ATV61HD18M3X - Speed drive - SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC

Schneider frequency drive ATV61HD18M3X - Altivar 61

The ATV61HD18M3X frequency drive belongs to the Altivar 61 range from SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC. Designed to control three-phase asynchronous motors, it is primarily aimed at pumping and ventilation applications where speed regulation helps optimise energy consumption and stabilise processes. This model supports motors of 18.5 kW (25 HP) on a 200-240 V three-phase supply. It is supplied without an integrated EMC filter and has an IP20 protection rating, which implies installation inside an enclosure or in a controlled environment. In industrial B2B environments, it meets requirements for service continuity, reduction of hydraulic shocks and limiting mechanical stresses during start-up and stop. The product has been discontinued since December 2020, with a end of service announced for January 2025. However, it remains widely fielded, making it a preferred replacement option to maintain existing equipment, secure spare parts stocks and plan retrofit actions with a managed technical risk.

Technical specifications

• Manufacturer reference : ATV61HD18M3X
• Range : Altivar 61
• Manufacturer : SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC
• Type : Variable speed drive for asynchronous motors
• Supply voltage : 200-240 V three-phase
• Motor power supported : 18.5 kW (25 HP)
• EMC filter : not integrated
• Protection rating : IP20
• Recommended applications : pumping and ventilation
• Weight : 19,1 kg
• Lifecycle status : discontinued 12/2020, end of service 01/2025

Overview of the Altivar 61 range

The Altivar 61 series is designed for managing variable torque drives, typically fans and pumps in the water, HVAC and industrial utilities sectors. It stands out for an implementation focused on process performance, reducing mechanical stress on rotating parts, and efficient use of asynchronous motors. In operation, speed modulation allows precise adjustment of air or water flow to actual demand, limiting energy losses associated with purely mechanical control elements. In architectures controlled by a programmable logic controller, the Altivar 61 integrates reliably to ensure stable, reproducible frequency regulation, with standard motor protection functions from the range and simplified supervision depending on the chosen configuration.

• Variable torque loads : frequency adjustment to optimise the operating point of fans and pumps, reducing hydraulic noise and mechanical stress.
• Modernisation of installations : suitable solution for maintaining operational readiness of existing equipment while preparing migration to newer generations when production schedules allow.

The ATV61HD18M3X model fits precisely within this approach, offering a power range and voltage suited to 200-240 V three-phase networks, with an IP20 format favouring integration into an electrical cabinet and control of environmental and EMC conditions.

Industrial applications

Given its characteristics, this device naturally integrates into environments where fine regulation of air or water flow improves process stability, equipment availability and overall energy consumption. Maintenance teams use it as a like-for-like replacement or as part of a controlled retrofit, keeping existing asynchronous motors and the current automation architecture. Common use cases include :

• HVAC systems : ventilation of industrial facilities, air handling units, continuous adjustment of fan speeds.
• Water pumping stations : supply, boosting, sewage pumping, with soft starts to limit water hammer.
• Boosters and hydraulic units : pressure stabilization by controlling motor speed according to setpoint.
• Cooling towers and process cooling : fan speed control to maintain target temperatures with energy efficiency margin.
• Industrial air handling : dust extraction and ventilation, flow adjustment to improve line reliability.

Integration and communication

Integration of the ATV61HD18M3X into an existing automation architecture follows the established practices of the Altivar 61 range. Depending on configuration, control can be local or from a programmable logic controller, with parameter settings handled via the operator interface and the manufacturer's software tools. The range's communication options allow exchange of control and status information over common industrial fieldbuses, subject to the appropriate option cards. This approach facilitates supervision, alarm reporting and speed setpoint adjustments in centralized systems. The IP20 rating requires cabinet mounting, with attention to airflow, clearance distances and the EMC environment. The absence of an integrated EMC filter means EMC compliance of the installation should be checked case by case and additional upstream or downstream devices added if necessary, in accordance with site practices and applicable standards.

When replacing, the 18.5 kW power and 200-240 V three-phase range must be matched with the motor nameplate, upstream protections, cable cross-sections and operating conditions. Mechanical and electrical adaptation within the existing cabinet is a point of attention to minimise line downtime, while validating compatibility of existing control commands and signals. This methodology reduces project risk and secures a rapid restart of installations.

Availability and warranty

As the ATV61HD18M3X reference is discontinued, Standard Exchange Industry offers pragmatic solutions to keep your lines running: refurbished units tested on a bench, exchange units to reduce downtime and repair of your drives where appropriate. Shipping is provided within 24 to 72 hours depending on availability, to over 120 countries. Our units are inspected and delivered with warranty, the duration varying from 6 to 24 months depending on the service selected. Our technical teams support you to validate power-voltage compatibility, anticipate EMC constraints related to the absence of an integrated filter and define the best strategy for like-for-like replacement or retrofit. Contact us to qualify your need, secure your supply and preserve operational continuity.