What is an inverter motor in a washing machine? Surely many users asked this question when choosing a washing machine. Most of us know only superficial information, for example, that an inverter motor is more reliable and more durable. But what if this is not so? To understand the advantages of inverter motors and to get acquainted with other important aspects of this issue, we recommend reading today's article.
Content
Inverter motor in the washer: why is it needed and what is it?
Inverter washing machine is the latest development of modern manufacturers. More recently, this type of motor was used exclusively in air cooling systems and microwave ovens. With the filing of Japanese and Korean developers who represent washing machines LG and other brands, this technology has acquired modern units designed for washing clothes.
But still, what's the use of him? Firstly, this innovation made it possible to improve modern washing machines, making them more practical and durable. Secondly, the technical characteristics of this engine are much better compared to the standard.
Design features
A washing machine with an inverter engine is capable of converting alternating current to direct current - this is the main, but not the only feature of this unit. We are sure that for most people this information is not very clear, to say the least. In other words, this motor controls the current of the desired frequency, so that it is possible to more accurately control the frequency and speed of rotation of the drum.
There are also differences in the design features of this engine, in comparison with the usual one - the device of the motor is such that it does not use brushes, the movement of the rotor is due to exposure to electromagnetic fields.
Principle of operation
The fact is that the inverter (converter) monitors the engine speed. This is a very useful device, which is responsible for the most important process of converting AC to DC, as already mentioned.
This principle of operation not only allows you to adjust the number of revolutions of the drum with increased accuracy, but also has its pros and cons, which will be discussed later in the article.
Also, such a fundamentally new type of motor operation prevents periodic breakdowns of the unit and the failure of its individual parts. For example, LG direct drive washing machine and inverter motor has an impressive guarantee - up to 10 years.
Advantages and disadvantages of this technological solution
To understand which motor in a washing machine is better - inverter or standard, let us consider the main advantages and disadvantages of this mechanism. Well, let's start with the positive points, which are worth noting a lot:
- Increased efficiency, due to which the energy required for rotation of the rotor of the engine is significantly reduced. The fact is that this became possible due to the fact that in the design of the motor there are no elements (brushes) rubbing against each other.
- This direct drive motor is much more economical and more profitable than the standard.
- The inverter motor does not require additional periodic maintenance, as is the case with the brush motor. Now there is no need to monitor the condition of the brushes and subsequently replace them with new ones.
- This engine has an extended service life, it is more durable than its outdated younger brother.
- Washing machines with such an engine instantly reach the required number of revolutions and more precisely control them throughout the entire washing process.
It is also worth considering separately such parameters as the level of power consumption and noise emitted by the machine. For most people, these options when choosing a washing machine are a priority when a small child is in the house. Undoubtedly, the inverter motor is much quieter in comparison with the standard one. However, as you know, the noise in the washing machine comes not only from the engine, but also from other elements, for example, from the pump and the rotating drum.
Regarding efficiency, in terms of electricity consumed by the motor, there is, of course, savings, but it is not as big as we would like - only 3-5%. As you know, in the washer it is the heating element that consumes the most electricity, and not the motor itself.
Regarding the shortcomings, here one can single out one thing - this is that washing units equipped with inverter motors are much more expensive in price. But it’s also worth considering that if you get a “washing assistant” with an inverter motor, then in the future you will save a lot of money on servicing this unit and replacing the brushes.
Is it worth buying?
To find out the answer for yourself, you need to ask yourself a series of questions, after which everything will be clarified, namely:
- Do you need silence when washing in your house? If you have a baby in your house who needs a day's sleep, then it makes sense to choose an inverter washer with direct drive. From it there will be a minimum of noise that you will not even notice. Also, if you prefer silence or do remote work at home, which requires a certain concentration, this choice will be justified.
- Power saving Naturally, 3-5% are not such numbers, thanks to which it will be possible to save a lot. However, if you look at this issue in the longer term, then the savings are obvious, because you will not use the washing machine for a year or even two.
- Do you need longevity? Perhaps the majority will answer positively to this question. As you know, a washing machine is a rather expensive purchase, and I would like this unit to last as long as possible without breakdowns and repairs. In this regard, it would be better to choose a “washing assistant” with an inverter motor.
- Is intense spin needed? Agree, it is more pleasant when after washing and spinning things are in an almost dry state. The inverter machine squeezes things well, thanks to the increased rotation speed of the drum.
If you answered “Yes” to all of the above questions, then the choice is obvious.
How to handle the machine correctly?
This technique requires proper handling, its service life depends on it. In particular, the surface of the floor where the machine is installed must be level. This will determine the noise level emitted by the unit and its stable operation.
Selectable washing powder should be marked “Automatic”. This will help prevent damage to the unit in the future, otherwise the equipment may break.
Between frequent washing, the equipment needs a rest, at least a few hours. This will help to avoid overheating of the motor and system pump.
In custody
Well, what type of engine in the washing machine to choose, of course, is up to you. In our opinion, the choice is obvious. Inverter motors have many advantages, which are difficult to argue with. Not for nothing that the world's leading manufacturers of washing machines give preference to precisely these motors, thanks to which it is possible to significantly improve the quality of manufactured household products.
“A washing machine with an inverter engine is capable of converting alternating current to direct current - this is the main, but not the only feature of this unit.” Is an example when they try to explain something without understanding.
In an inverter motor, the stator windings are controlled by the controller, in contrast to the collector motor. Moreover, due to the larger rotor arm and the number of windings, it became possible to make the engine with a larger moment, which made it possible to abandon the mechanical lowering drive (belt and 2 pulleys) and increase the control capabilities of the drum rotation, since the controller “knows” the current position of the rotor and can position it quite accurately.
They write about pros everywhere, I'll write about the cons:
1. silence is conditional. the volume level depends on the load, while the sound is specific, high-frequency. we can only talk about the fact that cars with an infertor drive drive are somewhat quieter than collector ones with a belt drive.
2. write about reliability in comparison with the collector motor, let's think: from the car removed: drum bearing, 2 pulleys, belt, engine brushes. added: sophisticated engine control controller. replaced a cheap collector motor with an expensive brushless motor, and now the load from the drum falls on not a freestanding bearing that can be replaced, but on the bearing of the engine itself. In total, if any element fails (and they only become more complicated), the repair of the machine will become inappropriate.
Somehow all this is too unreliable, simpler - better, I can repair my old indesit without any special expenses in most cases. I think that while the technology is brought to mind, another time will pass.
Now in all washers almost inventory stands. Even in our indesit and I will say that this is really a step forward.
And for me the choice was obvious. Therefore, whirlpool was bought on an inventory motor. Complete silence while washing!