JM> So this is a variable speed direct drive and the best of both ideas
JM> without the need for an expensive special generator, no?
 
JD>Price a motor that is wound to take advantage of variable speed drives 
then add
JD>in the VSD cost.
 
Joe,
 
The cost of AC Variable Frequency Drives has been dropping rapidly since the
early '80's when they became widely available in the 1hp to 30hp range.  The
cost of a replacement 15hp drive, once $15,000, is now around $2000.
Small and fractional hp drives are under $1000 and start at a few hundred.
Inverter duty motors are more expensive than standard motors but are
generally only needed in severe duty.  Most industrial users employ
standard motors w/ VFD's.
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