Measurement of a variable frequency drive loss and efficiency using both calorimeter and powermeter

Variable frequency drive efficiency plays an important role in green energy applications. However, how to accurately measure drive loss and efficiency is still a question to the industry. This paper reviews the powermeter method, calorimeter method, and factors that affect accuracy. After a calorimeter is constructed and calibrated, a variable frequency drive is tested using both methods. Test results are compared and uncertainty analysis is given.