This section provides an overview for frequency converters as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 30 frequency converter manufacturers and their company rankings. Here are the top-ranked frequency converter companies as of November, 2024: 1.Ametek IntelliPower, Inc., 2.Badger Meter, Inc., 3.CAES.
Table of Contents
A frequency converter is a device designed to convert an input frequency to an arbitrary output frequency.
Frequency, also referred to as the frequency of oscillation, represents the number of times an electric current or radio wave completes a full cycle per second. Electric currents can be either direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC). Typically, power sources in homes and factories supply AC at a fixed frequency.
However, there are situations where specific machines or equipment require a different frequency than what the power supply provides. In such cases, frequency converters are employed to transform the incoming current to the desired frequency.
Frequency converters find applications when there is a need to modify frequencies. For instance, this is relevant in home appliances and industrial settings.
Regions around the world may have different standard frequencies for their power supply. For example, Eastern Japan uses a 50 Hz frequency, while Western Japan uses 60 Hz. To ensure compatibility, frequency converters are installed to enable the use of electrical devices in regions with different frequency standards.
Furthermore, certain machine tools may require power supplies with lower or higher frequencies than the standard 50 Hz or 60 Hz, necessitating the use of frequency converters.
Frequency converters achieve their function by utilizing both inverters and converters.
An inverter is a device that transforms DC into AC, while a converter is a device that changes AC into DC.
The converter circuit initially converts the incoming AC into DC. Since AC is a sinusoidal wave with positive and negative values, the converter circuit uses diodes to perform full-wave rectification, ensuring that both positive values are extracted.
Next, the extracted current passes through a capacitor. The capacitor's role is to smooth the current by repeatedly charging and discharging, resulting in a continuous and stable DC.
Subsequently, the current proceeds through an inverter circuit, which generates an AC with the desired frequency. This is achieved through the use of transistors within the inverter circuit, allowing for the adjustment of the ON/OFF switching interval, which, in turn, varies the output frequency.
Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) is a common technique employed in inverter circuits. PWM controls the output by managing the ON/OFF ratio of switches, offering advantages such as reduced power consumption and compactness. In an inverter circuit, the direction of current flow through the load is reversed when the switch is toggled ON/OFF. This technology, known as switching technology, is essential for generating alternating current.
One of the PWM control methods involves triangular wave comparison. In this method, a sine wave of the desired frequency (AC) is compared with a high/low triangle-shaped wave known as a carrier, using an operational amplifier. When the sine wave exceeds the carrier, the switching control signal is set to ON. Conversely, when the sine wave falls below the carrier, it switches to OFF. This comparison is repeated to produce a switching control signal, resulting in a pulse wave output.
AC voltage is supplied by switching DC using semiconductor switching devices like thyristor.
The thyristor, also utilized in frequency converters, consists of a diode with a gate terminal. The diode permits the flow of electricity in one direction only.
The gate terminal's role is to control the opening and closing of the electrical circuit. When combined with a diode, it enables control over the direction and output of the current.
A device capable of withstanding high voltages and possessing the required electrical capacity is known as a valve or rectifier. It is created by connecting several thyristor elements in series or parallel.
While earlier thyristor valves used air-insulated wind-cooling or oil-insulated oil-cooling systems, modern systems often employ air-insulated water-cooled systems, which use large-capacity thyristor elements to efficiently handle high-power applications.
*Including some distributors, etc.
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Badger Meter, Inc. was founded in 1905 and based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Badger Meter is a manufacturer and marketer of flow measurement, quality, control, and communication solutions in the United States and globally. Badger Meter serves several industries including water treatment, water distribution, aviation, concrete production. Badger Meter offers utility water solutions and commercial & industrial solutions product segments. Together they include products such as meters, software, diagnostics, and quality monitoring.
Mercury Systems is a manufacturer of advanced solutions for a wide range of applications, including aerospace and defense, cybersecurity, radar and electronic warfare. Established in 1981, the company is headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts, and has operations across the United States and internationally. Their products include secure processing systems, embedded computing and processing solutions, memory, storage devices, radio frequency and microwave components. One of their achievements is their inclusion in the Fortune 1000 list of America's largest companies. In 2020, they were also named one of the World's Most Ethical Companies by the Ethisphere Institute for the fourth year in a row.
CAES, established in 1934 in Arlington, Virginia, USA, is a manufacturer of mission critical electronic equipment. The company specializes in the design and manufacture of space radar, electronic warfare, and mission-critical electronic devices and technology. It holds ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ROHS and US government certifications. Its product varieties include advanced microwave and RF (radio frequency) technologies, integrated circuits, and electronic systems, offering pros such as enhanced signal processing, communication capabilities, and electronic warfare functionalities. It serves a broad range of industries, including aerospace, defense, and telecommunications for the advancement of mission-critical operations.
