2025-04-29
The Mitsubishi FREQROL FR Series offers a broad lineup of high-performance, highly functional, and environmentally friendly frequency inverters, developed by Mitsubishi Electric Corporation. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies—such as IoT connectivity, Artificial Intelligence, and advanced motor control methods—the FR Series delivers accurate control over motor speed and torque across a wide range of industrial applications.
Frequency inverters (or variable frequency drives) are essential in applications where an AC motor’s speed must be precisely controlled, such as in pumps, fans, cranes, conveyors, hoists, compressors, and machine tools. By converting a fixed-frequency AC input into a variable frequency and voltage output, Mitsubishi FREQROL inverters allow dynamic speed and torque management according to operational demands.
Note: Without a frequency inverter, an AC motor’s speed is fixed based on its number of poles and input voltage frequency. Inverters are vital for operations requiring flexible motor speeds.
Key Selection Criteria
Choosing the right Mitsubishi FREQROL FR Series inverter for your application involves evaluating several important factors:
1. Power Requirements
The inverter’s power rating must match—or slightly exceed—the motor’s rated power. Typically, selecting an inverter with a power rating 10% higher than the motor’s ensures optimal performance without risking overload.
Example: A 0.75kW fan motor should pair with a 0.75kW or 0.825kW FR Series inverter.
Tip: Oversizing can unnecessarily increase costs and compromise control accuracy.
2. Voltage Range
The FREQROL FR Series supports a range of voltage classes:
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Single-phase 100V Class
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Single-phase 200V Class
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Three-phase 200V Class
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Three-phase 400V Class
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Three-phase 600V Class
Ensure the inverter’s voltage class matches your power supply to guarantee compatibility and avoid performance issues.
3. Frequency Range
The selected inverter must match the AC motor’s operating frequency range. Mitsubishi FR inverters offer excellent frequency stability and resolution for high-precision speed control applications.
4. Motor Type Compatibility
FREQROL FR-Series inverters are engineered to control:
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Three-phase induction motors
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Permanent Magnet (PM) synchronous motors
Always verify motor compatibility to ensure reliable operation.
5. Load Characteristics
Assess the load’s speed variation, peak torque, and duty cycle:
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Constant Torque Loads (e.g., conveyors, hoists)
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Variable Torque Loads (e.g., fans, pumps)
Select an inverter that can handle cyclic loading or high starting torque as needed.
6. Control Methods
Different FR-Series models offer multiple motor control techniques, including:
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Soft-PWM Control (software-based pulse modulation)
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V/F Control (Voltage/Frequency ratio control)
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General-Purpose Magnetic Flux Vector Control
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Advanced Magnetic Flux Vector Control
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Optimum Excitation Control
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Sensorless Vector Control
Match the control method with your application's performance needs—precision tasks demand vector control.
7. Control Accuracy
For high-speed, precision applications (like CNC tools), choose a Mitsubishi inverter known for fine control accuracy and fast response.
8. Safety Features
Choose an inverter with robust protections:
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Thermal overload protection
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Motor stall prevention
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Overvoltage/undervoltage protection
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Short-circuit protection
These safety measures enhance operational reliability and machine lifespan.
9. Communication Options
Modern FR-Series inverters support advanced networking:
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RS-485 / MODBUS RTU
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EtherNet/IP
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PROFINET
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CC-Link IE TSN
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EtherCAT
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DeviceNet
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SSCNET III / SSCNET III/H
Ensure the inverter integrates seamlessly into your existing control system architecture.
10. Peripheral Devices
When installing an FR-Series inverter, additional peripherals may be necessary:
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AC Power Supply
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EMC Filters (EMC compliance)
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Molded Case Circuit Breakers (MCCB)
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Earth Leakage Circuit Breakers (ELB)
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Magnetic Contactors (MC)
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Reactors (AC/DC) to improve power quality
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Line Noise Filters
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Radio Noise Filters
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Programmable Controllers
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Safety Relay Modules
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USB Connectors for PC communication
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Brake and Resistor Units for regenerative braking
Proper selection ensures safe and optimal operation.
Available Mitsubishi FREQROL FR-Series Inverter Models
Here’s an overview of the leading models in the FR-Series lineup:
FR-A800 Inverter
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High-performance, multifunction inverter
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Supports Ethernet (CC-Link IE TSN) communications
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Offers Real Sensorless Vector Control for superior speed response
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Compliant with Safe Torque Off (STO) safety standards (SIL3, PLe)
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Ideal for lifts, presses, winding machines, and packaging equipment
FR-A800 Plus Inverter
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Specialized for cranes, lifts, and roll-to-roll applications
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Enhances response speed, slip prevention, and monitoring features
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Provides superior motor control in specialized systems
FR-F800 Inverter
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Energy-saving optimized inverter
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Advanced Optimum Excitation Control for motor efficiency
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Supports Ethernet-based network protocols
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Designed for pumps and fan control applications
FR-E800 Inverter
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Compact, AI-enabled inverter
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Advanced predictive maintenance and AI fault diagnosis
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Supports multiple Ethernet communication standards (EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, EtherCAT)
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Functional safety certified (IEC 61508, ISO 13849-1)
FR-F700PJ Inverter
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Dual control for IPM and general-purpose motors
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Offers automatic restart, PID control, and optimum excitation control
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Ideal for HVAC systems and pumping applications
FR-CS80 Inverter
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High-performance in a compact body
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Supports soft-PWM, slip compensation, and regenerative braking
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Best suited for light manufacturing, conveyors, and food packaging machinery
FR-D700 Inverter
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Simple, eco-friendly inverter
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Spring clamp terminals for easy maintenance
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RoHS compliant with low electromagnetic noise
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Commonly used in small conveyor belts, hoists, and mixers
FR-E700 Inverter
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Robust, compact drive with high torque start-up
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Supports RS-485 communication with optional expansion to PROFIBUS, CC-Link, and others
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Designed for general-purpose machine tools and manufacturing equipment
FR-A701 Inverter
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High-performance regenerative inverter
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Built-in regenerative braking (100% continuous, 150% for 1 minute)
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Ideal for centrifuges, lifts, and winding machinery
Conclusion
The Mitsubishi FREQROL FR Series provides a versatile, powerful, and eco-friendly range of frequency inverters suited for nearly every industrial motor control application. Whether you require simple speed adjustment, regenerative braking, or predictive maintenance capabilities, the FR-Series lineup has a solution for your operational needs.
By carefully considering your motor type, load requirements, control method, and communication needs, you can select the ideal Mitsubishi FR-Series inverter to enhance performance, safety, and efficiency in your facility.
Contact PLG Automation today:
Email: sales@plgautomation.com
Phone: 800-906-9271