi-speed motor that has several leads to regulate the speed of the fan, resulting from a combination, for example, by connecting a double star ( high revs) or triangle (low speed). A fan regulator intended for domestic use can only reduce engine speed.
It is possible to connect to several motors if the rated current of all fans does not exceed the regulator’s rating data. It is also necessary to take into account that starting current several times higher than the operating current.
The most common control method is a triac controller of the fan itself, with which you can change the engine speed from zero to maximum. The thyristor regulator is used in motors with a built-in thermistor (protection against overheating), the disadvantages of which include power elements that become very hot when the fan is running. When the engine is operated using the above regulators, jerking, noise and engine crackling are typical. When using a triac regulator, a constant voltage is applied to the motor.
This type of regulator is quite easy to connect: just connect the phase and neutral, and, if necessary, the ground wire.
There is also a transistor regulator for the voltage fan. In another way they are called electronic autotransformers. The adjustment is carried out on the basis of PWM (pulse width modulation), field-effect or bipolar transistors are used in the output stage. The distance between the engine and the regulator should not exceed 5 m, but at low speeds there will be no fan noise.