Ametek IntelliPower, Inc., founded in 1988 and located in Orange, California, is a manufacturer of uninterruptible power systems and frequency/voltage conversion solutions. The company’s diverse range of products includes power conditioners, frequency converters, power distribution units, external battery modules, and external battery chargers. These products are used across industries to provide backup power, protect sensitive equipment, and ensure uninterrupted operations during electrical outages or fluctuations. The company’s products play a crucial role in maintaining the stability of electrical power in applications, including data centers, industrial facilities, and laboratories.
Power Systems & Controls (PS&C) was incorporated in 1965 in Virginia as a manufacturer and supplier of power conditioning systems. The company manufactures Static (Solid State), Rotary, and Hybrid equipment which includes UPS, DC Power supplies and inverters, and Frequency Converters along with Monitoring, Control, and Power Conditioning Products. They also provide enclosures and shelters such as Living Quarters, Data Centers, Equipment shelters, and Modular Shelter solutions. Industries such as Research and Test Labs, Manufacturing Plants, Universities, and Training Institutes, and places like Airports, Hospitals, and Commercial Facilities utilize the products manufactured by PS&C.
Myers Emergency Power Systems founded in 1950 in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania is a designer and manufacturer of backup power systems catering to emergency lighting, rail and transit, cable network, and traffic markets. The product range includes centralized and mini inverters, converters, and backup systems. Beyond product offerings, the company provides comprehensive support, including testing, installation, and maintenance services, ensuring the reliability and functionality of its backup power solutions in critical applications.
FCX Systems Inc., since 1987, is a manufacturer of frequency converters and diesels ground power units in Morgantown, WV. The company produces DC power suppliers, ground power units, pre-conditioned air, frequency converters, and custom power converters for laboratory, industrial, environmental, military, and shore power applications. It is ISO 2001:2015 certified and was presented with the E Star Award for Exports by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker in Washington, DC.
Exeltech, founded in 1990 and based in Fort Worth, Texas, is a manufacturer and designer of pure sine wave inverters. The company’s products include XP series inverters, ICX chargers, MX series inverters, frequency converters, and XP series inverters. These products are used in the electronics, automotive, government agencies, and industrial industries. The company also provides backup power for the communications room in every U.S Embassy. It has earned the RoHS certificate of compliance, TUV-TL900 certificate, Certificate of conformity, and Conflict Minerals compliance.
Ectron Corp. is an American manufacturer of data acquisition and calibration instruments that was established in San Diego, California in 1964. The company produces various sensor simulators including thermocouples and pressure transducers, as well as simulators, amplifiers, data loggers, transmitters, and calibrators. These are critical in industries whose processes require precise measurement and control of data, such as in automotives, aerospace, energy, and defense. Ectron Corp. has served client companies and institutions such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), ExxonMobil, and NASA.
NuWaves RF Solutions was established in 2000 and is headquartered in Middletown, Ohio, USA focusing on designing, developing, and supplying RF (Radio Frequency) products and engineering services. The company specializes in RF and microwave solutions and offers various RF products, including Power amplifiers, RF filters, Frequency converters, RF switches, and RF transmitters for enhanced RF communication and signal processing capabilities. Its customers include government agencies and defense contractors for enhanced communication systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and radar systems Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), research institutions, and commercial enterprises also benefit from wireless connectivity, automation, and IoT applications.
Pepperl+Fuchs, Inc. was founded in Mannheim, Germany in 1945 developing the forerunner of the proximity switch. Pepperl+Fuchs continues to develop proximity sensors as well as other industrial sensors including ultrasonic sensors, rotary encoders, positioning systems, display and signal processing, vibration monitoring, industrial communication, and signal processing as well as related accessories and software. Explosive protection products include safety barriers, surge protection, wireless solutions, HMI systems, power supplies, electrical explosion protection equipment, level measurement, and related software.
Satellink, Inc., situated in Garland, Texas, has been a supplier of low noise linear amplifiers, frequency converters, and special receiving equipment since 1982. The company produces amplifiers for various MILSATCOM Programs and special applications, including classified programs, NASA projects, and radio astronomy applications. Their amplifiers ranges from cryogenically cooled, thermoelectric cooled, to uncooled ambient units. These products are essential in facilitating seamless connectivity in remote environments, enabling data transmission, voice communication, and IoT connectivity via satellite. They operate a quality management system that complies with the requirements of BS EN ISO 9001:2015.
