How to choose a 380V three-phase variable-speed drive

Three criteria are enough to guide your choice. First, the power supply: our range includes pure 380V three-phase models, as well as converters such as the Single to Three-Phase Drive for running a three-phase motor from a 230V single-phase supply. Next, the motor power to be regulated: our drives cover 0.75 kW, 1.5 kW, 2.2 kW, 4 kW and above, to be matched against the rating shown on your motor's nameplate. Finally, the type of drive required: a frequency inverter for fine regulation and a soft start, or a simple on/off starter such as the On/Off Starter 220V or 380V when you only need all or nothing control.

If you are unsure between two power ratings, send us your motor reference or a photo of its nameplate: the voltage, the power in kW and the current rating will let us point you to the right model.

Frequency inverter, starter or single to three-phase converter

The frequency inverter remains the most widely used solution in the range: it continuously adjusts motor speed, and therefore extraction airflow, to the actual needs of service. Useful for cutting noise and consumption outside peak times, while keeping full power available when the kitchen is running flat out.

The starter, such as the 2 Speed Starter + Smoke Extraction Button, suits you if you are looking for simpler control, possibly with two fixed speeds rather than continuous regulation. The Remote Control Unit and the 2 Speed Button complete the installation when the drive needs to be operated away from the motor.

Need to go from a single-phase supply to a three-phase motor? The Single to Three-Phase Drive IP65 400° performs the conversion directly, made in France, with an IP65 rating suited to exposed environments.

C4 and F400/120 ratings: two classifications not to be confused

A large part of our three-phase range is marked C4 smoke extraction rating, including the 1.5 kW, 2.2 kW and 4 kW frequency inverters as well as the 0.75 kW speed controller. On these models, a forced run function allows the motor to be driven in a smoke extraction situation, as on the 2 Speed Starter + Smoke Extraction Button.

The C4 classification is a fire rating that applies mainly to mechanical ventilation systems in communal buildings: it requires the smoke extraction system to keep running for at least 30 minutes in the event of a fire (400°C for 30 minutes). F400/120 is a separate, higher requirement, calling for 400°C resistance for 120 minutes, used in France for certain commercial kitchen smoke extraction installations. These two classifications follow different logics and durations: a component rated C4 does not meet an F400/120 requirement, and the reverse is also true.

If your project specifically requires F400/120, check the exact compatibility of the drive with your motor and your electrical supply before ordering: the two ratings are never interchangeable. The CR1 5x1.5mm fire-resistant cable completes the installation between the drive and the motor on smoke extraction circuits.

Range comparison table

Points to check before ordering

• Check the supply voltage of your electrical network: 380V three-phase or 230V single-phase, to choose between a direct three-phase drive and a single to three-phase converter.
• Compare the power in kW shown on the motor's nameplate with that of the drive, without undersizing.
• If your installation is subject to smoke extraction requirements, do not confuse C4 (30 minutes) with F400/120 (120 minutes): these two classifications meet different requirements and are never interchangeable. Check the exact requirement for your project, including with your building control body, before ordering.
• Remember the CR1 fire-resistant cable between the drive and the motor on smoke extraction circuits.
• Check whether your installation needs a remote control unit or a 2 speed button in addition to the drive.

To complete your order

For a motor running on 230V single-phase rather than three-phase, see our range of commercial kitchen hood & smoke extraction speed controllers. VentilSoGood supplies this equipment without carrying out installation: the electrical connection must be carried out by a qualified professional.