About Invertek Optidrive E3 Variable Frequency Drives
The Invertek Optidrive E3 is a general-purpose variable frequency drive designed for straightforward installation, fast commissioning, and reliable motor control across common industrial, pump, and fan applications. The E3 range is focused on ease of use, with a compact design, simple wiring, intuitive keypad control, and a small set of basic parameters for rapid setup.
Optidrive E3 drives are commonly used where a practical, cost-effective VFD is needed for lower-power motor control. The range supports precise control for standard induction motors as well as higher-efficiency motor types, including permanent magnet, brushless DC, and synchronous reluctance motors. The brochure specifically positions the E3 as a general-purpose drive for easy control of multiple motor types, with simple commissioning and application macro functions for industrial, pump, and fan use. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Key Optidrive E3 Capabilities
- Available in models from 0.37 kW to 37 kW / 0.5 HP to 50 HP.
- Supports 110–480V single phase and three phase input ranges, depending on model.
- Provides 150% overload capacity for 60 seconds, with short-duration overload capability for demanding starts.
- Available in IP20 panel-mount and IP66 enclosed versions for direct machine mounting or protected environments.
- Includes built-in PI control, internal EMC filter options, and brake chopper functionality on supported models.
- Uses application macros to quickly configure the drive for Industrial, Pump, or Fan operation.
- Includes Modbus RTU and CANopen communication capability as standard on the E3 platform.
- Supports OptiTools Studio and Optistick Smart for parameter backup, cloning, and commissioning workflows.
Common Applications for Optidrive E3 Drives
Optidrive E3 drives are used across low-power and general-purpose applications including conveyors, mixers, treadmills, dosing pumps, borehole pumps, transfer pumps, swimming pools, spas, fountains, air handling units, ventilation fans, circulating fans, air curtains, and kitchen extract systems. The application macro structure helps simplify setup by matching the drive behavior to the type of load being controlled. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
For panel installations, IP20 E3 models provide a compact and robust solution with DIN rail and keyhole mounting options. For direct machine mounting or harsher environments, IP66 models provide outdoor-rated, dust-tight, washdown-ready enclosures with optional local controls such as speed potentiometer, forward/off/reverse switch, and lockable mains disconnect depending on model configuration. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Choosing the Correct Optidrive E3 Model
When selecting an Optidrive E3 drive, start with the motor power rating, input voltage, supply phase, enclosure type, EMC filter requirement, and brake transistor requirement. Applications with washdown, dust, or direct machine mounting requirements may call for an IP66 model, while cabinet-based installations may be better suited to IP20 models.
Piedmont Technical Sales is an authorized Invertek distributor. If you are matching an existing drive, selecting a replacement, or confirming compatibility with a motor or application, contact us for help choosing the correct Optidrive E3 model and accessories.