Spotwelding Consultants, Inc. was established in 1983 and based in Rowlett, Texas. The company is a welding consultant and distributor of new and used resistance welders to customers across the United States and many countries overseas. The company also provides rebuilding, tooling, and customization services for customers’ welding equipment and machinery. The company’s primary lines are spot welding equipment which includes maintenance and quality control devices, and resistance soldiering products including soldering irons and resistance soldering systems.
Rinco Ultrasonics is based in Romanshorn, Switzerland, and is a manufacturer of ultrasonic cutting and welding machines that was established in 1976 following the merger of Rinco AG and Ultrasonics AG. The company produces ultrasonic cutting machines for precision cutting of synthetic textiles or food products, ultrasonic welding machines for joining thermoplastic materials, and ultrasonic atomizers for creating fine water droplets in humidification or coating operations. It also offers related components for integrated ultrasonic technology into automated systems or machine lines. The company’s products are mainly used in the automotive, textiles, and food processing industries.
Watanabe Electric Industry Co. Ltd. are manufacturers of measurement and control instruments since 1940 in Japan. The company deals in signal converters, digital panel meters, non-contact meter relays, and electric current recorders. The signal converters are used to isolate and convert signals to prevent current ground loops, protect from external noise, signal boosting, and more. Digital panel meters also have various applications such as filter clogging monitors, weight measurement, conveyor rotation speed management, and many other uses. The equipment is known for its accuracy and stability while being in use.
CNC-STEP GmbH & Co. KG is a manufacturer specializing in CNC machinery that is headquartered in Germany. Established in 2004, the company caters to sectors such as Manufacturing, Woodworking, Metalworking, Prototyping, and Engineering, among others. Its product range includes CNC Routers, Engraving Machines, Laser Cutters, Plasma Cutters, and 3D Printers. These precision-engineered solutions work in automating manufacturing processes, material shaping, and rapid prototyping across applications in industries that demand advanced CNC machinery for efficient production and fabrication purposes.
Powersolve Electronics Ltd., founded in 1987, is a British manufacturer based in Newbury, Berkshire, engaging in the power supply sector. Certified with ISO 9001:2015, the company offers a range of standard and custom power supply products, including industrial converters and inverters, power modules, and switching regulators. It also produces batteries and battery charges, current limiters, and power adaptors. The company offers converters tailored for the medical industry and rail-mounting power supplies compliant with Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN) standards.
ADTEK ELECTRONICS CO. LTD. is an ISO 9001 certified manufacturer of power meters founded in 1990 and based in New Taipei City, Taiwan. The company's products include various process indicators, power measurement devices, and signal converters. It also offers energy management system software, along with OEM/ODM, engineering, and customization services for clients with unique project requirements. The company's products are mainly used in the power generation and distribution sectors, with additional applications in industrial manufacturing, building automation, and environmental protection.
Analytic Systems Ware Ltd., founded in 1976 and located in Vancouver, Canada, is a designer and manufacturer of standard and custom electronic power conversion products and accessories. The company’s diverse range of products includes inverters, voltage converters, power supplies, frequency converters, and battery chargers. These products have diverse applications across industries, including marine, automotive, renewable energy, telecommunications, and industrial settings. The company’s products play a vital role in providing power solutions, voltage and frequency conversion, and battery management for a range of electronic and electrical systems, ensuring compatibility and efficiency in applications.
Analytic Systems is a manufacturer of power conversion systems and equipment established in 1976 and based in British Columbia, Canada. The company offers power supplies (PSUs) for providing stable alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) power, and voltage converters for conversion between a range of voltage levels. It also offers battery chargers for charging different battery types. The company’s products are commonly used in the electrical engineering, industrial automation, and construction sectors.
Texas Instruments Incorporated was founded in 1930 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas. Texas Instruments is a producer of high tech equipment for industrial, automotive, personal electronics, communications equipment industries. Texas Instruments designs, manufactures, and sells semiconductors to electronics designers and manufacturers in the United States and internationally. Texas Instruments operates in two segments: analog and embedded processing. The Analog segment offers power products, including battery-management solutions, DC/DC switching regulators, power switches, linear regulators, voltage references, and lighting products. The Embedded Processing segment offers microcontrollers that are used in fields such as electronic equipment and digital signal processors for mathematical computations.
Nova Electric, founded in 1966 and headquartered in Bergenfield, New Jersey, USA, is a designer and manufacturer of rugged power conversion equipment. The product range includes pure sinewave DC-AC inverters, solid-state frequency converters, and rugged UPS systems. These power solutions are tailored for critical applications in military, industrial, and commercial sectors, because of robustness and performance. The company is a supplier of power conversion solutions, especially in railway applications, offering rail inverters, subway DC AC inverters, third rail inverters, and PTC power supplies that can be ruggedized to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
SEC America Corp. (SECA) is an American manufacturer of power conversion equipment that was established in South Burlington, Vermont in 1991. The company’s product portfolio includes various voltage converters, inverters, frequency converters, transformers, and chargers. Aside from its products, it also provides design, engineering, testing and certification services for unique customer projects. SECA products are used by clients in a wide range of industries, including in the construction, aviation, medical, and military sectors.
Piller, Inc., established in 1909 and based in Osterode/Harz, Germany, is a manufacturer and supplier of uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems and ground power systems. The company's product range includes UB-V electrically coupled UPS, containerized UPS, stabilizers, static transfer switches, and kinetic energy storage. These products ensure power provision and protection. They serve industries such as data hosting & IT, airports and aviation, banking & finance, and energy. The company offers services such as support, a network of technicians, global support in over 50 countries, and round-the-clock service availability.
Absopulse Electronics Ltd., established in 1982 and based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, is a credited manufacturer and supplier of heavy-duty switch-mode power supplies. The company's product lineup includes switch-mode power supplies such as DC-DC converters, AC-DC power supplies, sine-wave inverters, phase & frequency converters, and battery chargers. Catering to industries such as railway, industrial, automation, power utilities, and telecommunications, these products are pivotal for applications ensuring efficient power in various challenging environments. The company's services include custom, semi-custom, and standard power supply solutions.
Layer Electronics is a manufacturer of electronic systems and components established in 1967 and based in Sicily, Italy. The company’s products are designed to generate, store, and facilitate the flow of energy. This includes frequency converters, industrial uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units, and wind generators. It also offers additional commissioning, installation, and maintenance services to its customers with unique project specifications. The company chiefly serves clients in the oil and gas, renewable energy, and the military sectors.
Amp-Line Corp. is a manufacturer of standard as well as specialized linear power supplies and amplifiers established in 2008 and based in West Nyack, New York, USA. The company’s products include power amplifiers used for military and aerospace testing applications, linear power suppliers for industrial manufacturing and automation facilities, and frequency converters for simulating power on aircraft for the aerospace industry. The company’s products are commonly used in the defense and aerospace industries, as well as in industrial manufacturing facilities.
Jeumont Electric was founded in 1898 and is headquartered in Jeumont, France is a manufacturer and supplier specializing in high-power electric machines and auxiliary equipment. The company offers an extensive product catalog, including permanent magnet generators, asynchronous machines, and low-voltage converters among others. Additionally, it also extends services like machine asbestos removal, inductive power transmission, and renovation and reconstruction. These products find applications in electric motors, renewable energy, and automotive industries.
K.C.C. Scientific, established in 2011 in Broomfield, Colorado, is a manufacturer and supplier of clean power solutions for electronics worldwide. The company helps in product invention and development in several electromechanical, electro-optic, and high-tech industries. The safety wall adapter that converts D.C. from A.C. eliminates noise, surges, and power distortion from the line, keeping devices up and running. Converter parameters are controlled to support timing appliances, industrial electronics, medical tools, clocks, and turntables power ratings.
Classic Automation based in Webster, New York is a parts distributor and repair servicer for installed controlled systems, drives, and servo motors, as well as a purchaser of well-maintained surplus systems. Parts that Classic Automation distributes and repairs include DcS, PPLC, and CNC control systems, panel controllers, HMI panels, display panels, drives, encoders, resolvers, and power supplies. Classic automation also offers hard drive repair services and support for customizing functionality in Panelicity controllers.
Ranking as of November 2024
Derivation MethodRank | Company | Click Share |
---|---|---|
1 | Ametek IntelliPower, Inc. |
8.3%
|
2 | Badger Meter, Inc. |
7.5%
|
3 | CAES |
6.3%
|
4 | Mercury |
4.6%
|
5 | Myers Emergency Power Systems |
4.4%
|
6 | FCX Systems Inc. |
4.4%
|
7 | Exeltech |
4.4%
|
8 | Power Systems & Controls, Inc |
4.4%
|
9 | CNC-STEP GmbH & Co. KG |
4.1%
|
10 | Ectron Corp. |
3.9%
|
Derivation Method
The ranking is calculated based on the click share within the frequency converter page as of November 2024. Click share is defined as the total number of clicks for all companies during the period divided by the number of clicks for each company.Number of Employees
Newly Established Company
Company with a History
*Including some distributors, etc.
*Including some distributors, etc.
Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
---|---|---|
United States of America | 13 | 59.1% |
Germany | 2 | 9.1% |
Canada | 2 | 9.1% |
Switzerland | 1 | 4.5% |
Japan | 1 | 4.5% |
United Kingdom | 1 | 4.5% |
Taiwan | 1 | 4.5% |
Italy | 1 | 4.5% |